Medlar Cheese: How Long Does It Last?

Medlar cheese is a delicious treat with a long history. But how long does it last? The answer may surprise you! Medlar cheese, made from the pulp and juice of medlar fruit, has a surprisingly long shelf life. In fact, one source claims that it will last almost indefinitely. However, it is always important to use your best judgement when it comes to food safety and to inspect your cheese for any signs of spoilage.

Medlar cheese's shelf life

Medlar cheese is made from the pulp and juice of medlars, which is cooked down and set in moulds. The process of making medlar cheese involves bletting, or allowing the fruit to rot or ferment, until its flesh softens and becomes sweet and toffee apple-like. This step is important as medlars are inedible until they start to decay.

Once the medlars are bletted, they are cooked with water and mashed or pureed, then passed through a sieve or colander to separate the seeds and skin from the pulp. The pulp is then heated with sugar and sometimes spices, lemon juice, or vanilla, and cooked until thickened. The mixture is then poured into moulds and allowed to cool and set.

Medlar cheese has a long shelf life and can last almost indefinitely if stored properly. It is best stored in the refrigerator, where it will keep for several years. Medlar cheese can also be frozen for longer-term storage.

To ensure the longest shelf life, it is important to use sterile containers and utensils when making and storing medlar cheese. This will prevent moulds and bacteria from forming and spoiling the cheese. Additionally, medlar cheese should be kept refrigerated at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to slow the growth of bacteria.

Medlar cheese is a delicious and unique treat that makes a wonderful gift and is perfect for serving with actual cheese, especially sharp cheddar or blue cheese.

How to store medlar cheese

Medlar cheese is a delicious treat, but how do you store it? Well, it's quite simple.

Firstly, you'll want to make sure your medlar cheese is in an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and stop it from drying out. You can use a jar, plastic box, or cheese mould.

Once your medlar cheese is in its container, it's important to store it in the refrigerator. This will help prolong its shelf life. Medlar cheese can last almost indefinitely in the fridge, so you don't have to worry about it going bad any time soon!

If you want to freeze your medlar cheese, that is also an option. Freezing will help it last even longer. Just make sure it is stored at a safe temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below.

When it comes time to serve your medlar cheese, there are a few things you can do. You can simply slice it and serve it as is, or you can sprinkle it with powdered sugar and grated orange zest for a little extra sweetness. It's also delicious served with a sharp cheddar or blue cheese.

So, there you have it! Storing medlar cheese is quite simple and will ensure you can enjoy this tasty treat for a long time.

Best-by dates

Medlar cheese is a unique delicacy, made by cooking down the pulp and juice of medlar fruit, a process that can take upwards of an hour. The resulting mixture is then set in moulds, creating a grainy, sliceable fruit cheese. This cheese is often served with actual cheese, such as sharp cheddar or blue cheese, and can be stored in the refrigerator.

The shelf life of medlar cheese is influenced by factors such as its high sugar content, preparation, and storage conditions. When properly prepared and stored, medlar cheese can last for an extended period. One source mentions that it will last "almost indefinitely" in the refrigerator, while another source with a similar recipe states that medlar cheese should be consumed within three to four years for optimal flavour and texture.

To ensure the longest possible shelf life, it is important to follow proper food safety practices. This includes using sterile equipment during preparation, such as sterilised jars, moulds, and utensils. Additionally, medlar cheese should be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator, ideally below 4°C, to inhibit bacterial growth.

It is worth noting that medlar cheese is distinct from medlar jelly, which is made from the leftover juice after preparing the cheese. Medlar jelly has a shorter shelf life than medlar cheese, typically lasting up to three to four years when stored in properly sterilised containers.

Signs of spoilage

Medlar cheese is made from medlar fruit, which is left to blet (i.e., rot or ferment) until its flesh softens and becomes sweet, acidulated, and toffee apple-like. This process involves leaving the fruit spread out in a single layer on a plate or box for up to three weeks, until it becomes soft and slightly squishy.

