Patrick Oconnell
Ellsworth cheese curds are a delicacy exclusive to Wisconsin and other areas of the upper Midwest. They are made from pasteurized cow's milk and are often called squeaky cheese due to the distinctive sound they make when fresh. The curds can be enjoyed as a snack straight out of the bag, or cooked in various ways, such as frying, microwaving, or adding to recipes like poutine or grilled cheese. In this article, we will explore the different ways to cook and enjoy Ellsworth cheese curds, highlighting their unique taste and texture.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Flavors | Natural, Cajun, Dill Pickle, Hickory Bacon, Hot Buffalo, Ranch, Taco |
| Ingredients | Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Culture, Salt, Enzymes, Natamycin (Natural Preservative), Onion, Garlic, Chili Pepper, Spices, Dextrose, Paprika, Whey, Silicon Dioxide |
| Allergens | Milk |
| Rennet | Vegetarian |
| Texture | Creamy, Squeaky |
| Preparation | Can be eaten as-is, fried, grilled, or microwaved |
| Serving Suggestions | Topping for French fries, salad, charcuterie board, or substitute for shredded cheese |
| Storage | Refrigerate and use cheese paper to prevent drying while maintaining breathability |
| Shelf Life | Exceeds 6 months when refrigerated and unopened |
| Nutrition | High in calcium and protein, no added sugars, no carbs, zero trans fats, gluten-free |
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What You'll Learn
Frying methods
Ellsworth cheese curds can be fried and paired with a beer, some Spotted Trotter Bresaola, and Mitica® Fig Jam. You can also pile them hot on top of fries with gravy for a belly-filling poutine.
To fry the cheese curds, you can use a frying pan or a deep fryer. If using a frying pan, heat a small amount of oil in the pan over medium-high heat. Add the cheese curds to the pan in a single layer and fry for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the curds from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
If using a deep fryer, heat the oil to 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully add the cheese curds to the hot oil and fry for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown. Again, remove the curds from the fryer and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
You can also bread the cheese curds before frying for an extra crispy texture. To do this, set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place all-purpose flour. In the second dish, whisk together an egg and a small amount of water to create an egg wash. In the third dish, add breadcrumbs, and season them with salt and pepper, or any other desired spices.
Take each cheese curd and dip it first in the flour, then in the egg wash, and finally in the breadcrumbs, ensuring that it is evenly coated at each step. Carefully place the breaded cheese curds in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, being careful not to crowd the pan or fryer. Remove the curds from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly before serving.
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Flavour combinations
Ellsworth cheese curds are a delicious snack with a distinctive all-natural milky white colour. They are crafted with only rBST-free milk from 250 family farms across Wisconsin and Minnesota. The longer the cheese remains in its sealed package, the tangier and more enriched the cheddar flavour becomes.
Ellsworth cheese curds are a versatile snack and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some flavour combinations to try:
- Poutine: Fry the cheese curds and pair them with French fries and gravy.
- Salads: Crumble the cheese curds over a salad for a big cheesy flavour.
- Charcuterie Board: Add the cheese curds to a charcuterie board for a fun and tasty appetizer.
- Grilled Cheese: Make a super stretchy grilled cheese sandwich with the curds.
- Buffalo Chicken Dip: Toss some cheese curds into a buffalo chicken dip for added tang.
- Beer: Enjoy the cheese curds with a cold beer for a perfect snack combination.
- Spotted Trotter Bresaola: This cured meat pairs well with the salty, milky flavour of the cheese curds.
- Mitica Fig Jam: For a sweet and savoury combination, pair the cheese curds with fig jam.
- Eggs: Add some cheese curds to scrambled or fried eggs for a tasty breakfast treat.
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Storage
Refrigeration
Refrigeration is key to preserving the freshness and extending the shelf life of Ellsworth cheese curds. When stored in a refrigerator, unopened packages of cheese curds can last for six months or more. It is recommended to refrigerate the cheese curds immediately upon receipt, maintaining a consistent temperature to prevent spoilage.
Packaging
Ellsworth cheese curds are packaged using a unique process that removes oxygen from the bags while keeping the cheese loosely packaged. This packaging method helps to prolong the shelf life of the product. When storing the cheese curds, it is important to keep them in their original sealed package. Over time, the cheese curds inside the sealed package develop a more enriched and tangy cheddar flavor.
