Randy Chandler
White cheddar cheese is a variety of cheese known for its distinctively tangy flavour and firm, crumbly texture. It goes through the same cheddaring process as regular cheddar, but without the addition of colouring. White cheddar cheese can be sharp, which is a term that indicates how cheddar changes in flavour and texture as it ages. The sharpness of cheddar cheese can vary, with mild cheddar melting more easily and consistently, and sharper cheddar melting better when shredded or cut into strips and cooked over low heat.
Characteristics of Sharp White Cheddar Cheese
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Flavour | Tangy, nutty, crisp, bold, rich, creamy |
| Texture | Crumbly, firm |
| Colour | Pale, white |
| Melting | Melts better when shredded or cut into strips and cooked over low heat |
| Age | Minimum of 9 months to over a decade |
| Pairing | Salty meats, crackers, fresh fruit, Pinot Noir, Cabernet |
| Storage | Wrap in wax paper or parchment paper, then put in an airtight plastic bag or plastic wrap; store in the refrigerator |
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What You'll Learn
- Sharp white cheddar is aged for at least 3 years
- It has a nutty, crisp flavour and a crumbly texture
- It is made from cow's milk, using the same process as traditional cheddar
- It is best stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in wax or parchment paper
- It pairs well with fresh fruit, crackers, and salty meats
Sharp white cheddar is aged for at least 3 years
Sharpness in cheddar cheese is a result of the aging process. The longer a cheddar cheese ages, the sharper and nuttier its flavour becomes. Young cheddar, which has been aged for only a few months, has a mild and creamy taste. Sharp cheddar, aged for over a year, has a tangy and robust taste. Lastly, extra sharp cheddar, aged for 18 months or more, has a distinct crumbly texture and is best enjoyed on its own or with a glass of wine.
Sharp white cheddar is aged for at least three years. This extended aging process gives the cheese a much more complex and tangy flavour than mild or medium cheddar. The aging process also affects the texture of the cheese, making it crumbly and extra sharp.
The process of aging cheddar cheese involves wrapping freshly made cheese in cloth and leaving it to rest for a few days. During this time, the cheese begins to release whey and mould starts to grow on the surface. The cheese is then moved to a temperature-controlled room where it will age for anywhere from a few months to several years.
The level of aging depends on individual preferences. When stored and served properly, aged cheddar can be enjoyed for many years. The sharpness of cheddar cheese ranges from mild and mellow to razor-sharp tanginess.
Aged cheddar is not only a delicious treat but also offers health benefits. It is full of protein and calcium, contributing to good bone health. Additionally, aged cheese often contains fewer lactose molecules, making it more tolerable for those who are lactose intolerant.
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It has a nutty, crisp flavour and a crumbly texture
White cheddar cheese is a variety of cheese known for its distinctively tangy flavour and firm, crumbly texture. It is made from cow's milk and goes through the same cheddaring process as regular cheddar, except without the addition of colouring. The term "sharp" in cheese indicates how its flavour and texture change as it ages. The sharpness of cheddar cheese intensifies with age, and it can range from mild to extra sharp.
Extra-sharp white cheddar cheese, aged for at least three years, has a nutty, crisp flavour and a crumbly texture. The longer ageing process enhances the sharpness and intensifies the flavour and texture of the cheese. The nutty attribute adds a unique dimension to the sharp and crisp taste, making it a delightful burst of flavour in any dish. Its crumbly texture, a result of the ageing process, makes it ideal for crumbling over salads, appetizers, and entrees.
The sharp, nutty, and crisp characteristics of extra-sharp white cheddar make it a versatile ingredient that pairs well with various foods and beverages. It is an excellent addition to a classic mac and cheese recipe, enhancing the dish with a rich, melty, and flavourful twist. On a meat and cheese board, extra-sharp white cheddar brings balance to milder cheeses, creating a delightful contrast in flavours and textures.
When it comes to drinks, extra-sharp white cheddar is remarkably versatile. It complements a wide range of wines, including reds, whites, and rosés. The cheese's bold flavour can stand up to off-dry, mature beverages with a touch of sweetness, such as Saison ale, cider, bock, and Belgian ales. For wines, Riesling, Chardonnay, and champagne (whites), as well as Syrah, Pinot Noir, and Chianti (reds), are excellent choices to pair with the nutty, crisp flavour of the cheese.
To ensure the best quality and prolong the shelf life of extra-sharp white cheddar cheese, proper storage is essential. It should always be stored in the refrigerator, preferably wrapped in wax paper or parchment paper, and then placed in an airtight plastic bag or plastic wrap. Freezing is not recommended unless the cheese is intended for cooking, as it can alter its texture. With proper care, extra-sharp white cheddar cheese will retain its nutty, crisp flavour and crumbly texture, adding a delightful touch to your culinary creations.
