Patrick Oconnell
Cheddar cheese is a hard cheese with a low moisture content and a long ripening process. As such, it does not require refrigeration for safety but will last longer if refrigerated. If you're storing aged cheddar, it's best to keep it in the vegetable crisper of the refrigerator, where the temperature is cold and stable. Cheddar can be stored in wax paper or parchment, and then loosely wrapped in plastic to protect it from the drying air of the fridge. It's important to let the cheese breathe to avoid unpleasant flavours and aromas.
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What You'll Learn
Wrapping and storing
Cheddar is classified as a hard cheese, which means it has a low moisture content. Hard cheeses do not require refrigeration for safety, but they will last longer if they are refrigerated. If you are storing your cheddar in the fridge, keep it in the vegetable crisper, where the temperature is cold and stable.
When wrapping hard cheeses like cheddar, avoid using a tightly wrapped package. This will allow the cheese to breathe without drying it out. Instead, wrap the cheese in a clean sheet of cheese paper, wax paper, or parchment paper. Make sure the cheese is completely covered, then loosely wrap the paper-covered cheese in plastic wrap. You can also buy specialty cheese paper, which is formulated to let the cheese breathe and prevent it from drying out.
If you are using plastic wrap or a plastic bag, "face" your cheese before each use to improve the taste. To do this, use a cheese knife to cut off a slice that has been in direct contact with the plastic, then discard it. You can also add a layer of plastic wrap as additional protection to prevent your cheese from absorbing the flavours of the fridge.
If you have a cool space in your home between 45 to 60 degrees, like a cellar or basement, you can use a Cheese Grotto to store your cheddar. It will keep your cheese at the perfect temperature and can be used to store cheese in your refrigerator for longer-term storage.
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Containers and refrigeration
Cheddar is classified as a hard cheese, which means it has a low moisture content. Hard cheeses can be stored at room temperature, but they will last longer if refrigerated. It is best to keep them in the refrigerator, ideally between 35º and 45º F, in the cheese drawer or vegetable crisper, where the temperature is cold and stable.
When storing cheddar, it is important to allow the cheese to breathe. This means avoiding tight seals, such as plastic wrap, which can trap moisture and promote the growth of undesirable bacteria. Plastic wrap can also let light in, which can oxidize the cheese and create off-flavours. Instead, opt for a reusable container or wrap the cheese in parchment or wax paper, then loosely wrap it in plastic wrap for additional protection. You can also buy specialty cheese paper, which is formulated to let the cheese breathe and prevent it from drying out.
If you are storing sliced or grated cheddar, it can be kept in its original plastic packaging, but it should be used within a few days as the plastic can affect the flavour. If you are storing a block of cheddar, it is best to avoid plastic wrap and use a container or paper wrapping instead.
It is important to note that cheese should not be frozen, as this can negatively affect its texture. Additionally, cheese should be stored away from foods with strong odours, such as onions or melon, as these can affect the flavour of the cheese.
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Temperature and humidity
To maintain optimal temperature and humidity conditions, avoid storing cheese in the main compartment of the refrigerator, where it can be exposed to drying air. Instead, utilise the vegetable crisper or cheese drawer, which provide a more stable and humid environment. If your refrigerator does not have a designated cheese drawer, consider investing in a cheese storage container, such as a Cheese Grotto, which can regulate temperature and humidity more effectively.
It is important to note that cheese should be brought to room temperature about an hour before serving for the best flavour and texture. This allows the cheese to breathe and enhances its taste and smoothness. However, cheddar cheese intended for melting, such as for mac 'n' cheese, can be used directly from the refrigerator without bringing it to room temperature.
Additionally, when storing aged cheddar cheese, avoid freezing it, as this can negatively affect its texture. Cheese is a living food, and freezing can disrupt its delicate balance, impacting its flavour and texture. Instead, store it in a cool, dark, and humid place, such as the vegetable crisper in the refrigerator, to maintain its quality.
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Cheese ageing and lifespan
The ageing process is one of the most important elements of cheesemaking. It allows cheese to develop its full flavour, aroma, and texture. The longer a cheese is aged, the more intense its flavour becomes. Each type of cheese requires a different ageing period, ranging from three months to twelve months or more. For example, softer cheeses like mild cheddar take a shorter amount of time to age, while semi-hard and hard cheeses like sharp cheddar or parmesan require a longer ageing time.
Aging, also known as ripening, breaks down the different components in cheese, including milk proteins, milk fat, and milk sugar (lactose). These factors ultimately determine the flavour and texture of the cheese. The breakdown is caused by enzymes, and how quickly a cheese ripens can be based on its water content, temperature, salt content, and more. Cheese can be aged for several weeks or several years.
To age cheese at home, you'll need to control the temperature and humidity in the location where the cheese is aged, often referred to as a "cheese cave". A regular refrigerator can be used, but it tends to be too dry and cold for optimal cheese ageing. If using a refrigerator, place the cheese in the warmest part and store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. The ideal temperature for ageing cheese is between 52-55°F (11-13°C).
The humidity in the container is usually maintained by the moisture within the cheese. If the humidity is too low, you can add a wet paper towel or a shallow pan of water with a sterilized sponge to the container to increase moisture in the air. The goal is to add moisture to the air, not to the cheese itself. The amount of cheese in the container will also affect humidity levels, as cheese naturally adds moisture to the air as it ages.
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Preventing mould and spoilage
Aged cheddar cheese is a hard cheese with a low moisture content. Hard cheeses are dense and have been aged longer than soft cheeses, sometimes for years. When it comes to storing aged cheddar cheese, preventing mould and spoilage is key to maintaining its characteristic flavour and texture. Here are some detailed, direct, and instructive tips to achieve that:
Firstly, avoid plastic wrap. Plastic wrap can cause condensation, negatively impact the texture, and encourage mould growth by trapping natural odours emitted by the cheese. Instead, opt for wrapping aged cheddar in special cheese paper or parchment paper. These materials allow the cheese to breathe, reducing moisture loss while preventing condensation.
Maintain optimal humidity levels. Cheese needs to retain some moisture to preserve its texture and flavour. An environment that is too dry can harden cheese, while excessive moisture promotes mould growth. Consider using a dehumidifier or humidifier in your fridge to maintain the ideal humidity level.
Store aged cheddar separately from other cheeses. Keep aged cheddar away from soft cheeses like blue cheese, brie, and Camembert to prevent foreign mould growth.
Keep the refrigerator clean. A clean fridge offers better cheese storage. Ensure you clean your fridge regularly to maintain optimal conditions for cheese storage.
Maintain proper refrigeration temperatures. Place aged cheddar in the least cold part of the refrigerator, ideally in the cheese drawer. The ideal temperature range is between 4°C and 8°C (35°F and 45°F). These temperatures prevent the cheese from drying out too quickly, preserving its texture and flavour.
By following these tips, you can effectively prevent mould and spoilage, ensuring your aged cheddar cheese remains in optimal condition.
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Frequently asked questions
Aged cheddar cheese is a hard cheese with low moisture content. It can be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in paper and plastic wrap. It can also be stored in a container to protect it from the drying air of the fridge.
Aged cheddar cheese can last for a few weeks in the refrigerator.
Yes, aged cheddar cheese can be stored at room temperature for up to 7-10 days.
Some tips to keep in mind when storing aged cheddar cheese include:
- Avoid tightly wrapping the cheese, as it needs to breathe.
- Store it in a dark, cool, and humid place.
- Avoid freezing the cheese, as it can negatively affect its texture.
- Label the cheese with the type and date of purchase.
It is not recommended to store aged cheddar cheese in the freezer as it can negatively affect its texture.
