Kamil Perry
Getting wax off cheese can be a tricky business, especially when you don't want to waste any of that precious dairy product. While cutting the wax off with a knife is a straightforward method, it can result in bits of wax sticking to the cheese. One innovative solution is to use a vegetable peeler, which efficiently removes the wax coating without sacrificing too much cheese. Another approach is to first cut the cheese into wedges, making it easier to peel off the wax from each individual piece.
Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tool | Vegetable peeler, Sharp-edged knife |
| Technique | Scoring the wax, Cutting the cheese into wedges |
| Temperature | Bring to room temperature |
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$13.95 $14.99
What You'll Learn
Use a vegetable peeler
If you want to get wax off cheese, a vegetable peeler can be a great tool for the job. It is an effective method for removing wax from the exterior of a wheel of cheese, without removing too much of the cheese itself.
To use a vegetable peeler to remove wax from cheese, start by cutting a piece of the wax-covered cheese off the wheel. You can cut a quarter or half of the wheel, depending on how much cheese you need. Then, use the vegetable peeler to carefully peel off the wax from the cut side of the cheese. The vegetable peeler will allow you to remove thin layers of wax, without digging into the cheese.
A vegetable peeler is particularly useful for removing wax from a wheel of cheese, as the curved shape of the cheese can be difficult to trim efficiently with a knife. The peeler will help you to remove the wax without wasting edible cheese.
It is worth noting that this method may not work for all types of cheese. If the wax layer is too thin, or if the cheese has a textured surface, the wax may shred when you try to peel it off.
In addition to removing wax, a vegetable peeler can also be used to slice cheese. It will create much thinner slices than a standard cheese slicer, which is ideal for topping crackers.
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Cut into wedges
If you want to cut a wax-covered cheese into wedges, there are a few methods you can use to remove the wax. Firstly, ensure the cheese is at room temperature. This will ensure the cheese is easier to cut and will allow you to enjoy all the flavour profiles.
One method is to use a sharp knife to cut through the wax. Start by cutting a circle at the top of the wax, then carefully cut around the circumference of the cheese. Make sure to cut through the wax, not the cheese itself. Once you've cut through the wax, you can peel it off. Before cutting the cheese into wedges, clean the knife to remove any remaining wax.
Another method is to use a hairdryer to melt the wax. Hold the hairdryer about 6 inches away from the wax and move it in a circular motion. The wax will melt and can then be peeled off.
A third option is to use hot water. Pour hot water over the cheese, melting the wax, which can then be peeled off. Alternatively, you can wet a towel, heat it up, and wrap the cheese in it. Let it rest for a few minutes, and the wax should come off easily.
Once the wax is removed, you can cut the cheese into wedges. Depending on how much cheese you want to eat, cut a quarter or a half of the wheel, and then cut that piece into wedges.
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Score wax around the top
When it comes to removing wax from cheese, the first step is to carefully inspect the wax for any signs of damage or cracks. If you notice any, handle the cheese with care to prevent further damage to the wax coating. Next, using a sharp knife, gently score the wax around the top perimeter of the cheese. Ensure that you cut deep enough to slice through the wax, but be cautious not to pierce the cheese beneath. This scoring technique will enable you to create a clean break in the wax.
Once you have made this incision around the top of the cheese, use your fingers to gently peel away the wax that you have scored. If the wax feels too thick or difficult to grasp, a helpful trick is to use a clean cloth or paper towel to improve your grip. Continue to carefully peel back the wax until you expose the cheese.
After removing the wax, the cheese should appear firm, with no visible mould or spoilage. It is important to trust your senses of smell and taste to further assess the cheese's safety for consumption. While some cheeses are coated in edible wax, it is generally recommended to avoid eating the wax used to cover most cheeses. Therefore, if you accidentally cut into the cheese while removing the wax, use a cheese cutter or slicer to remove the exposed portion.
Scoring the wax around the top of the cheese is a precise task that requires a steady hand and careful attention. It is a crucial step in accessing the cheese within and ensuring its freshness and integrity. By following these steps, you can effectively remove the wax and enjoy your cheese with confidence.
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Use a sharp knife
Using a sharp knife is an effective way to remove wax from cheese. This method is particularly useful if you want to cut the cheese into wedges or slices. Start by scoring the wax around the top of the cheese, being careful not to cut into the cheese itself. Then, remove the wax "lid" created by the scoring. From here, you can cut the cheese into wedges, making it easy to peel the wax off each piece.
It is important to use a sharp-edged knife for this task. A serrated knife will smear wax into the cheese, making it more difficult to remove. A sharp knife will also help you achieve a clean cut when slicing the cheese, minimizing the amount of cheese that is wasted.
When using a knife to remove wax from cheese, it is inevitable that some wax will stick to the cheese. To avoid ingesting wax, take your time and be as precise as possible when cutting and peeling. Remove any remaining bits of wax with your fingers or a knife before serving or eating the cheese.
While using a sharp knife to remove wax from cheese can be effective, it may not be the best method for all types of waxed cheeses. Some cheeses have a thicker wax coating that can be more challenging to cut through, and there is also a risk of cutting your fingers if you are not careful. Additionally, a knife may not be able to access all areas of the cheese, leaving some wax behind.
For these reasons, some people prefer to use alternative methods, such as a vegetable peeler, to remove wax from cheese. However, if you do not have a vegetable peeler or are confident in your knife skills, using a sharp knife can be a quick and efficient way to get the wax off your cheese.
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Melt wax off
To melt wax off cheese, you can use a hairdryer, a hot towel, or boiling water. Using a hairdryer, you can melt the wax and then peel it off. A hot towel can be used in a similar way, by wetting the towel and heating it in the microwave before wrapping the cheese with it. The wax can also be peeled off after softening with hot water.
When waxing cheese, it is important to remove excess moisture from the cheese before dipping it into the wax. This helps the wax to adhere to the cheese. The wax temperature should be between 160° and 170°F, but it is important to follow the specific instructions for your type of cheese.
The wax can be melted in a double boiler, or crock pot, so that it is not directly over the heat source. The wax can then be brushed onto the cheese in two coats, filling any holes to prevent air gaps.
If you are removing wax from cheese to eat it, the wax can be saved and strained through cheesecloth to be reused.
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Frequently asked questions
Use a vegetable peeler. It removes just enough of the exterior to get the wax off without digging away too much cheese.
A sharp-edged knife is best. Anything serrated will smear wax into the cheese.
First, bring the cheese to room temperature. Then, score the wax all the way around, pretty deeply, avoiding cutting into the cheese if possible. Cut the cheese into six wedges, like a pizza, and it will be easy to peel the wax off each wedge.
Don't melt the wax off with a blow torch or rub it on your thighs like a cricket ball.
