Frederic Melton
Cooper Sharp cheese is a popular American cheese, commonly used in grilled cheese sandwiches, deli sandwiches, mac and cheese, cheesesteaks, and burgers. It is known for its superior melting qualities and distinctively sharp taste. The cheese is produced by piping a liquified, pasteurized mixture of whey, proteins, and emulsifiers into moulds and allowing it to harden. In this paragraph, we will explore the ingredients and process used to create this beloved cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main component | Cheddar |
| Texture | Creamy |
| Taste | Sharp, salty, cheddar-forward |
| Melting qualities | Melts well |
| Best used for | Grilled cheese, mac and cheese, cheesesteaks, burgers, sandwiches, eggs |
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What You'll Learn
- Cooper Sharp is made by moulding a liquified mix of whey, proteins and emulsifiers
- It is a type of American cheese, with a sharper taste than other varieties
- Cheddar is the main component, selected and aged for 100-180 days
- It's known for melting very well, without the plastic aftertaste of pre-wrapped slices
- Cooper Sharp is popular in the Northeastern US, especially Philadelphia
Cooper Sharp is made by moulding a liquified mix of whey, proteins and emulsifiers
Cooper Sharp cheese is a popular variety of cheese that is especially well-loved in the Northeastern United States, including Philadelphia. It is known for its superior melting qualities and unique, sharp taste. Cooper Sharp is made through a specific process that involves moulding a liquified mix of whey, proteins, and emulsifiers.
The first step in making Cooper Sharp cheese is to prepare a mix of whey, proteins, and emulsifiers. Whey is a byproduct of the cheese-making process and is often used as an ingredient in processed cheese products. Proteins are added to provide structure and emulsifiers are included to help create a smooth, consistent texture. This mixture is then pasteurized, a heat treatment process that kills bacteria and extends the shelf life of the product.
The liquified mix is then carefully piped into moulds or forms. This step is crucial in giving Cooper Sharp its distinctive shape. The moulds are designed to create rectangular blocks of cheese that can be easily sliced, a feature that many consumers appreciate. The mixture is allowed to harden and set within the moulds, transforming from a liquid state into a solid block of cheese.
Once the mixture has set, the cheese is removed from the moulds and aged. The ageing process further develops the flavour and texture of the cheese. According to Kiah Simon, Cooper's associate brand manager, the cheese is "hand-selected and aged for between 100 to 180 days." This ageing process contributes to the sharpness and complexity of the cheese's flavour.
The final product is a creamy, flavorful cheese with a more cheddar-forward taste than other American cheese varieties. It has become a staple in many kitchens, beloved for its melting qualities that make it perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches, mac and cheese, cheesesteaks, and more. The unique manufacturing process of moulding a liquified mix of whey, proteins, and emulsifiers gives Cooper Sharp its signature texture and taste, making it a favourite among chefs and home cooks alike.
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It is a type of American cheese, with a sharper taste than other varieties
Cooper Sharp cheese is a variety of American cheese with a sharper taste than other varieties of American cheese. It is made by piping a liquified, pasteurized mix of whey, proteins, and emulsifiers into moulds and letting it harden. The cheese is then hand-selected and aged for between 100 to 180 days, resulting in a sharp and creamy flavour.
The sharp taste of Cooper cheese is often compared to that of cheddar, with a hint of salty Parmesan. This distinct flavour, combined with its superior melting qualities, has made it a popular choice for various dishes, particularly in the Northeastern United States. It is commonly used in grilled cheese sandwiches, mac and cheese, burgers, and even breakfast sandwiches, where it adds a burst of flavour and a creamy texture.
In Philadelphia, Cooper Sharp cheese is as iconic as the city itself. It is a staple ingredient in many dishes, including cheesesteaks, where it is favoured for its combination of taste and melting ability. The cheese can be found in delis, taverns, and restaurants across the region, and its reputation has spread beyond Philly, with people outside the region going to great lengths to get their hands on some.
The history of Cooper Sharp cheese dates back to the 1940s, and it has been a beloved part of culinary traditions for generations. It has earned a loyal following, with many associating it with comfort and fond memories. The unique taste and versatility of Cooper Sharp cheese have made it a favourite among both home cooks and professional chefs, solidifying its place as a staple in American cuisine.
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Cheddar is the main component, selected and aged for 100-180 days
Cooper Sharp cheese is made by piping a liquified, pasteurized mix of whey, proteins, and emulsifiers into moulds and letting it harden. The cheese has a more pronounced flavour than some other, better-known brands, with a more cheddar-forward taste. Cheddar is the main component, selected and aged for 100-180 days to develop this "sharp American" cheese.
Cooper Sharp is commonly referred to as "American" cheese and is used in many delis, taverns, and restaurants. It is especially popular in Philadelphia, where it is used in cheesesteaks and other dishes. The cheese is known for its superior melting qualities, making it a favourite for grilled cheese sandwiches, mac and cheese, and burgers.