Cheese Paper
When storing opened cheese curds, it is recommended to use cheese paper. Cheese paper allows the cheese to breathe while preventing it from drying out. It is important to note that completely cutting off air circulation to the cheese can cause it to suffocate and spoil faster. Therefore, cheese paper is a suitable option for maintaining optimal airflow and moisture levels.
Longevity
The shelf life of Ellsworth cheese curds is significantly influenced by storage conditions. When refrigerated and unopened, the cheese curds can retain their freshness and flavor for an extended period, exceeding six months. However, once the package is opened, the shelf life may vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to air.
Flavor Development
The flavor of Ellsworth cheese curds evolves over time when stored in their sealed package. The longer the cheese curds remain sealed, the more pronounced the cheddar flavor becomes. This natural aging process enhances the taste experience, making the cheese curds even more delicious.
By following these storage guidelines, you can ensure the optimal freshness, flavor, and longevity of Ellsworth cheese curds. Proper storage not only preserves the quality of the cheese curds but also maximizes their delicious taste and texture.
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Reheating
If you're looking to reheat your Ellsworth Cheese Curds, there are a few simple methods you can use to restore their signature squeakiness and delicious flavour. Here are some detailed instructions for reheating these cheese curds:
Microwaving:
Place 5 or 6 cheese curds on a plate, preferably not made of paper. Microwave the curds for a few seconds until the edges are slightly browned. The curds will melt together, creating a delicious, gooey texture. This method is highly recommended by customers who have purchased the product.
Frying:
For a more versatile option, try frying your Ellsworth Cheese Curds. This method is perfect for adding a crunchy texture to your favourite dishes. Fry the curds until they are golden brown and enjoy them as a snack or use them to top off your meals. For instance, you can put them on French fries with gravy for a classic poutine or add them to your buffalo chicken dip for some extra tang.
- To maintain the signature squeakiness of the cheese curds, it is recommended to reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds.
- If you're looking to store your cheese curds, refrigeration is essential. The longer the cheese remains sealed and refrigerated, the more enriched the cheddar flavour becomes.
- When receiving your cheese curds, unpack them and use cheese paper or similar packaging to store them. This helps prevent the cheese from drying out while still allowing it to breathe.
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Health benefits
Ellsworth cheese curds are crafted with rBST-free milk from 250 family farms across Wisconsin and Minnesota. They are also high in calcium and protein, contain no added sugars, no carbs, zero trans fats, and are gluten-free.
The cheese curds are made with the highest quality ingredients, including pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, and natamycin (a natural preservative). This combination of ingredients provides several health benefits.
Firstly, calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, while protein is necessary for muscle growth and repair. The presence of calcium and protein in Ellsworth cheese curds makes them a nutritious snack option.
Secondly, the absence of added sugars, carbs, and trans fats makes these cheese curds a healthier choice compared to other snacks that may be high in these less desirable components. This can be beneficial for individuals watching their sugar or carbohydrate intake or seeking to maintain a healthy weight.
Lastly, the gluten-free nature of Ellsworth cheese curds makes them suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Gluten intolerance can cause digestive issues, so consuming gluten-free products can help alleviate these symptoms.
Preparing the cheese curds is simple. They can be enjoyed as a snack on their own, crumbled over salads, or used as an appetizer or part of a cheese plate. For those who prefer their cheese curds warm and squeaky, simply placing them in the microwave for a few seconds can restore their fresh, creamy texture and signature "squeak."
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Frequently asked questions
You can cook Ellsworth cheese curds by frying them up and pairing them with a beer or piling them onto fries with gravy for a poutine.
To retain freshness, store the cheese curds in the refrigerator in their sealed package. The longer they remain sealed, the more enriched the cheddar flavour becomes.
If you want to increase the squeakiness of your Ellsworth cheese curds, simply microwave them for a few seconds.
Ellsworth cheese curds can be used in a variety of dishes. You can add them to eggs, make a grilled cheese sandwich, or toss them into your buffalo chicken dip. They also work well as a topping for salads or as an appetizer on a charcuterie board.
Yes, Ellsworth cheese curds are a healthy, high-protein, low-carb, and gluten-free snack option. They are crafted with rBST-free milk and are also high in calcium.
