There are a thousand different types of cheese, and we’re not sure if we’ll ever be able to try them all, but we can learn a little about them. Before we get into the different types and applications of cheese, let us first define what cheese is and how it is obtained. Cheese is a milk derivative product derived primarily from the coagulation of a milk protein known as casein.
Cheese is usually solid in nature and melts when heated. The entire process of making cheese involves acidifying the milk, adding the appropriate amount of the necessary ingredients, salt, and bacterial enzymes like rennet, then heating it to 110°c, separating the solid curd and the residual liquid called whey, and finally compressing the split solids into desired shapes.
There are approximately a thousand different types of cheese in the world, depending on factors such as milk type, pasteurization, ingredients used, the process it goes through, and its age. The flavors, colors, and textures of the cheeses vary.
Though there are many different types of cheese, only a few are widely available in the market and are extremely important and popular. Here is a list of some commonly used cheese varieties and their applications:
1. Mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella is the most well-known cheese in the world. It is commonly found in foods such as pizza, pasta, lasagne, and sandwiches. Its origins can be traced back to southern Italy, and its traditional preparation includes Buffalo milk.
- Mozzarella is a soft cheese that melts and becomes chewy when heated.
- It is widely used in pizza.
2. Cheddar cheese
Did you know that Cheddar is one of the most nutrient-dense cheeses? This is due to its high protein and calorie content. It comes from various parts of England and is named after the Cheddar village. With age, the taste and sourness keep improving. This is not a creamy cheese that is commonly used in grills and main cheese courses.
- Cheddar contains a lot of protein.
- It has a sharp and distinct flavor that compliments the dish.
3. Cottage cheese
This popular cheese has its origins in India. It’s soft, sweet, and fluffy, and it’s made simply by curdling full cream milk and separating the solid from the water, then compressing it into shapes. Because it is easily digestible, cottage cheese is commonly used in dishes that call for a creamy flavor, such as paneer butter masala, butter chicken, salads, and so on.
- Cottage cheeses have a mild flavor and are soft and chewy.
- It is only found in Indian cuisine. It’s also delicious on salads. (When eaten raw, it tastes better.)
4. Feta cheese
This salty and sour cheese was created in Greece by combining sheep and goat milk. Some types of feta cheese are made entirely of goat milk. Because it is creamy and has a high nutrient profile, it is the first choice for salads and soups.
- This is a one-of-a-kind cheese made from a combination of sheep and goat milk.
- The flavor and taste are very similar to cottage cheese.
5. Gouda cheese
Here’s a cheese with a sweet flavor. Gouda cheese, like wine, improves in taste and quality with age. It was created in the Dutch city of Gouda, hence the name. This cheese is commonly used in casseroles, but it is also used in macaroni, grills, salads, and sandwiches.
– Adding a slice of this aged cheese to your dish adds a sharp flavor.
– You can use Gouda cheese to make any dish stretchy or chewy.
6. Blue cheese
Blue cheese is a type of cheese that has been cultured with penicillium. They have blue spots, hence the name, and are also known as ‘Gorgonzola’. It has no known origin and is well known for its odor. It has been shown to have numerous therapeutic properties. This is commonly crumbled or melted and used as a topping.
– Blue cheese has a distinct aroma and flavor.
– It could be grated and topped, or melted and added to give your dish a new flavor.
7. Emmental
Making Emmental is a difficult task. Switzerland deserves the credit. Yes! It is one of the many types of Swiss cheese, and it is distinguished by the presence of gas holes. It has a sweet taste because it is made by combining fruits with cow’s milk. Emmental cheese complements wine and fruit salads best.
– Emmental cheese is best consumed raw.
– Add this cheese to salads or any raw dish.
Whether it is the stringy Mozzarella or any other cheese, adding a bit of cheese can make any dish taste finger-licking good!
To meet the ever-increasing demand for this food, traditional cheese-making gradually gave way to industrial, mass-produced cheese. Today, more than 1000 different types of cheese are produced worldwide, with newer variants and flavors being added on a daily basis.
Author Bio:
Hi, I’m Rana and I blog at ranasrecipe.com. My passion for food began very early in my life. And after managing a cafe, a granola business and helping other food businesses scale up, I found my true calling in creating wonderful recipes so that everyone can enjoy cooking as much as I do! Don’t forget to follow me on my social channels- instagram and pinterest.
