Kamil Perry
Cheddar cheese is a popular type of cheese that originated in the village of Cheddar in Somerset, England. It is known for its distinct flavour, versatility, and vibrant orange colour. The production of cheddar cheese can be traced back as far as the 12th century in this region. Traditional cheddar cheese was typically made from the milk of local Somerset cows, known for their rich and creamy milk. Over time, the popularity of cheddar cheese spread, and it is now produced and enjoyed in most parts of the world.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | Village of Cheddar in Somerset, England |
| Country of origin | England |
| Region of origin | Southwest England |
| Date of origin | 12th century |
| Traditional ingredients | Milk of local Somerset cows |
| Modern ingredients | Cow's milk, goat's milk, sheep's milk |
| Modern locations | Australia, Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, Sweden, Finland, Uruguay, the United States, Scotland, North America |
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What You'll Learn
- Cheddar cheese originates from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, southwest England
- Traditional cheddar cheese was made from the milk of local Somerset cows
- Cheddar cheese was introduced to Scotland and North America by Joseph Harding and his wife
- Cheddar cheese was introduced to Australia by Joseph Harding's son, Henry
- Cheddar cheese was introduced to New Zealand by Joseph Harding's other son, William
Cheddar cheese originates from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, southwest England
The caves in Cheddar Gorge, on the edge of the village, provided the ideal humidity and steady temperature for maturing the cheese. Cheddar traditionally had to be made within 30 miles of Wells Cathedral. The 19th-century Somerset dairyman Joseph Harding was central to the modernisation and standardisation of cheddar. Harding introduced new equipment to the process of cheese-making, including his "revolving breaker" for curd cutting, which saved a lot of manual effort.
Over time, the popularity of cheddar cheese spread, and it is now produced and enjoyed in most parts of the world. However, cheddar cheese from Somerset, England, is still prized for its authentic flavour and heritage. The Slow Food Movement has created a cheddar presidium, arguing that only three cheeses should be called "original cheddar". Their specifications require that cheddar be made in Somerset and with traditional methods, such as using raw milk, traditional animal rennet, and a cloth wrapping.
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Traditional cheddar cheese was made from the milk of local Somerset cows
Cheddar is typically made from cow's milk, although variations using goat's or sheep's milk also exist. The production of the cheese dates back to the 12th century and it is now made in various countries around the world, including the United States and New England.
In the United States, cheddar made in New England kept its natural white colour, while cheddar made in the Midwest was tinted orange with annatto. Similarly, cheddar cheeses made in the New England states, including Cabot Cheddar cheese made in Vermont, traditionally do not contain colour additives and retain their natural white colour.
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Cheddar cheese was introduced to Scotland and North America by Joseph Harding and his wife
Cheddar made in New England kept its natural white colour, while cheddar made in the Midwest was tinted orange with annatto. In the United States, the cheese is also made in Vermont, where it traditionally retains its natural white colour.
Cheddar cheese is now made in various countries around the world, but the original and most well-known version comes from England.
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Cheddar cheese was introduced to Australia by Joseph Harding's son, Henry
Cheddar cheese is now made in various countries around the world, including the United States and Australia. In the US, cheddar made in New England retains its natural white colour, while cheddar made in the Midwest is tinted orange with annatto.
Henry Harding likely brought the recipe for cheddar cheese with him to Australia, where it was then adapted to the local climate and ingredients. The introduction of cheddar cheese to Australia marked a significant step in the country's culinary history, as it provided a new and delicious option for cheese lovers.
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Cheddar cheese was introduced to New Zealand by Joseph Harding's other son, William
Cheddar cheese originates from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, southwest England. The cheese gets its name from this village, which is located in the county of Somerset. The village of Cheddar is known for its caves, which provided the ideal humidity and steady temperature for maturing the cheese.
Cheddar cheese has a long history dating back to the 12th century. It is now made in various countries around the world, including the United States and New Zealand. However, the original and most well-known version of cheddar cheese comes from England.
In the United States, cheddar cheese made in New England retains its natural white colour, while cheddar made in the Midwest is tinted orange with annatto, a natural, plant-based colouring.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheddar cheese originates from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, southwest England.
The production of Cheddar cheese can be traced back to the 12th century.
Joseph Harding and his wife introduced Cheddar cheese to Scotland and North America.
