Reblochon is a soft, creamy cheese made from raw cow's milk. It has a nutty flavour and a velvety rind. It is a popular cheese, but it can be hard to finish a wheel before it goes bad. Freezing is an option to prolong its shelf life, but this can affect the texture and flavour of the cheese. When frozen, the water in the cheese expands, causing the cell walls to break down and resulting in a crumbly or grainy texture when thawed. The flavour can also become muted. However, if you do choose to freeze your reblochon, it can last for up to a month in the freezer.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Freezing | Yes, for up to 1 month |
Defrosting | In the refrigerator for approximately 12 hours |
Storage after defrosting | 4 days in the refrigerator |
Refreezing | Not recommended |
Storage temperature | Below 8°C |
Consumption after opening | Within 7 days |
What You'll Learn
Reblochon cheese can be frozen for up to a month
Reblochon cheese is a deliciously creamy cheese with a rind, made from raw cow's milk. It is a soft cheese with a high water content, which means it doesn't freeze well and will only last for about a month in the freezer. However, freezing is still an option if you want to extend the shelf life of your Reblochon cheese.
When freezing Reblochon cheese, it is important to wrap it well to protect it from the air and moisture in the freezer. Here are the steps to follow:
- Divide the cheese into suitable portions.
- Wrap each portion in cling film, making sure to double-layer it.
- Add a layer of tin foil to each portion for extra protection.
- Place the wrapped portions on a baking tray and put them in the freezer for 2-4 hours until frozen.
- Transfer the frozen cheese portions into a freezer bag and seal it tightly.
- Label the bag with the date and contents and put it back into the freezer.
It is important to note that the texture and structure of the cheese will change after freezing, and it may not be as pleasant to eat on its own. However, it can still be used in cooking, such as melted or in a sauce.
Additionally, timing is crucial when freezing Reblochon cheese. It is best to freeze the cheese when it is just turning ripe and creamy but not overripe. This will give it a better chance to freeze well and maintain its texture and taste.
In conclusion, while Reblochon cheese can be frozen for up to a month, it is important to follow the proper steps for freezing and to be aware of the changes in texture and taste that may occur.
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It's best to wrap the cheese well before freezing
If you want to freeze Reblochon cheese, it's best to wrap it well. This is because Reblochon is a soft cheese with a high water content, which can cause issues when freezing. When cheese is frozen, the water in it expands and can cause the cell walls to break down, resulting in a crumbly or grainy texture when it is thawed.
To prevent this, you should wrap the cheese tightly to keep out as much air as possible. First, cut the cheese into portions or pieces, as this will make it easier to thaw and use later. Then, wrap each portion in cling film, ensuring it is covered with a double layer. You can also add a layer of tin foil for extra protection. Finally, place the wrapped cheese in a freezer bag and seal it tightly.
It is also important to note that the quality of the cheese before freezing will impact its shelf life. The better the quality, the longer it will last in the freezer. Additionally, freezing Reblochon cheese will affect its texture and taste, so it is recommended to use it for cooking, melting, or adding to sauces rather than eating it as is.
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It's best to freeze the cheese when it's just turning ripe
Reblochon cheese is a soft, creamy cheese with a rind made from raw cow's milk. It has a delicate and subtle flavour, with a slight taste of hazelnut. It is best to consume it within seven days of receiving it. However, if you wish to extend its shelf life, freezing is an option.
Freezing reblochon cheese requires careful preparation to ensure it retains its texture and flavour. Firstly, it is important to wrap the cheese well, preferably with cling film and tin foil, to protect it from air and moisture. Then, place the wrapped cheese portions on a baking tray and freeze for two to four hours until frozen. Finally, transfer the frozen portions into a freezer bag, seal it tightly, and label it with the date and contents.
The key to successful freezing is timing. It is best to freeze reblochon cheese when it is just turning ripe and creamy but not overripe. This stage ensures the cheese is at its optimal texture and flavour, giving it a better chance to freeze well. Freezing reblochon cheese when it is just ripe will help maintain its quality during the freezing process.
While freezing can extend the shelf life of reblochon cheese, it is important to note that its texture and structure will change. The cheese may become crumbly or grainy due to the separation of moisture and fats during freezing. Therefore, it is recommended to use frozen reblochon cheese in cooking rather than eating it as is. It is perfect for melting or adding to sauces, enhancing the flavour of various dishes.
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The cheese can be defrosted slowly in the fridge for several hours
When it comes to defrosting Reblochon cheese, it's important to take a slow and gradual approach. This is because the cheese has a high moisture content, and freezing can cause changes in its texture and flavour. To ensure the best outcome, the cheese should be transferred from the freezer to the fridge, where it can thaw slowly and safely.
The ideal way to defrost Reblochon cheese is to place it in the refrigerator for several hours. This slow thawing process allows the cheese to regain its texture and flavour gradually. It is recommended to keep the cheese in its original wrapping or packaging to avoid any contamination or odour absorption during the defrosting process.
The refrigerator is the best option for defrosting Reblochon cheese as it provides a cold and controlled environment. By allowing the cheese to thaw slowly, you minimise the risk of moisture loss and protect its delicate flavour and texture. The fridge also ensures that the cheese remains within a safe temperature range during the entire defrosting process.
It's important to note that the defrosting time may vary depending on the thickness of the cheese. For a thicker piece of Reblochon, it may take more than several hours for it to fully defrost. It is recommended to check the cheese periodically to assess its progress and determine when it has reached the desired level of defrosting.
Once the cheese has defrosted, it should be consumed within a few days. It is not advisable to refreeze Reblochon cheese as it will further affect its texture and taste. Proper storage and timely consumption will ensure that you get to enjoy the cheese's subtle and nutty flavour to its fullest potential.
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Once defrosted, it should be consumed within four days
Once defrosted, reblochon cheese should be consumed within four days. This is because, as a soft cheese, it is more susceptible to bacteria than harder cheeses. In fact, soft cheeses are the types of cheese that go off the quickest.
To defrost reblochon cheese, it is recommended to remove it from its tray and place it on a dish in the refrigerator (between +2° C and + 6° C) for approximately 12 hours.
It is important to note that reblochon cheese should not be refrozen once it has been defrosted. This is because the cheese's structure will have been compromised, and it will not taste as good.
To ensure the best quality and taste of reblochon cheese, it is recommended to freeze it when it is just turning ripe and creamy but not overripe. Additionally, wrapping the cheese well before freezing can help to protect it from freezer burn and other smells.
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Frequently asked questions
Freshly cut reblochon cheese should be eaten within 7 days of receipt.
Yes, you can freeze reblochon cheese for up to 1 month.
Wrap the cheese in cling film and tin foil, then place it in a freezer bag.
It is recommended to defrost reblochon cheese slowly by placing it in the fridge for several hours or overnight.
No, you should not refreeze reblochon cheese as it will affect the structure and taste of the cheese.