Patrick Oconnell
Blue cheese is a popular ingredient in many dishes, and it can be purchased from grocery stores. However, some people prefer to make their own blue cheese at home. There are a variety of blue cheeses available in stores, including Danish blue cheese, St. Agur blue cheese, Gorgonzola, and Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company's Original Blue. Some people also like to make their own blue cheese dressing at home, which can be used as a salad dressing or a dipping sauce.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Blue cheese types | Danish blue, Gorgonzola, Roquefort, Stilton, St. Agur, Cambozola, Caveman Blue, Rogue River Blue, Thomasville Tome |
| Blue cheese uses | Salads, dips, blue cheese dressing, melting on burgers and steak, mixing into pasta or risotto, incorporating into scrambled eggs and mashed potatoes |
| Blue cheese pairings | Red wine (Cabernet, Zinfandel), malt-centric beers, port |
| Blue cheese ingredients | Cow's milk, goat's milk, salt, enzymes, cheese cultures, Penicillium Roqueforti, grape leaves, pear liqueur |
| Blue cheese texture | Creamy, crumbly, smooth, crystalline |
| Blue cheese flavour | Tangy, savoury, sweet, smoky, earthy, nutty, peppery, bold, sour, rich, complex |
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What You'll Learn
Blue cheese crumbles
One of the benefits of blue cheese crumbles is their versatility. They can be used as a topping for salads, adding a tangy kick to the dish. The crumbles can also be mixed into a creamy dressing or dip, providing a strong flavour that complements the creaminess of the dressing. Blue cheese crumbles are also a good choice for those who enjoy DIY blue cheese dressing. The crumbles can be diluted with mayonnaise, sour cream, or milk to create a dressing with a thinner consistency for salads.
When it comes to taste, blue cheese crumbles offer a unique experience. While some may find the mouldy tang of blue cheese off-putting, others appreciate its nuanced flavour profile. A good-quality blue cheese crumble should strike a balance between sweet and savoury, with a hint of smokiness. This complexity sets it apart from other types of cheese and makes it a favourite among those who enjoy strong, distinctive flavours.
The quality of blue cheese crumbles can vary, and it's worth investing in a good product. While some cheaper options may be tempting, they might lack the depth of flavour and texture that makes blue cheese crumbles so special. A high-quality blue cheese crumble, on the other hand, will offer a rich and satisfying experience. It's worth noting that the price of blue cheese crumbles can vary, and a good-quality option may cost around $11 for a six-ounce wedge.
For those looking to elevate their culinary creations, blue cheese crumbles can be a wonderful secret weapon. They can be used in a variety of recipes, adding a unique flavour that is sure to impress. Whether you're a chef, a home cook, or simply a cheese enthusiast, blue cheese crumbles are definitely worth exploring. With their powerful flavour and versatility, they are a great addition to any kitchen.
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Blue cheese brands
Blue cheese is made from cow, goat, or sheep's milk and is known for its strong flavour and smell. It gets its name from the blue spots inside the cheese, which are blooms of a tiny mushroom called penicillium. While there are many types of penicillium, the most common type used in blue cheese is penicillium roqueforti.
Rogue Creamery
Rogue Creamery, based in Oregon's Rogue Valley, is a well-known producer of blue cheese. Their signature product, the Rogue River Blue, is a limited-edition, seasonal cheese made from organic cow's milk during the cooler months. It is then aged for 9 to 11 months in caves and hand-wrapped in grape leaves that have been soaked in pear spirits. Rogue Creamery also offers other varieties, such as the Smokey Blue, which has complex aromas of vanilla and hazelnuts, and the Oregon Blue, which has won awards for its unique flavour.
Saint Agur
Saint Agur is a French blue cheese that has won awards for its creamy texture and intense fruity taste. It is a double-crème blue cheese, with a high butterfat content, that balances the strong flavour of the mould with the sweetness of its cream. Saint Agur can be found in cheese shops and is a popular choice for cheese boards.
Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's offers a range of blue cheese options, including a raw cow's milk variety that is creamy with a touch of tang and a nutty finish. Their blue cheese is known for its strong, salty, and pungent flavour, making it a favourite among true blue cheese enthusiasts. It is also reasonably priced, making it a great option for those on a budget.
Gorgonzola
Gorgonzola is a well-known blue cheese that originates from Italy. It is characterised by its strong, tangy flavour and creamy texture. The "centre cut" variety is considered the richest and most flavourful cut of Gorgonzola, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a deep, intense flavour.
Stilton
Stilton is a classic English blue cheese that is rich, savoury, and creamy with a tangy flavour. It is often recommended as a great option for those who enjoy a strong and savoury blue cheese experience.
Other notable mentions of blue cheese brands include Cashel Blue, Delft Bleu, Roaring 40's, Roquefort, Cambozola, and Great Hill Blue Cheese.
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Blue cheese dressing
Blue cheese is a popular ingredient in many dishes, and it can be purchased at most grocery stores. It is known for its strong flavour and distinctive mouldy tang. While some people enjoy the unique taste of blue cheese, others find it off-putting and compare it to the taste of ammonia.
