Storing Cheddar Cheese: Long-Term Preservation Techniques For Cheddar

Cheddar cheese is a semi-hard cheese that can be stored in several ways to prolong its shelf life. While it is best to consume cheddar within a few days of purchase, storing it in the refrigerator can extend its lifespan. In this article, we will explore various methods for storing cheddar cheese to ensure its freshness and flavour for as long as possible. From wrapping techniques to optimal storage locations, we will provide you with the knowledge to become a master at preserving this delicious dairy product.

Wrapping: use wax or cheese paper, then plastic wrap

When storing cheddar cheese long-term, it is important to consider the type of wrapping you use. Using the wrong type of wrapping can cause the cheese to dry out or become too moist, which can ruin the flavour and texture.

Firstly, it is important to note that cheddar is a semi-hard cheese. This means that it should be wrapped in plastic wrap or specialty cheese paper, then placed in the crisper drawer of your fridge. It should be used within 7 to 10 days for the best results.

When wrapping cheddar cheese for long-term storage, it is best to use wax or cheese paper, then plastic wrap. The paper layer directly outside the cheese allows it to breathe and release byproduct odours. It also minimises the growth of new bacteria on the surface. The plastic wrap on the outside prevents the cheddar from drying out. If the cheese is only stored in paper, it will dry out quickly.

When wrapping cheddar cheese in wax or cheese paper, it is important to wrap it tightly. Then, seal it with tape or another type of adhesive. This will help to keep the cheese fresh for longer.

It is also important to note that the temperature of your fridge is important when storing cheddar cheese long-term. The ideal temperature for storing cheese is between 40 and 53 degrees Fahrenheit. Most home refrigerators are colder than this, so it is recommended to store cheese in the produce drawer, which is usually slightly warmer than the rest of the refrigerator.

Fridge storage: keep in the produce drawer

If you're planning on storing cheddar cheese in your fridge long-term, the produce drawer (also known as the crisper drawer) is the best place for it. This is because the produce drawer is usually slightly warmer than the rest of the refrigerator, and cheese doesn't like to be too cold. The "perfect" temperature for storing cheese usually ranges between 40 and 53 degrees Fahrenheit, and most home refrigerators are colder than this.

When storing cheddar cheese in the fridge, it's best to wrap it in wax or parchment paper, then add a layer of plastic wrap. This will help to keep the cheese fresh. If you don't have any wax or parchment paper, you can also use cheese paper, butcher paper, or even kitchen paper like wax paper or brown baking paper. The paper layer will allow the cheese to breathe and release odours, while the plastic wrap will prevent the cheese from drying out.

Make sure to store the wrapped cheese in another container for extra protection. You can use Tupperware with holes poked in it or a plastic bag with holes poked in it. The holes are important as cheese is a living thing and needs to breathe.

If you're storing sliced or grated cheddar cheese, it's best to only cut or grate the cheese as you're ready to cook with or eat it. Sliced cheddar cheese should be separated by a piece of parchment paper to prevent the slices from sticking together, then placed in a freezer bag or box. Grated cheese can be stored in a resealable bag or container in the fridge for a week or two.

Freezing: grate and freeze in bags

Freezing cheddar cheese is a great option if you have the space and want to store it long-term. While freezing can affect the texture and flavour of the cheese, it is still a good option to prevent food waste.

To freeze grated cheddar cheese, first grate the amount you would usually consume in a week. Then, place the grated cheese in a freezer bag or an airtight container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag or container to avoid freezer burn. Finally, seal the bag or container and place it in the freezer.

When you are ready to use the frozen cheese, simply take it out of the freezer and add it directly to your dish. There is no need to thaw it beforehand. The frozen grated cheddar cheese can be added frozen to any meal that is ready to bake.

By following these steps, you can effectively store grated cheddar cheese in the freezer for long-term use, ensuring that you always have cheese on hand when you need it.

Soft cheeses: eat within a few days

Soft cheeses, such as ricotta, feta, mozzarella, cottage cheese, and cream cheese, have a high moisture content, making them more perishable than harder cheeses. This means they tend to spoil more quickly and typically have a shelf life of about one to two weeks in the fridge.

If you want your soft cheese to last as long as possible, it's best to buy it right before you plan to consume it. When storing soft cheese, it's important to give it some exposure to air so that it doesn't become too moist. Avoid wrapping soft cheese in plastic wrap or tight, non-porous material, as this can trap moisture and destroy the rind and flavour of the cheese. Instead, wrap it in cheese paper, waxed paper, or parchment paper, which allows the cheese to "breathe". You can also store soft cheese in its original packaging or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, and it should be consumed within a few days of opening.

If you have leftover soft cheese, it's best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for about a week. To maintain the quality and taste of soft cheese, it's recommended to only buy as much as you can consume within a few days.

Hard cheeses: unwrap and re-wrap

If you have bought a large block of cheddar cheese, the first thing to do when you get home is to unwrap it from its plastic wrap. Cheddar is considered a semi-hard cheese, so it should be eaten within a few weeks of opening. If you are not planning on eating it within this time, you can freeze it.

For long-term storage, it is best to wrap the cheese in wax or parchment paper. This will allow the cheese to breathe and prevent it from drying out. Then, add a layer of plastic wrap to protect the cheese. You can also use a reusable container, such as Tupperware, with holes poked in it, or a plastic bag with holes poked in it. The holes are important as cheese is a living thing and needs to breathe.

Store the wrapped cheese in the crisper drawer of your fridge, or in a cold spot at the back of the fridge. The temperature in the crisper drawer is cold and stable, which is ideal for cheese storage. If you are storing cheese in a container, it is a good idea to face the cheese before each use. This involves using a cheese knife to cut off a slice that has been in direct contact with the plastic and then discarding it. This will improve the taste of the cheese.

If you are storing cheese for a very long time, it is a good idea to periodically unwrap and re-wrap the cheese. This will help to prevent the cheese from drying out and developing a plastic-like flavour.

Frequently asked questions