The sharp flavour of Cooper Sharp cheese comes from the ageing process of the cheddar component. Cheddar is a type of cheese that is known for its sharp and tangy flavour, which develops and intensifies as it ages. The ageing process also affects the texture of the cheese, making it harder and more crumbly.
Aged cheddar has a more complex flavour than mild or medium cheddar, with nutty, sweet, and fruity notes. The specific ageing process and duration can vary depending on the cheesemaker, resulting in slight variations in the flavour and texture of the final product. However, the ageing process always occurs within a controlled environment, with specific temperature and humidity levels, to ensure the desired outcome.
The process of selecting and ageing the cheddar for Cooper Sharp cheese is a crucial step in creating its unique flavour and texture. This step ensures that the cheese has the right balance of sharpness and creaminess, making it a versatile ingredient for a variety of dishes.
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It's known for melting very well, without the plastic aftertaste of pre-wrapped slices
Cooper Sharp cheese is a popular variety of American cheese known for its exceptional melting qualities and distinct flavour. It is a beloved ingredient in the Northeastern United States, particularly in Philadelphia, where it is a staple in many dishes.
The cheese is produced by piping a liquified, pasteurized mixture of whey, proteins, and emulsifiers into moulds and allowing it to harden. This process results in a cheese that melts effortlessly, making it a favourite for grilled cheese sandwiches, mac and cheese, cheesesteaks, and various other recipes.
One of the standout characteristics of Cooper Sharp cheese is its ability to melt smoothly without the unpleasant aftertaste often associated with pre-wrapped cheese slices. This feature sets it apart from other cheeses and makes it a preferred choice for those seeking a natural-tasting, creamy texture in their dishes.
The unique flavour of Cooper Sharp cheese is described as having the sharpness of cheddar with a hint of salty Parmesan. This combination gives it a more pronounced taste than some other American cheese varieties, making it a popular choice for those seeking a bolder, more cheddar-forward flavour.
The aging process also contributes to the distinct character of Cooper Sharp cheese. The cheddar used in its production is aged for between 100 to 180 days, resulting in a more intense and complex flavour profile. This careful aging process, combined with its exceptional melting qualities, has earned Cooper Sharp cheese a loyal following, with many considering it a source of regional pride in the Northeast.
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Cooper Sharp is popular in the Northeastern US, especially Philadelphia
Cooper Sharp cheese is extremely popular in the Northeastern US, especially in Philadelphia. The cheese, which has been produced since 1893, is made by piping a liquified, pasteurized mix of whey, proteins, and emulsifiers into moulds and letting it harden. It has a more pronounced flavour than other cheeses, with a more distinct cheddar taste and a hint of salty Parmesan. It is also known for its superior melting qualities.
In Philadelphia, Cooper Sharp is used in a variety of dishes, including cheesesteaks, grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, and even breakfast sandwiches. The cheese is said to have a special place in the hearts of Philadelphians, with many people swearing by it as the perfect cheese for a cheesesteak. It is also used in many delis, taverns, and restaurants across the city.
The cheese's popularity in the Northeast can be attributed to its long history in the region. Since its start more than a century ago, Cooper Sharp has earned a loyal following, becoming a source of regional pride. For those who have grown up with the taste of Cooper Sharp, it evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia. It has become an integral part of the culinary culture of the Northeast, with many considering it the ultimate comfort food.
The unique flavour and texture of Cooper Sharp also contribute to its popularity. Its sharp, creamy, and savoury taste, along with its smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture, make it a versatile ingredient that can elevate a variety of dishes. Whether it's grilled cheese, mac and cheese, burgers, or salads, Cooper Sharp adds a delicious twist to both classic and creative recipes.
Beyond Philadelphia and the Northeast, Cooper Sharp has also gained a following in other parts of the country. Its reputation as one of the best American cheeses has attracted fans from New York and beyond, with many people discovering and falling in love with its unique taste and texture.
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Frequently asked questions
Cooper Sharp is a brand of American cheese. It is known for its superior melting qualities and is commonly used in dishes such as cheesesteaks, grilled cheese, mac and cheese, and burgers.
Cooper Sharp cheese is made by piping a liquified, pasteurized mix of whey, proteins, and emulsifiers into molds and letting it harden. The main component is cheddar, which is hand-selected and aged for between 100 to 180 days to give it its sharp flavor.
Cooper Sharp cheese is sold at supermarkets and used in delis, taverns, and restaurants, particularly in the Northeastern United States, including Philadelphia and New York. You can use the product locator on the Cooper website to find a retailer near you.
Cooper Sharp cheese is known for its melting qualities, so it is ideal for dishes that require melted cheese, such as grilled cheese sandwiches, mac and cheese, cheesesteaks, and burgers. It can also be used in eggs, salads, or any other dish that calls for American cheese.
