Andy Montoya
Cheddar is the most popular cheese in the United Kingdom and a close second in the United States. It is made from milk, usually from a cow, which is added to cultures and rennet to curdle. The curds are then cut, stacked, and flipped in a process called cheddaring, which removes excess moisture until the cheese reaches a semi-firm texture. Cheddar is labelled as mild, sharp, extra sharp, or seriously sharp, with the mildest cheddars aged for less than a year and the sharpest aged for two years or more. When shopping for cheddar, it's important to know how you plan to use it and what your flavour preferences are. For example, older cheddars are better for salads, sandwiches, and cheese boards, while younger cheddars are more suitable for melting. When it comes to health, cheddar is often criticised for being high in sodium and saturated fat, but there are healthier options available that are lower in sodium, high in calcium, and free from artificial ingredients, colours, and flavours. Popular cheddar brands include Kerrygold, Cracker Barrel, Cabot, Kraft, and Beecher's.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Texture | Semi-firm, dry, grainy, oily, excellent cheese-puller, creamy, thick cut, finely shredded |
| Flavor | Nutty, buttery, zesty, salty, savory, funky sourness, mild, sharp, extra sharp, bitter aftertaste |
| Color | Bright orange, white |
| Ingredients | Milk, cultures, rennet/enzymes, salt, annatto, herbs, spices, calcium phosphate, sodium citrate, gelatin, preservatives, acidity regulators, color |
| Brand | Kerrygold, Cracker Barrel, Cabot, 365, Good & Gather, Kraft, Organic Valley Raw, Beecher's Flagship, Old Croc, Trader Joe's, Happy Belly, Sargento, Violife, Kroger |
| Use cases | Quick snack, crackers, mac and cheese, grilled cheese, sandwiches, cheese boards, noodle casserole, pimento cheese, quesadilla, grilled cheese sandwich, taco |
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What You'll Learn
How to select the best cheddar cheese
Cheddar is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, from grilled cheese sandwiches to macaroni and cheese. When selecting the best cheddar cheese, there are a few factors to consider.
First, it is important to know how you plan to use the cheese. If you are looking for a melting cheese, milder cheddars are a better option as they melt more easily. Aged cheddars, on the other hand, have a more robust flavour profile and are better suited for salads, sandwiches and cheese boards.
Second, consider the flavour and sharpness of the cheese. Cheddars can range from mild to extra sharp, with the sharpness indicating the age of the cheese. Mild cheddars are aged for less than a year, sharp cheddars for about a year, and extra sharp cheddars for two years or more. The sharpness will also depend on personal preference, as some people prefer the tangier, more mature flavour of aged cheddars, while others may find them too strong.
Third, take into account the quality of the ingredients and the presence of artificial additives. Many cheddars contain artificial colours, such as annatto, which gives them their signature orange hue. These additives are unnecessary and can be avoided by choosing natural cheeses. Similarly, some cheddars contain anti-caking agents, which can affect the taste, texture, and meltability of the cheese.
Finally, consider the calcium content and sodium levels. Hard cheeses like cheddar generally have higher calcium content, which is beneficial for bone health. However, cheddar also tends to be high in sodium and saturated fat, so choosing a lower-sodium option may be a healthier choice.
When selecting the best cheddar cheese, it is important to read the ingredient list and nutrition label to make an informed decision. The ideal cheddar cheese will depend on your personal preferences and how you plan to use it, but by keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a high-quality, tasty cheddar that suits your needs.
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Cheddar cheese with the fewest additives
Cheddar cheese is a hard cheese with a high calcium content. It is made from milk, cultures, rennet/enzymes, and salt. However, some manufacturers add unnecessary additives and artificial fillers to their cheddar cheese products. These additives are not always listed on the label, but they can include synthetic vitamins, GMOs, and artificial colours.
When it comes to finding cheddar cheese with the fewest additives, it is important to read the ingredient list carefully. Some common additives found in cheddar cheese include anti-caking mixtures, ingredients to help the cheese melt evenly, and artificial colours.
One brand that has been noted for its long list of additives is Kraft. Their Cheddar Cheese Blocks contain vague ingredients such as "acidity regulators", "preservatives", and simply "colour". Borden's Extra Sharp Cheddar Melts also contains a long list of ingredients like calcium phosphate, sodium citrate, gelatin, and "colour added".
On the other hand, some brands offer cheddar cheese with fewer additives. For example, Miller's Bio Farm removed three additives from their cheese: synthetic vitamins, GMOs, and artificial colours. Their sharp cheddar and smoked cheddar cheeses are made with beef rennet, which will be additive-free by 2025.
When shopping for cheddar cheese with the fewest additives, it is important to look for products that are made with minimal processing and natural ingredients. Reading the ingredient list and choosing brands that are transparent about their additives can help make an informed decision.
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Cheddar cheese with the highest calcium content
Cheddar cheese is a widely consumed semi-hard cheese that is made from cow's milk. It is a rich source of calcium, protein, and vitamin K2. Vitamin K2 is essential for heart and bone health as it prevents calcium buildup in arteries and veins, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.
When it comes to selecting the best cheddar cheese with the highest calcium content, it is important to consider the style, aging, and ingredients. Cheddar cheese comes in a range of styles, from mild to extra sharp, each with its unique flavour and texture. Generally, mild cheddars are aged for less than a year, sharp cheddars for about a year, and extra-sharp cheddars for two years. The aging process affects the cheese's texture, flavour, and meltability. Older cheddars have a more robust flavour profile and are less meltable, making them ideal for salads, sandwiches, and cheese boards.
