The Complete Guide to Buying Blue Cheese
Introduction
Blue cheese is a type of cheese that is known for its unique flavor and appearance. It is made by adding Penicillium mold to the cheese during the aging process, which gives it its distinctive blue or green veins. This type of cheese is often crumbly and has a sharp, tangy taste.
Types of Blue Cheese
There are many different types of blue cheese, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Some of the most common types of blue cheese include Roquefort, Gorgonzola, Stilton, and Danish Blue.
Roquefort is a blue cheese that is made from sheep's milk and aged in natural caves in the Roquefort region of France. It has a strong, tangy flavor and a creamy texture.
Gorgonzola is a blue cheese that is made from cow's milk and originated in Italy. It has a sharp, tangy flavor and a crumbly texture.
Stilton is a blue cheese that is made from cow's milk and originated in the English village of Stilton. It has a rich, earthy flavor and a creamy texture.
Danish Blue is a blue cheese that is made from cow's milk and originated in Denmark. It has a mild, creamy flavor and a soft, crumbly texture.
Choosing Blue Cheese
When choosing blue cheese, there are a few things to consider.
First, think about the type of blue cheese that you want. If you want a strong, tangy flavor, then Roquefort or Gorgonzola may be the best choice. If you want a rich, earthy flavor, then Stilton may be the best choice. If you want a mild, creamy flavor, then Danish Blue may be the best choice.
Second, consider the texture of the blue cheese. Some blue cheeses are crumbly, while others are creamy. Choose a texture that you enjoy and that will work well in the dish that you are making.
Third, look at the appearance of the blue cheese. The veins of blue or green mold should be clearly visible and evenly distributed throughout the cheese. The cheese should also be free of any dark or moldy spots.
Fourth, consider the price of the blue cheese. Blue cheese can vary in price depending on the type and the quality. Choose a blue cheese that fits within your budget and that offers good value for money.
Using Blue Cheese
Blue cheese can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and sandwiches to soups and sauces. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a tasty snack.
To use blue cheese in a salad, crumble it over mixed greens and drizzle with a vinaigrette dressing. The tangy flavor of the blue cheese will complement the crispness of the greens and the acidity of the dressing.
To use blue cheese in a sandwich, spread it on slices of crusty bread and top with sliced chicken or ham. The creamy texture of the blue cheese will melt and create a delicious, gooey filling for the sandwich.
To use blue cheese in a soup or sauce, stir it into the hot liquid until it is melted and well-combined. The tangy flavor of the blue cheese will add depth and complexity to the soup or sauce.
Blue cheese can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack. Simply slice it into small pieces and serve it with crackers or slices of fruit. The sharp, tangy flavor of the blue cheese will be the perfect complement to the crunchiness of the crackers or the sweetness of the fruit.
Conclusion
Blue cheese is a unique and delicious type of cheese that is perfect for adding flavor and depth to a variety of dishes. When choosing blue cheese, consider the type, texture, appearance, and price. Use blue cheese in salads, sandwiches, soups, sauces, or as a tasty snack on its own. With its tangy, sharp flavor and creamy or crumbly texture, blue cheese is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal.