Andy Montoya
Grated cheddar cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, storing it correctly is essential to ensure it remains fresh and tasty. The shelf life of grated cheese can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the packaging and storage method. In this article, we will explore the best practices for storing grated cheddar cheese to maximize its shelf life and maintain its quality. We will discuss the different storage options, including airtight containers, plastic wrap, and freezer bags, as well as provide tips on preventing moisture and maintaining freshness.
How to store grated cheddar cheese
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wrapping | Wax paper, parchment paper, or paper towels |
| Container | Airtight container, zip lock bag, plastic bag, or glass container |
| Temperature | 41 °F (5 °C) or colder |
| Additives | Corn starch, butter, or cheese paper |
| Duration | 3-5 days in plastic wrap, 2 weeks in an airtight container, 6 months at 41 °F (5 °C) or colder |
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What You'll Learn
How to store grated cheddar cheese in the freezer
Cheddar cheese is a hard cheese that freezes well. Freezing cheese is a great way to prevent waste, save money, and always have cheese on hand for your favorite recipes.
To store grated cheddar cheese in the freezer, start by grating a block of cheddar. Place the grated cheese in an airtight container, such as a plastic freezer bag. You can also use its original packaging if it is an unopened bag of pre-shredded cheese. To prevent the cheese shreds from sticking together, add cornstarch to the bag. Use 1 tablespoon of cornstarch per pound of cheese. Once packaged, place the cheese in the freezer.
When you are ready to use the cheese, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw. You can let the cheese thaw overnight in the refrigerator, which will take around 12 to 48 hours. Alternatively, you can leave the cheese at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Once thawed, the cheese is ready to be used in your favorite recipes!
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How to store grated cheddar cheese in the fridge
To store grated cheddar cheese in the fridge, you can follow these steps:
Firstly, it is important to note that the shelf life of grated cheese can vary from a few weeks to months, depending on the cheese's composition, packaging, and manufacturing process. If you have purchased a large block of cheddar, it is best to grate the amount you need for the next 2-3 days to ensure freshness.
When storing grated cheddar cheese, it is recommended to use a combination of paper and plastic wrap. Start by wrapping the cheese in a layer of paper, such as wax paper, parchment paper, or specialty cheese paper. This inner layer of paper allows the cheese to breathe, release odours, and minimise the growth of new bacteria. Then, add a layer of plastic wrap over the paper to provide additional protection and prevent the cheese from absorbing other flavours in the fridge. Make sure that the cheese is completely covered by the paper and plastic wrap.
Label the wrapped cheese with the type of cheese and the date it was grated or purchased. This will help you keep track of its freshness and expiry.
Finally, place the wrapped and labelled cheese in a drawer in the fridge. The drawers provide a more consistent temperature and humidity, preventing the cheese from drying out. The ideal refrigerator temperature for cheese storage is between 35 and 45 °F (2 and 7 °C). Stored this way, grated cheddar cheese can last up to a month in the fridge. However, it is recommended to use the cheese within 7 to 10 days for the best results.
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How to prevent grated cheddar cheese from clumping
Storing grated cheddar cheese without clumping is an easy process. Firstly, it is important to note that grated cheese should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. This is because ziplock bags can cause the cheese to clump together due to the pressure exerted on the cheese at the bottom of the bag.
To prevent clumping, coat the grated cheddar cheese with a thin layer of cornstarch, cellulose, or potato starch. These substances absorb moisture and prevent the cheese from sticking together. Alternatively, you can lightly oil both sides of the grater before grating the cheese to prevent it from sticking.
Freezing grated cheddar cheese is another effective way to prevent clumping and extend its shelf life. The low temperature hardens the cheese, making it impossible for the shreds to stick together. However, freezing may alter the texture of the cheese, so it may not melt as smoothly as fresh cheese. If you choose to freeze your grated cheddar cheese, place it in a bag and freeze it right away. This will make it easier to break apart the cheese when you need to use it.
Finally, it is recommended to wrap the grated cheddar cheese with a layer of plastic wrap or wax paper before storing it in an airtight container. This will further reduce air contact and keep the cheese fresher for longer.
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How to prevent grated cheddar cheese from drying out
Grated cheddar cheese can be stored in multiple ways to prevent it from drying out. Firstly, it is important to note that the refrigerator is the best place to store grated cheddar cheese. The cheese drawer is the best part of the fridge to store cheese, as it has the most consistent temperature and humidity. The drawers in the refrigerator prevent the cheese from getting too cold or dry. The cheese should be stored in a resealable plastic bag or wrapped in plastic wrap, with the air pushed out, to prevent the cheese from drying out. The plastic wrap should be sealed tightly to ensure the cheese shreds do not dry out.
Another way to store grated cheddar cheese is to wrap it in wax paper or cheese paper, and then wrap it in plastic wrap. The paper layer allows the cheese to breathe and prevents the growth of new bacteria on the surface. It is important to note that the cheese should not be tightly wrapped, as this will prevent the cheese from breathing and cause it to dry out.
Additionally, storing the cheese in its original liquid or brine can help to preserve it and prevent drying. The brine can be made by dissolving one tablespoon of salt in three cups of water. However, stronger brine will make the cheese taste saltier.
For longer storage, whole blocks of cheddar cheese can be rinsed with white vinegar and rewrapped at five-to-seven-day intervals. This method is suitable for storing cheese in a cool place, such as a cellar, for years.
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How to tell if grated cheddar cheese has gone bad
Grated cheddar cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to six months. However, it's important to know when grated cheddar cheese has gone bad to avoid foodborne illnesses. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Expiration Date: Always check the "best by" or expiration date on the packaging. It is not recommended to consume cheese past this date.
- Appearance: Changes in appearance, such as discolouration, mould growth, or a slimy/greasy texture, can indicate that the cheese has gone bad. Hard cheeses like cheddar may turn dark or crack due to changes in moisture content and bacterial growth.
- Smell: A strong, rancid, sour, or putrid odour can signify spoilage. If a mild cheese smells strong like blue cheese, it's likely gone bad. Naturally pungent cheeses like blue cheese or Camembert will have a strong ammonia smell when spoiled.
- Texture: Spoiled cheese may feel different, such as crumbly, mushy, or very dry, compared to its usual texture.
It's important to note that soft cheeses tend to spoil sooner than hard cheeses, and unopened cheese can generally be consumed past its printed date if stored properly in the fridge. When in doubt, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard the cheese if you suspect it has gone bad.
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Frequently asked questions
Grated cheddar cheese can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days if wrapped in plastic wrap, and about 6 months if stored in an airtight container at 41 °F (5 °C) or colder.
The best way to store grated cheddar cheese is to wrap it in wax paper or plastic wrap, and then place it in an airtight container or a zip lock bag.
Yes, grated cheddar cheese can be stored in the freezer. Wrap the cheese in wax paper or plastic wrap, and then place it in an airtight container or a zip lock bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.
To prevent grated cheddar cheese from clumping in the freezer, add 1-2 tablespoons of corn starch to the freezer bag and shake vigorously to distribute it evenly.
Grated cheddar cheese may have gone bad if it has an off odor, a slimy or wet surface texture, or a soft texture. Spoiled cheese may also show signs of mold that are not part of the manufacturing process.
