The Ultimate Guide To Storing Raclette Cheese

Raclette cheese is a Swiss delicacy with a distinct taste and unique melting properties. While it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 months if unopened, consumers often wonder how long it will last and how to properly store it. Proper storage methods are crucial to preserving the rich, savoury taste of raclette cheese, ensuring it remains fresh and delectable for as long as possible.

Raclette cheese storage methods

Raclette cheese is a semi-hard cow's milk cheese known for its unique melting properties and smooth texture. It is native to the Swiss Alps but is also produced on the French side of the Alps, as well as in the US. Proper storage of raclette cheese is essential to preserve its authentic flavour and extend its shelf life. Here are some storage methods to keep your raclette cheese fresh and delicious:

Choosing the Right Place:

Ideally, raclette cheese should be stored in a ripening cellar, where the temperature is maintained at 12°C with a humidity level of 92%. However, most people don't have access to a ripening cellar at home, so the refrigerator is the next best option.

Refrigerator Storage:

The refrigerator is the most common choice for storing raclette cheese. Keep your raclette cheese in the refrigerator, ideally at a temperature between 35-40°F (about 4°C). Wrap the cheese in cheese paper, wax paper, or parchment paper instead of plastic wrap to allow it to breathe and prevent excess moisture. You can also use aluminium foil to prevent moisture loss and preserve its creaminess, but avoid paper towels as they may alter the delicate taste.

Long-Term Storage Methods:

If you plan to keep your raclette cheese for an extended period, there are a few options:

• Wrap the cheese in a damp cloth to extend its shelf life by up to a week.
• Vacuum-pack half a wheel of cheese after lightly scraping the rind to preserve its aromas. This method can extend the shelf life by up to 40 days.
• Freeze your raclette cheese as an alternative option. Wrap the cheese carefully in aluminium foil and vacuum-pack it to preserve its freshness. Mark the date and type of cheese for accurate tracking. Properly preserved, raclette cheese can be stored in the freezer for up to six months, although its texture may change slightly after thawing.

Storage Tips:

• Regularly unwrap and "face" the cheese to extend its shelf life.
• Wipe the cheese face with vinegar to prevent mould without affecting its taste.
• If mould forms on hard or semi-hard cheeses like raclette, cut off at least 1 inch below and around the mouldy spot.
• Store your raclette cheese in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.
• Once opened, it is best to consume raclette cheese within 3-4 weeks.

How long does raclette cheese last unopened?

Raclette cheese is a semi-hard cow's milk cheese known for its unique melting properties and smooth texture. It is native to the Swiss Alps but is also produced on the French side of the Alps, as well as in the US. The ideal storage condition for raclette cheese is in a ripening cellar, where the temperature is kept at 12 degrees Celsius with a humidity level of 92%. However, this option is not always available, so most people opt for refrigerator storage.

When stored in the refrigerator, unopened raclette cheese can last up to 3-4 months. It is recommended to wrap the cheese in wax or parchment paper and place it in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator. This will allow a limited amount of airflow while preventing excess moisture, which can lead to spoilage. It is best to avoid plastic wrap as it can trap moisture and cut off the cheese's air supply, leading to a slimy and mouldy rind.

To further extend the shelf life of raclette cheese, some long-term storage methods can be considered. Wrapping the cheese in a damp cloth can increase its shelf life by up to a week. For even longer storage, up to 40 days, vacuum-sealing half a wheel of cheese after lightly scraping the rind is an effective solution.

Freezing is another alternative for long-term storage of raclette cheese. By wrapping the cheese carefully in aluminium foil and vacuum-sealing it, it can be stored for up to 6 months. However, it is important to note that freezing may alter the texture of the cheese slightly after thawing.

How long does raclette cheese last once opened?

Raclette cheese is a semi-hard cow's milk cheese known for its unique melting properties and smooth texture. Originating from the Alpine regions of Switzerland and France, it has a distinct taste with hints of nuttiness and a slight tang. When it comes to storing raclette cheese, the ideal conditions involve a temperature of 12 degrees Celsius and a humidity level of 92%, which can be achieved in a ripening cellar. However, most people opt for refrigerator storage, where the cheese can retain its freshness and texture at a moderate temperature of around 4 degrees Celsius.

To prolong the shelf life of raclette cheese, it is essential to choose the right wrapping material. Cheese paper or wax paper is highly recommended as it allows the cheese to breathe and prevents excess moisture buildup, which can lead to spoilage. Plastic wrap, on the other hand, should be avoided as it can trap moisture and cut off the cheese's air supply, leading to a slimy and mouldy rind. Wrapping the cheese in a damp cloth can extend its shelf life by up to a week, while vacuum-packing half a wheel can keep it fresh for up to 40 days.

