Bushra Griffith
Aging cheese is a crucial step in its production that significantly impacts its flavour and texture. The process requires maintaining a constant temperature and humidity level within a specific range, which can be challenging in a standard refrigerator. However, with adjustments, a basic fridge, wine fridge, or mini-fridge can be used for cheese aging. This involves setting the warmest temperature possible, regularly checking for mold, and using sealed containers with water to regulate humidity. For those with cellars, this can be an ideal natural environment for aging cheese, providing cool and stable temperatures. Additionally, external devices like the Inkbird temperature controller and the Cheese Grotto can help create the optimal conditions for aging cheese at home.
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What You'll Learn
Use a wine fridge with an adjustable thermostat to hit the sweet spot between 50 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit
When it comes to ageing cheese, temperature and humidity are critical factors. While soft cheeses like feta, halloumi, and ricotta can be stored in a standard refrigerator, harder and mould-aged cheeses require specific conditions for maturation. A wine fridge with an adjustable thermostat is an excellent option for achieving the ideal temperature range of 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 13 degrees Celsius).
Wine fridges are specifically designed to maintain temperatures conducive to cheese ageing, and their adjustable thermostats allow for precise control within this range. This feature is essential, as different cheeses have specific temperature requirements, and deviations can impact the final product.
For those with limited space or smaller batches of cheese, a mini-fridge can be modified to serve the same purpose. One effective method is to replace the original thermostat with an electronic one, allowing for better temperature regulation. Additionally, placing a tray of water on the bottom shelf can help manage humidity levels.
When using a wine fridge for cheese ageing, it is important to maintain hygiene and prevent cross-contamination. Regularly wipe down the shelves with white vinegar, and separate different types of cheeses to avoid unwanted flavour transfers.
To monitor humidity levels, a hygrometer is a valuable tool. While some wine fridges may have built-in humidity regulators, others may require external methods to increase humidity, such as using ripening boxes, wax coatings, or vacuum packaging.
By utilising a wine fridge with an adjustable thermostat, cheese enthusiasts can create the perfect environment for their cheeses to mature, resulting in delicious, high-quality products.
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Maintain a constant temperature between 45 and 58 degrees Fahrenheit
Maintaining a constant temperature between 45 and 58 degrees Fahrenheit (7.2 to 14.4 degrees Celsius) is crucial for the cheese-aging process. This temperature range is cooler than the typical refrigerator temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4.4 degrees Celsius) and requires adjustments to create the optimal environment for aging cheese. Here are some detailed steps to achieve and maintain this temperature range:
Firstly, invest in a suitable refrigerator or cooling appliance. Options include a standard refrigerator, a wine fridge, or a mini-fridge. Consider the size of your cheese batches and the space you have available. A wine fridge or a mini-fridge can work well, especially if you are aging cheese on a smaller scale.
Next, you'll need to adjust the temperature settings on your chosen appliance. Most modern refrigerators have built-in digital thermometers and temperature controls. Familiarize yourself with the temperature settings of your appliance and make the necessary adjustments to reach the desired temperature range. Place a standalone thermometer inside your refrigerator to accurately monitor the temperature. If the temperature reading is higher than desired, turn the fridge temperature down a few degrees and wait 24 hours to see if the temperature adjusts accordingly. Make incremental adjustments until you achieve the target temperature range.
To fine-tune the temperature, consider using an external thermostat for more precise control. This is especially useful if your refrigerator doesn't have a built-in thermometer or if you want more accurate temperature regulation. An external thermostat, such as the Inkbird temperature controller, allows you to set and maintain a specific temperature, ensuring that your cheese ages at the optimal level.
Additionally, you can employ creative solutions to maintain the desired temperature. One approach is to use frozen water bottles to cool the fridge. Replace them twice a day to maintain a consistent temperature. Another method is to utilize a cellar or a cool storage area that naturally maintains a suitable temperature for aging cheese.
By following these steps and maintaining a constant temperature between 45 and 58 degrees Fahrenheit, you can create the ideal environment for aging cheese and develop its desired flavour and texture over time.
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Control humidity levels between 75 and 95%
To age cheese in a fridge, it is important to control the humidity levels between 75 and 95%. The ideal humidity level depends on the type of cheese and its stage in the ageing process. Soft cheeses, for instance, require higher humidity levels of around 90-95% to maintain their creamy texture and prevent excessive moisture loss. On the other hand, hard cheeses can tolerate lower humidity levels, usually between 80-85%, as they have already lost much of their moisture during the ageing process.