If you're looking to make a blue cheese dressing, there are a few simple recipes you can follow. The key ingredients you will need are blue cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and parsley. You can also add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Some people also like to add a splash of milk to make the dressing thinner and more pourable, which is better suited for salads. If you want a thicker dressing for dipping, simply leave out the milk.
To make the blue cheese dressing, start by combining the sour cream and mayonnaise. Blue cheese can be strong, so using both sour cream and mayonnaise will lighten up the flavour and make the dressing extra creamy. Next, add in the crumbled blue cheese, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Use a spoon to press some of the blue cheese crumbles into the sauce for added flavour. If you're using milk, add a splash and stir until well blended.
When it comes to choosing the right blue cheese for your dressing, there are a few options to consider. Gorgonzola is a popular choice known for its ultra-sharp and creamy texture. If you're looking for something a little more subtle, Danish blue cheese is a rich and creamy option that's not as zingy as other varieties. Stilton is another variety that's rich, savoury, and creamy with a good amount of tang. Ultimately, the best blue cheese for your dressing is the one that you enjoy the taste of, so feel free to experiment with different options to find your favourite.
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Blue cheese ammonia taste
Blue cheese is known for its strong flavor and smell, which can be attributed to the mold that it contains. While some amount of mold in blue cheese is normal and even desirable, too much mold can indicate that the cheese is overripe or has gone bad.
One common issue with blue cheese is the presence of ammonia, which can give the cheese an unwelcome smell and taste. This ammonia taste or smell is a sign that the cheese is aging or overripe, especially in bloomy-rind cheeses like Brie. As these cheeses ripen, their surface molds break down proteins into amino acids, and ammonia is a byproduct of that breakdown. When a cheese is aging in a well-ventilated area, the ammonia gas is released into the air. However, when the cheese is wrapped for sale, the ammonia gas can become trapped, leading to a strong ammonia smell or taste when the cheese is first unwrapped.
To mitigate the ammonia taste or smell, it is recommended to leave the cheese unwrapped at room temperature for a period of time before consuming it. This allows the ammonia gas to dissipate. If the ammonia smell or taste remains, it is likely that the cheese is overripe and should be discarded.
It is worth noting that different brands and types of blue cheese can have varying amounts of ammonia taste or smell. For example, some Reddit users have reported that they find the ammonia taste to be more prominent in certain brands like Murray's and Stilton. On the other hand, other types of blue cheese, such as Danish blue cheese, are known for being milder and less zingy compared to other varieties.
In conclusion, while some ammonia taste or smell in blue cheese is normal due to the aging process, excessive ammonia can indicate that the cheese is overripe or has gone bad. By allowing the cheese to air out and observing the recommended storage practices, consumers can minimize the ammonia taste or smell and ensure the quality of their blue cheese.
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Blue cheese pairings
Blue cheese is a bold and salty ingredient that can be paired with a variety of foods and drinks to create delicious flavour combinations. Here are some ideas for blue cheese pairings:
Food Pairings
Blue cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Some food pairings to consider are:
- Salads: Blue cheese pairs well with salads, especially those containing fruits like pears, persimmons, or apples. It can also be combined with walnuts, celery, and grapes to create a Waldorf salad.
- Meat: Blue cheese has a natural meatiness that pairs well with red meat. It can be melted on a burger or steak, or used as a sauce for steak frites. For vegetarians, blue cheese can be paired with portobello mushrooms instead of steak.
- Baked potatoes: Blue cheese can be a tasty addition to baked potatoes, along with ingredients like green onions, bacon, cheddar cheese, and sour cream.
- Pasta: Blue cheese can be used in pasta dishes, such as a spinach-based lasagna with a blue cheese bechamel sauce.
- Pizza: A blue cheese, caramelised onion, and potato pizza is a unique and flavourful combination.
- Snacks: Blue cheese can be enjoyed with crackers, bread, or oatcakes, and paired with nuts, honey, or butter.
Drink Pairings
When it comes to drinks, blue cheese typically pairs better with beverages other than wine. Some drink pairings to consider are:
- Cider: A fresh and zingy apple or pear cider can work harmoniously with the rich and bold flavour of blue cheese.
- Port: A glass of port is a classic pairing with blue cheese, especially while relaxing in front of a fireplace.
- Tea and Coffee: Black tea or coffee can surprisingly complement the flavour of blue cheese.
- Chocolate: Dark chocolate with a good sweet-to-bitter ratio can enhance the earthy qualities of blue cheese.
These are just a few suggestions, but feel free to experiment with different pairings to find your favourite combinations.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, blue cheese sold in stores is real.
Some popular options for blue cheese in stores include St. Agur, Thomasville Tome, Gorgonzola, Roquefort, Stilton, and Trader Joe's blue cheese selection.
Blue cheese is known for its strong, tangy flavor and creamy texture. If your blue cheese tastes ammoniated, you can leave it uncovered for 15 minutes and taste it again. If it still tastes ammoniated, you can return it to the store and ask for a refund.