To ensure you are getting a high-calcium cheddar cheese, it is advisable to choose one with no artificial ingredients or colours. Many cheddars contain artificial colours, resulting in their bright orange appearance. These additives and unnecessary artificial fillers may impact the calcium content and overall quality of the cheese. Therefore, opting for natural cheeses without artificial ingredients is recommended.
Additionally, the calcium content in cheddar cheese can vary depending on the brand, recipe, and method of production. According to Osteoporosis Canada, a 3 cm cube of hard cheddar cheese contains approximately 245 mg of calcium, contributing to nearly a quarter of your recommended daily intake. Marble cheddar, a type of partially skimmed cheese, is also a good source of calcium, providing 21% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI) per 25-gram serving. On the other hand, fat-free cheddar cheese slices provide the least amount of calcium, with around 10% RDI per serving.
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Best sliced cheddar cheese for sandwiches
When it comes to sandwiches, sliced cheddar cheese is a classic choice. While there are many types of cheddar cheese available, some are better suited for sandwiches than others. Here are some recommendations for the best sliced cheddar cheese to elevate your sandwich experience:
First and foremost, the Cabot Creamery Seriously Sharp Cheddar is a premium option that delivers on flavour. This naturally aged cheese has a thicker cut and a creamy texture, making it perfect for sandwiches. Its sharpness builds with each bite, providing a delightful sensory experience.
If you're looking for a more widely available option, Sargento Creamery is a well-known brand that offers sliced cheddar cheese. Their cheese is designed to melt well, making it ideal for grilled cheese sandwiches. Sargento's slices are neither too thick nor too thin, ensuring they don't stick together and providing a "floppy" feel that suggests creaminess.
For those who prefer a milder flavour, a young gouda or fontina cheese can be an excellent choice. These cheeses melt beautifully and offer a nutty, caramel-like flavour that pairs well with other sandwich ingredients.
When making a grilled cheese sandwich, it's essential to start with sturdy bread, such as sourdough or ciabatta. Butter the bread or using the diner trick" of spreading mayonnaise on the outside can create a crispy exterior. For a classic British cheese sandwich, a combination of Cheddar and Red Leicester is a popular choice, and a firmer loaf of bread is recommended.
While pre-sliced cheddar cheese can be convenient, some enthusiasts suggest purchasing a block of cheddar cheese and slicing it yourself to ensure the perfect thickness and freshness for your sandwiches. This way, you can also choose the type of cheddar that best suits your taste, whether it's a sharp, extra-sharp, or mild variety.
Lastly, for those on a budget, consider purchasing cheddar cheese from stores like Lidl or Aldi, which offer more affordable options without compromising too much on quality.
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Best mild cheddar cheese
Mild cheddars are usually aged for less than a year. They are perfect for melting and are a great option for recipes that call for a milder flavour. When choosing a mild cheddar, it's important to consider factors such as taste, texture, and quality.
Some popular brands that offer mild cheddar cheese include Kerrygold, Cracker Barrel, Cabot, and Trader Joe's. Cabot's Vermont Sharp Cheddar Cheese, for example, is known for its mild flavour, but it tends to become oily after melting. Kraft's Cheddar Cheese Blocks are another option, known for their lower calorie content compared to other brands. However, Kraft's ingredient list includes vague items such as acidity regulators, preservatives, and colour additives. If you're looking for a more natural option, Kraft's Natural Cheese Signature Shreds Cheddar Blend is a better choice.
For those who prefer organic options, Organic Valley's Grassmilk Raw Cheddar is USDA-certified and made with milk from 100% grass-fed cows, resulting in a robust flavour. This cheese is aged a minimum of 60 days and won the 2017 Los Angeles International Dairy Competition. It's important to note that this cheese is heat-treated, so it may not be suitable for those with compromised immune systems or specific dietary restrictions.
If you're looking for a plant-based option, Miyoko's Creamery offers a delicious vegan Roadhouse Cheddar Cheese Spread that pairs well with crackers. Sargento's shredded mild cheddar cheese is another option for those who enjoy a creamy texture and a nutty, savoury flavour.
When selecting a mild cheddar, consider your intended use. If you're using it in recipes such as mac and cheese or grilled cheese sandwiches, look for meltable mild to medium cheddars. Older cheddars might not melt as well but can offer more robust flavours for dishes like salads and cheese boards.
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Frequently asked questions
Some popular cheddar cheese brands include Kerrygold, Cracker Barrel, Cabot, Kraft, and Trader Joe's.
It's important to consider how you plan to use the cheese and your personal flavour preferences. For recipes, mild to medium meltable cheddars are ideal. Aged cheddars have stronger flavours and don't melt as well, making them better for salads, sandwiches, and cheese boards.
Cheddar cheese is often criticised for being high in sodium and saturated fat. It's recommended to choose cheddar cheeses with lower sodium, high calcium, and no artificial ingredients or colours.
The best-tasting cheddar cheese will depend on individual preferences. Some well-reviewed options include Beecher's Flagship, Old Croc, and Cabot Vermont Sharp Cheddar Cheese. For shredded cheddar, Kroger brand has been praised for its tang and creaminess, while Violife offers a good vegan option.