Once opened, raclette cheese should be consumed within 3-4 weeks. However, some sources suggest that it can be safely stored for about four weeks after opening if wrapped properly, and it may even last longer. Freezing is also an option to extend the shelf life of raclette cheese. When properly preserved, it can be stored in the freezer for up to six months. However, it is important to note that freezing may alter the texture of the cheese slightly.

To maximise the shelf life of raclette cheese, it is crucial to follow proper storage guidelines. Store the cheese in the refrigerator, preferably in the crisper drawer, and always use cheese paper or parchment paper for wrapping. Additionally, regularly unwrapping and facing the cheese can extend its shelf life, and wiping the cheese face with vinegar can prevent mould without affecting its taste.

How to identify if raclette cheese has gone bad

When it comes to identifying if your raclette cheese has gone bad, there are several tell-tale signs to look out for. Raclette cheese, like most cheeses, has a relatively long shelf life when properly stored, but it can still spoil if not handled or stored correctly. Here are some detailed instructions on how to identify if your raclette cheese has gone bad:

Start by examining the appearance of the cheese. Fresh raclette cheese should have a slightly glossy surface and a consistent color, which can range from ivory to pale yellow. If you notice any visible mold growth on the surface, it is an obvious sign that the cheese has spoiled and should be discarded. Also, keep an eye out for any discoloration or dark spots on the cheese, as this could indicate the presence of bacteria or mold.

Next, use your sense of touch. Feel the surface of the cheese; it should be smooth and slightly creamy but firm. If the cheese feels slimy, sticky, or excessively dry and crumbly, it has likely gone bad. A significant change in texture is an indication that the cheese is no longer safe to consume.

Another critical indicator of spoilage is odor. Fresh raclette cheese should have a pleasant, mild, and nutty aroma. If the cheese gives off an ammonia-like smell or any other unpleasant, pungent, or "off" odor, it has probably spoiled. This is usually a sign of bacterial growth or the breakdown of fatty acids in the cheese.

Finally, if the cheese passes the visual, tactile, and olfactory tests, you can consider tasting a small amount. Raclette cheese should have a mild, creamy, and slightly savory flavor. Any sour, bitter, or otherwise unpleasant taste is a clear sign that the cheese has gone bad. It is important to note that tasting should be the last resort, as consuming even a small amount of spoiled cheese can lead to foodborne illness.

It is worth noting that proper storage is crucial in prolonging the shelf life of raclette cheese. It should be kept refrigerated at all times and properly wrapped or sealed in its original packaging to prevent moisture loss and the absorption of odors from other foods. Additionally, always use clean utensils when handling the cheese to avoid cross-contamination.

In summary, by regularly examining the appearance, texture, odor, and, if necessary, taste of your raclette cheese, you can confidently identify if it has gone bad. Remember, when in doubt, it is always best to discard the cheese to avoid any potential health risks associated with consuming spoiled food.

Long-term storage methods for raclette cheese

Raclette cheese is a semi-hard cow's milk cheese known for its unique melting properties and smooth texture. It is native to the Swiss Alps but is also produced on the French side of the Alps, as well as in the US.

If stored properly, unopened raclette cheese can last up to 3-4 months in the refrigerator. Once opened, it is best to consume the cheese within 3-4 weeks. There are several ways to extend the shelf life of raclette cheese for longer-term storage.

Firstly, wrapping the cheese in a damp cloth can extend its shelf life by up to a week. For even longer storage, up to 40 days, vacuum-sealing half a wheel of cheese is an effective solution. Before vacuum-sealing, it is advisable to lightly scrape the rind of the cheese to preserve its aromas.

Freezing is another option for long-term storage of raclette cheese. By wrapping the cheese carefully in aluminium foil and vacuum-sealing it, you can preserve its freshness and extend its shelf life by up to 6 months. It is important to mark the date and type of cheese for accurate tracking. Properly preserved, raclette cheese can be stored in the freezer for several months with minimal effect on its flavour and texture. However, it is worth noting that its texture may change slightly after thawing.

When freezing raclette cheese, it is recommended to do so when the cheese is at its optimum stage of maturity. This ensures that its taste qualities are preserved at their best after thawing. Additionally, if you plan to use the cheese in slices, it is best to cut it into slices before freezing.

Frequently asked questions