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It is made from cow's milk, using the same process as traditional cheddar
White cheddar cheese is made from cow's milk, using a similar process to that of traditional cheddar cheese. The milk is heated, and rennet is added as a thickening agent. The curds are then cut into small pieces and cooked to expel whey, the liquid component of milk. The curds are salted and pressed into moulds to remove any remaining moisture. Finally, the cheese is aged, contributing to its flavour and texture. The longer the cheese is aged, the sharper its taste becomes.
Cheddar cheese originates from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, South West England, and its production dates back to the 12th century. It is now made in various countries, including Australia, Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, Sweden, Finland, Uruguay, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
The traditional method of making cheddar involves using raw milk and animal rennet, and wrapping the cheese in cloth. This method is specified by the Slow Food Movement, which argues that only three cheeses should be called "original cheddar". The West Country Farmhouse Cheddar is another example of a traditional cheddar with a protected designation of origin (PDO).
Cheddar cheese can be made with either cow, goat, or sheep milk. The type of milk used can vary depending on the region and the cheesemaker's preference. The sharpness of cheddar cheese is associated with the levels of bitter peptides in the cheese, which develop during the ageing process. The texture of cheddar is typically firm, and it can range in colour from white to pale yellow or orange, depending on the addition of food colouring.
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It is best stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in wax or parchment paper
Cheddar cheese is a semi-hard cheese, which means it has been aged for months or even years. This process of ageing impacts the flavour and texture of the cheese, making it sharper as it gets older. White cheddar cheese is aged for over nine months, giving it a smooth, bold, rich, and creamy flavour.
To keep your white cheddar cheese tasting its best, it's important to store it properly. The best way to do this is to wrap it in wax or parchment paper, then place it in the refrigerator. This type of paper allows the cheese to breathe, preventing it from drying out. You can also add a layer of plastic wrap to help seal in the moisture.
It is best to avoid using plastic wrap directly on the cheese, as it can affect the flavour and texture. Instead, use a reusable container or bag to store the wrapped cheese in the refrigerator. This will help to regulate moisture and temperature, both of which play a part in how quickly the cheese spoils.
By following these storage guidelines, you can expect your block of hard, aged cheese, such as white cheddar, to last three to four weeks. Once opened, shredded hard cheeses can last up to a month in the fridge. However, it's important to note that mould may appear on the cheese over time, even if it hasn't spoiled. If this happens, simply cut off at least one inch around and below the mouldy spot before consuming the rest of the cheese.
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It pairs well with fresh fruit, crackers, and salty meats
Sharp white cheddar cheese is a versatile variety of cheese known for its distinctively tangy flavour and firm, crumbly texture. It is made from cow's milk and goes through the same "cheddaring" process as regular cheddar, except without the addition of colouring. This cheese pairs well with fresh fruit, crackers, and salty meats.
When creating a cheeseboard with sharp white cheddar, consider adding some fresh fruit to the mix. The sweetness of the fruit can help to balance out the tanginess of the cheese, creating a harmonious flavour profile. Apples, pears, and grapes are all excellent choices that are widely available and pair well with the cheese's sharpness.
As for crackers, sharp white cheddar goes well with a variety of options. A neutral cracker, such as a water cracker, can serve as a blank canvas for the cheese's flavour to shine. Alternatively, a heartier option like a whole-grain cracker or a crispbread can provide a nice textural contrast to the crumbly cheese.
When it comes to salty meats, the options are endless. Cured meats like prosciutto or salami are classic choices that complement the sharpness of the cheddar. Smoked meats, such as speck or smoked salmon, can also be a delicious pairing, adding another layer of flavour to the dish. For those who enjoy a heartier option, a cured sausage such as pepperoni or chorizo can provide a nice kick of spice.
In addition to these pairings, sharp white cheddar is a versatile ingredient that can enhance many recipes. It has excellent melting qualities, making it a popular choice for casseroles, mac and cheese, and grilled cheese sandwiches. Its robust flavour can also add depth to appetizers, salads, and entrees. When cooking with sharp white cheddar, it's important to note that lower-fat varieties may require shredding or cutting into strips before melting, to achieve the best results.
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Frequently asked questions
White cheddar cheese is made from the same process as traditional cheddar cheese but is not coloured with annatto, giving it a pale colour.
Sharp cheddar cheese is an indication of how the cheese changes in flavour and texture as it ages. It has a bold, rich, and creamy flavour and a crumbly texture.
Sharp white cheddar has a distinctively tangy flavour and a firm, crumbly texture. It is made from cow's milk and goes through the same "cheddaring" process as regular cheddar, except without the addition of colouring.
If you notice any mould growing on the surface of your sharp white cheddar cheese, it is best to discard it. Additionally, if the cheese becomes too hard or starts to smell sour, it is time to throw it away.
