Randy Chandler
Pizza is a universally loved dish, and the cheese is the star of the show. The type of cheese used on a pizza can transform an ordinary pizza into an extraordinary culinary experience. While there are many types of cheese that can be used on pizza, mozzarella is the most popular. It is known for its perfect meltability and mild, creamy flavour, and it creates that iconic stretchy, gooey layer that pizza lovers crave. However, other types of cheese such as provolone, cheddar, gouda, and ricotta are also commonly used on pizza, either blended with mozzarella or on their own.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Etymology | The word "cheese" comes from the Latin "caseus", which is derived from the proto-Indo-European root "*kwat-" meaning "to ferment, become sour". |
| Origin Myth | One common origin myth involves storing milk in a satchel or container made from an animal's stomach, which contains rennet, an enzyme that causes milk to coagulate. |
| Types | Cheddar, Colby, Monterey Jack, Cold Pack, Cream Cheese, Farmer's Cheese, Cottage Cheese, Havarti, Gouda, Provolone, Pecorino, Parmesan, American Cheese, Pule Cheese, Casu Martzu, and more. |
| Texture | Soft, crumbly, creamy, hard, melt-in-your-mouth, or hard and crumbly. |
| Taste | Mild, tangy, salty, or a combination of these. |
| Use | Can be eaten as a snack, used in recipes, grated, garnished, or used in sweet and savoury dishes. |
| Milk Source | Cow, goat, sheep, donkey, or buffalo milk. |
| Pairings | Honey, olives, or wine. |
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What You'll Learn
- Cheese is nutritious, containing protein, calcium, phosphorus, vitamins B12 and A
- It has a long shelf life, is portable, and is versatile in cooking
- There are over a thousand types of cheese, with different textures, flavours, and forms
- Cheese is made from the milk of cows, goats, sheep, or water buffalo
- It is produced by coagulating milk protein, separating curds from whey, and adding flavour
Cheese is nutritious, containing protein, calcium, phosphorus, vitamins B12 and A
Cheese is a nutritious food, containing a variety of essential nutrients. While it is well-known for its high calcium content, cheese is also a good source of protein, phosphorus, vitamins B12 and A, zinc, riboflavin, and other important nutrients.
Protein is abundant in cheese, with one ounce of hard cheese containing around 8 grams, and half a cup of soft cheese like cottage cheese providing about 14 grams. The protein in cheese, particularly slow-absorbing casein, is beneficial for muscle building and repair, contributing to better muscle quality and a higher metabolism. Additionally, a high-protein diet can aid in weight management by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness.
Cheese is an excellent source of calcium, which plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health and reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Phosphorus, also found in cheese, works alongside calcium to support bone development and strength, particularly during growth spurts or bone recovery.
Cheese also contains vitamins B12 and A. Vitamin B12 is important for overall health and well-being, while vitamin A offers specific benefits. While the amount of vitamin A in cheese may vary based on factors such as the type of cheese and the milk used, it likely contributes to the overall nutritional profile.
In addition to these key nutrients, cheese provides beneficial probiotics, especially in fermented varieties. However, it is important to note that cheese is also high in saturated fat and sodium, so it is generally recommended to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
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It has a long shelf life, is portable, and is versatile in cooking
When it comes to cheese, there are numerous varieties to choose from, each with unique characteristics and uses. Here are some examples of cheeses that fit the criteria of having a long shelf life, being portable, and versatile in cooking:
- Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese is a fresh, mild-flavoured, and creamy variety that is extremely versatile in cooking. It can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes, adding a tangy and creamy element to recipes like lasagnas and cheesecakes. Its moisture content and pliability allow it to be moulded into various shapes, making it versatile not only in cooking but also in terms of presentation.
- Hard Cheeses: Cheeses like Cheddar, Pecorino, and Parmesan fall into the category of hard cheeses, which are known for their longer shelf life. These cheeses are excellent for grating and garnishing dishes. They can add a burst of flavour to pasta dishes, soups, and salads.
- Cold Pack Cheese: This type of cheese is a combination of two or more varieties of fresh and aged natural cheeses, often including Swiss and Cheddar. Cold pack cheese is hard and crumbly, and it doesn't melt, making it ideal for grating. Its flavour profile evolves as it ages, becoming tangier over time.
- Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is made by adding cream to milk, resulting in a smooth and tangy product. It is commonly used in desserts, such as cheesecakes and cookies, but can also be used in savoury applications like dips and spreads. Its versatility and creamy texture make it a popular choice for cooks and bakers alike.
- Farmer's Cheese: Farmer's cheese is made by removing the extra moisture from cottage cheese. It is then often rolled in herbs or smoked meats, giving it a unique flavour profile. Farmer's cheese can be made with sheep's, goat's, or cow's milk, and its style varies depending on the cheesemaker, making it a versatile option with a long shelf life.
These examples showcase how certain cheeses can be adapted to a variety of culinary applications while also being conveniently portable and long-lasting.