Medlar cheese can be stored in the refrigerator and will last almost indefinitely. However, it is important to inspect the cheese for any signs of spoilage before consumption. Here are some signs that your medlar cheese has gone bad:

• Changes in texture: If your medlar cheese develops a slimy or sticky texture, it is an indication of spoilage. The cheese should have a thick, grainy, or fudge-like texture. If it becomes runny or develops excess moisture, it is best to discard it.
• Mold growth: Check the surface of the medlar cheese for any signs of mold. Soft cheeses, such as cottage cheese or cream cheese, should be discarded if mold is present. For hard medlar cheeses, you can cut off at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below the mold spots. However, if the mold covers a large area or the cheese has been stored in unfavorable conditions, it is best to discard the entire cheese.
• Off-odors: Medlar cheese may develop an off-odor, such as a sweaty, chlorine-like, or ammonia-like smell. If the cheese emits an unpleasant or rancid odor, it is best to discard it.
• Color changes: If you notice any significant color changes, such as discoloration or the formation of dark spots, it may indicate the growth of bacteria or mold.
• Taste changes: If you accidentally taste a small amount of medlar cheese that has gone bad, you may experience a bitter or unpleasant taste. This can be a sign of spoilage, and the cheese should be discarded.
• Crystallization: Unlike some aged hard cheeses, medlar cheese should not form crystallized patches. If you notice white specks or crystallization, it may indicate the growth of mold or bacteria.
• Expiration of other ingredients: Medlar cheese often contains additional ingredients such as sugar, lemon juice, or spices. If any of these ingredients have expired or show signs of spoilage, it is best to discard the medlar cheese as well.

It is important to note that even if your medlar cheese does not exhibit any of the above signs of spoilage, it is always recommended to follow safe food handling practices and adhere to recommended storage times. Proper storage conditions, such as maintaining a refrigerator temperature below 40°F (4°C), can help extend the shelf life of medlar cheese.

Freezing medlar cheese

Medlar cheese is a delicious treat, but can you freeze it to make it last longer? The good news is that you absolutely can! Here are some tips and tricks to help you successfully freeze your medlar cheese.

Preparing Medlar Cheese for Freezing

First of all, it's important to note that medlar cheese is best frozen when it's fresh. So, make sure you prepare and cook your medlar cheese before freezing it. Follow your favourite medlar cheese recipe, but don't worry about moulding or shaping it. Instead, focus on getting that delicious thick and jammy consistency.

Once your medlar cheese is cooked, you'll want to let it cool completely. It's important that the cheese is at room temperature before you pop it into the freezer. This will help ensure that it freezes properly and maintains its quality.

Packaging for Freezing

When it comes to packaging, there are a few options to consider. You can use freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave a little bit of space at the top as medlar cheese tends to expand when frozen. You can also use freezer bags, which are great for saving space. Simply place your medlar cheese in the bag, remove as much air as possible, and seal it tightly. If you're using a bag, it's a good idea to double bag it to provide extra protection from freezer burn.

Another option is to wrap your medlar cheese. First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, making sure it's well covered. Then, add a layer of aluminium foil, followed by a final layer of plastic wrap. This method helps protect the cheese from air exposure and freezer burn.

Labelling and Storing

Before placing your medlar cheese in the freezer, don't forget to label it! Include the date it was frozen and the contents. This will help you keep track of how long it's been in the freezer and ensure you use it within a reasonable timeframe.

Now, simply pop your medlar cheese into the freezer! It's best to store it in a consistent, cold part of the freezer, away from the door, to prevent temperature fluctuations.

Thawing and Using Frozen Medlar Cheese

When you're ready to enjoy your medlar cheese, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator. This will help ensure a gradual and safe thawing process. It's best to use your medlar cheese within a few months of freezing, as the quality may start to deteriorate over time.

Once thawed, your medlar cheese may have a slightly different texture. It might be a bit more crumbly or less smooth than fresh medlar cheese. However, it will still taste delicious! Enjoy it as a spread, or pair it with your favourite cheeses for a delightful snack or dessert.

So, there you have it! Freezing medlar cheese is a great way to make this tasty treat last longer. Just follow these simple steps, and you'll be able to enjoy your medlar cheese long after the season ends.

Frequently asked questions