To regulate humidity in your fridge, you can try a few different methods. One common approach is to use a tray of water placed on the bottom shelf of the fridge to increase humidity. Another method is to use a hygrometer to measure and monitor humidity levels. This device can be placed inside the fridge to provide real-time data on humidity and temperature conditions. Based on these readings, you can make adjustments to maintain optimal levels.
Additionally, it is important to avoid overfilling the fridge to allow for adequate air circulation. Regular monitoring and adjustments may be necessary to maintain the desired humidity levels. Proper wrapping and storage techniques are also crucial in maintaining the right moisture levels for each type of cheese.
Some fridges come equipped with built-in humidity control features, such as designated drawers or compartments. These humidity control drawers, also known as crispers, work by regulating the airflow to the contents stored within. By adjusting the settings on your refrigerator's humidity controller, you can create the optimal environment for ageing cheese.
Finally, consider the placement of your fridge. If you're using a wine cooler or a standard refrigerator, the location of the appliance can impact humidity levels. Keep it in a cool, dry place, avoiding direct sunlight or heat sources that could affect the internal humidity and temperature conditions.
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Use a hygrometer to measure humidity
When it comes to aging cheese, a hygrometer is a useful device to measure humidity. It's a small, inexpensive device that looks like a thermometer, with a sensor and a dial or digital readout that displays information. Hygrometers can be analog or digital. Analog hygrometers have a dial that indicates the relative humidity of a given space with a needle, while digital hygrometers show this information on an electronic or LCD panel. Digital hygrometers are typically recommended for cheese-making as they tend to be more accurate, easier to read, and easier to calibrate. Many digital hygrometers also measure and display temperature as well as relative humidity.
You can buy hygrometers from hardware stores, discount stores, hobby stores, Amazon, eBay, and other online retailers. They range in price from $1 on eBay to hundreds of dollars at labware websites, but for cheese-making, a good hygrometer can be found for less than $50.
To ensure optimal humidity control for your cheese, it's important to monitor humidity levels regularly. Place the hygrometer at different levels in your cheese cave to detect any variations and keep a log of daily humidity readings to track trends and make informed adjustments.
If your hygrometer senses a relative humidity of below 70%, it’s time to boost the humidity in your cheese storage space. You can do this by introducing a source of moisture, such as a tray of water, a humidifier, or a clay brick that you soak in water and place in your cheese grotto.
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Store cheese in sealed containers in the fridge
When storing cheese in the fridge, it is important to use sealed containers to prevent the cheese from drying out and to maintain humidity. This is especially important if you are making your own cheese and need to control the temperature and humidity conditions for the cheese to mature properly.
One option for storing cheese in the fridge is to use a plastic food container. This will help to prevent the cheese from drying out and can be used in conjunction with a humidity-regulating device, such as a tray of water or buckets of water, to maintain the proper humidity levels. Another option is to use a cheese vault, which is a silicone box with a ridged bottom that allows for air circulation while still keeping the cheese fresh. If you are concerned about excess moisture in the container, you can place a small sugar cube inside, as the cube will absorb the moisture and prevent the cheese from sweating.
It is also important to consider the temperature of your fridge when storing cheese. Ideally, the temperature should be maintained between 11-13°C or 52-55.4°F for the proper maturation of the cheese. If your fridge does not have a built-in thermostat, you can purchase an external thermostat to regulate the temperature. Additionally, if you are using a wine fridge, be aware that the temperature may drift during hot weather, so additional measures may be necessary to maintain the desired temperature range.
When storing multiple types of cheese in the fridge, it is important to use separate containers or compartments to prevent the transfer of aromas and bacteria between cheeses. This is especially important if you are storing strong-smelling cheeses, as the smells can permeate other foods in the fridge. By following these tips, you can effectively store cheese in sealed containers in the fridge, ensuring that it stays fresh and matures properly.
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Frequently asked questions
The ideal temperature to age cheese in a fridge is between 45–58 °F (7–14 °C). The exact temperature depends on the type of cheese.
Maintain humidity levels between 75 and 95%, depending on the cheese. Use a hygrometer to measure the humidity. You can also place a small jar filled with water in the drawer with the cheese to prevent it from drying out.
A wine fridge with an adjustable thermostat is a good option for ageing cheese. You can also convert a standard refrigerator or under-counter small fridge using an external thermostat.
Keep the shelves of your fridge clean by wiping them with white vinegar occasionally. Place the cheese in a sealed container or plastic box to prevent contamination.
