Bushra Griffith
Basket cheese is a unique, fresh cheese with a delicate texture and tangy flavor, molded in wicker baskets. It is a type of cheese that originated in Italy but is now popular in several other countries, including the United States. It is typically made with cow's milk, although some varieties are made with goat's milk. Basket cheese is known for its mild, slightly tangy flavor and creamy texture, and it is often enjoyed as a table cheese or paired with toast. It can also be used as an ingredient in various recipes. The cheese-making process involves forming the curds in baskets and allowing them to drain and firm up, followed by salting and refrigeration. Homemade basket cheese has a short shelf life, and freezing can be an option to extend its freshness.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Origin | Italy |
| Texture | Creamy, crumbly, delicate, soft, smooth |
| Flavor | Mild, slightly tangy, sweet |
| Type of milk used | Cow's milk, goat's milk |
| Lactose | Yes |
| Gluten | No |
| Melting | No |
| Shelf life | 3 days |
| Can be frozen | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
Basket cheese is a unique, fresh Italian cheese
Basket cheese is a perishable food item and should not be left out at room temperature for an extended period. It can be frozen to extend its shelf life, but it is recommended to consume it within a few days of purchasing or making it. The process of making basket cheese is an art, and it is often passed down through generations. The recipe for this cheese has been shared and adapted by many people, with some making it with ultra-pasteurized milk, which does not allow curds to form, and others warning against this.
The process of making basket cheese is quite intricate. First, the curds are scooped into baskets and left to drain for 30-45 minutes, or until firm. Then, the cheese is flipped and returned to the baskets to drain for an additional hour. Afterward, it is flipped again, weighted down, and left to drain overnight. At this point, the cheese can be salted to taste and returned to the basket, or it can be placed in a brine solution for 20 minutes. Finally, the cheese is refrigerated to firm up and is ready to be enjoyed.
Basket cheese is a delightful addition to any cheese platter or appetizer spread. Its mild flavor and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser, and its unique production method and presentation in the basket it was made in add to its charm. This cheese is a testament to the rich tradition of Italian cheesemaking and is perfect for those eager to explore different cheese-making techniques and flavors.
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It has a tangy, delicate flavour and creamy texture
Basket cheese is a unique, fresh cheese with a delicate, tangy flavour and creamy texture. It is typically made with cow's milk, although goat's milk can also be used. This Italian cheese is usually sold in the basket in which it is made, often a wicker basket, which gives it its name and its distinctive mould.
Basket cheese is a mild, slightly tangy, smooth and soft cheese with a creamy texture. It is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of recipes. It is delicious when drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with freshly ground salt and pepper. It can also be enjoyed with toast or on its own. Its mild flavour means it is a great cheese to pair with other foods.
Basket cheese is a perishable food and should not be left out at room temperature for an extended period. It can be frozen to extend its shelf life, although this may affect its texture. It is best to wrap it tightly or place it in an airtight container to preserve it.
Basket cheese is a fun and satisfying cheese to make at home. It is a simple process that requires few ingredients and tools. The recipe involves heating milk and allowing curds to form, which are then scooped into baskets lined with cheesecloth. The cheese is then flipped and returned to the basket to drain, with a weight placed on top to help press and shape it. After salting, the cheese is refrigerated and is ready to eat within a few days.
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It's made with cow's or goat's milk and rennet
Basket cheese is a unique, fresh cheese with a delicate texture and tangy flavour. It is moulded in wicker baskets and originates from Italy, although it is now popular in several other countries, including the United States.
Basket cheese is made from cow's milk, coagulated using enzymes or acids. Cow's milk contains larger fat molecules, making it harder to digest than goat's cheese and giving it a heavier mouthfeel. Cow's milk cheeses can highlight the flavour of the grass the cows graze on, and are often described as 'grassy' or as tasting 'like the pasture'. Other common tasting notes include sweet cream, butterscotch, mushroom, and nuts, depending on the style.
Goat's milk is also used to make cheese and has some distinct differences. Goat's milk contains less of a protein called casein, which causes many goat cheeses to be drier and crumblier than cow's milk cheeses. Goat's milk cheese generally falls into one of two categories: limestone-y and citrusy, or musky and barnyardy. Goat's milk is also slightly higher in fat and minerals and contains less lactose, vitamin D, and riboflavin than cow's milk.
Rennet is a common curdling agent used in cheesemaking, and can be used with both cow's and goat's milk. It is added to the milk to start the curdling process, and can be made from either animal. Avoid using ultra-pasteurized milk as it won't form curds.
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It can be frozen to extend its shelf life
Basket cheese is a unique, fresh cheese with a delicate, tangy flavour and a creamy, crumbly texture. It is typically made with cow's milk, although goat's milk can also be used. This Italian cheese is usually sold in the basket in which it is made, often a wicker basket, which leaves superficial striations on the thick outer rind.
Basket cheese has a very short shelf life of only 3 days. However, it can be frozen to extend its shelf life. Freezing is a good option if you are unable to finish the cheese within a few days. It is important to note that freezing may alter the texture of the cheese.
To freeze basket cheese, it is recommended to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container before placing it in the freezer. This will help to maintain its quality and freshness.
When you are ready to consume the frozen basket cheese, simply remove it from the freezer and allow it to thaw gradually in the refrigerator. It is best to unwrap the cheese and place it in a container or wrap it in a piece of wax paper to absorb any excess moisture released during the thawing process.
By freezing basket cheese, you can extend its shelf life and enjoy its unique flavour and texture for a longer period. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly affected, but proper wrapping and storage can help minimize these changes.
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It's versatile and can be eaten alone or used in recipes
Basket cheese is a unique, fresh cheese with a creamy, delicate texture and a tangy flavour. It is a versatile ingredient that can be eaten alone or used in recipes. It is typically made with cow's milk, but goat's milk can also be used.
Basket cheese is a great snack on its own, perhaps with a drizzle of olive oil and some freshly ground salt and pepper. Its mild flavour also makes it a good pairing with toast.
Basket cheese can be used in a variety of recipes. It can be sliced and layered with strawberries, or used in a blend with other ingredients such as milk, cream, eggs, and berries. It can also be used as a filling, perhaps with cream cheese, and is a good addition to pasta dishes.
Basket cheese can be made at home, and this is a popular option as it is not available in all markets. The process involves allowing curds to settle and form in a basket, and then pressing and salting the cheese. The longer the cheese is allowed to drain, the firmer it will be.
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Frequently asked questions
Basket cheese is a kind of cheese that originates from the Mediterranean region. It is traditionally formed inside a basket, which leaves a woven imprint on its surface. It is a smooth, soft, and delicate cheese with a very faint curd flavour.
Basket cheese is used in several savoury pies traditionally served during Easter in Italy. It is also used in salads and can be eaten on its own.
Basket cheese has a very faint flavour of curds and is described as tasting like a cross between ricotta and mozzarella. It is not salted and is said to resemble tofu in texture.
Basket cheese is a hard-to-find Easter favourite, but it can be purchased from select markets and grocery stores.