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There are over a thousand types of cheese, with different textures, flavours, and forms
The world of cheese is incredibly diverse, with over a thousand varieties to choose from. Each type of cheese has its own unique characteristics, from texture to flavour and form, offering endless pairing possibilities. The vast range of cheeses available today is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of cheesemakers worldwide.
Cheese is a beloved food item with a rich history, dating back to ancient times. The process of cheesemaking is believed to have been discovered accidentally, as per a legend about an Arab trader who stored milk in a container made from an animal's stomach. This accidental discovery led to the milk curdling and, thus, the creation of cheese. Today, cheese is enjoyed in various forms, from hard, aged classics like Cheddar and Parmesan to soft, creamy varieties such as Cottage Cheese and Cream Cheese.
The type of milk used, whether it be from cows, goats, or sheep, plays a significant role in determining the characteristics of the cheese. For example, cheeses made from goat's milk tend to have a tangier, sharper flavour, while those made from cow's milk are often milder and creamier. Additionally, the terroir, or the specific geographical origin of the milk, can also influence the flavour and characteristics of the final product.
Cheeses can be broadly categorised based on their texture, which ranges from soft and crumbly to hard and crumbly, or soft and creamy to hard and melt-in-your-mouth varieties. The hardness of a cheese is an important factor when deciding how to use it in cooking or as a garnish. Younger or less delicate cheeses are generally recommended for cooking, as they can withstand the heat without losing their flavour or texture.
Cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a multitude of dishes, from savoury to sweet. It can be melted, grated, sliced, or spread, adding flavour and texture to recipes. Some cheeses, like cottage cheese, are versatile and can be used in both savoury dishes like lasagna and sweet treats like cheesecakes. Other cheeses, like Colby, have a softer texture and a less tangy taste compared to similar-looking Cheddar, making them ideal for blending with other cheeses to create unique combinations like Colby Jack.
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Cheese is made from the milk of cows, goats, sheep, or water buffalo
Cheese is a dairy product that is made from milk. The type of milk used in cheese-making can vary, with cows', goats', sheep's, or water buffalo milk all being suitable. The choice of milk can impact the flavour, texture, and overall character of the final cheese.
Goat's milk, for example, tends to result in a tangier, more savoury cheese, while cow's milk produces a milder, creamier flavour. Sheep's milk often lends a sweet, nutty tone to the cheese. Water buffalo milk, used in certain parts of India, creates a rich and creamy flavour profile.
The process of cheese-making can vary, but it often involves curdling milk and separating the curds from the whey. This can be done in various ways, such as using rennet, an enzyme found in the stomachs of ruminant animals, or by adding lemon juice or vinegar to the milk. The curds can then be further treated, shaped, and aged to create different varieties of cheese.
Some cheeses, like cottage cheese, are known for their mild flavour, creamy texture, and versatility. They can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes, adding a tangy and creamy quality to recipes. Farmer's cheese, made from goat's or sheep's milk, or even cow's milk, is another versatile variety that can be rolled in herbs or smoked meats.
Cheese is a diverse and global food, with a wide range of flavours, textures, and production methods. The type of milk used is just one factor that influences the unique characteristics of each cheese variety.
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It is produced by coagulating milk protein, separating curds from whey, and adding flavour
Cheese is a beloved food product with a vast variety of types and uses. It is produced by coagulating milk protein, separating curds from whey, and adding flavour.
The process of coagulating milk involves curdling milk, which can be done by introducing bacteria or acids such as lemon juice or vinegar. This causes the milk to separate into solid curds and liquid whey. The curds are then drained and pressed to form a solid mass, which can be further processed into different varieties of cheese.
One popular type of cheese is cottage cheese, which is known for its mild flavour, creamy texture, and versatility in both sweet and savoury dishes. It is commonly used in recipes such as lasagnas and cheesecakes, adding a tangy and creamy quality to the dish. Another variety is farmer's cheese, which is made by removing the extra moisture from cottage cheese. It can be flavoured by rolling it in herbs or smoked meats and is traditionally made with sheep's or goat's milk, although cow's milk is also sometimes used.
The hardness of cheese is an important factor in determining its use. Hard cheeses like Cheddar, pecorino, or parmesan are typically grated and used as a garnish or ingredient, while softer cheeses like cream cheese are spreadable and often used in desserts. Some cheeses, like Cold Pack cheese, do not melt and are instead used for grating. The flavour of the cheese is also an important consideration when selecting a variety for a particular dish. Younger or less delicate cheeses are generally better suited for cooking, while more mature cheeses may be preferred for snacking or pairing with wine.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheese curds are used in poutine, though some recipes may substitute them for other cheeses like Colby or Monterey Jack.
Cottage cheese is a common choice for lasagna, but other cheeses like mozzarella can also be used.
Cream cheese is often used as the base for cheesecakes, but other fresh cheeses like cottage cheese can also be used.
Havarti, gouda, and provolone are popular choices for sandwiches.
Harder cheeses like pecorino or parmesan are often grated over salads. Softer, crumbly cheeses like feta can also be used.
