We all know cheese is a delicious and versatile food that can be enjoyed in many different ways, from snacking on a slice Yorkshire Blue to topping a pizza with crumbed Mrs Bell's Salad Cheese. However, storing cheese properly is crucial to ensuring that it stays fresh and tasty for as long as possible. Here are some tips on how to store cheese at home:
Keep it cool:
Cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, preferably in the cheese drawer or a separate compartment where the temperature is slightly warmer than the rest of the fridge. The ideal temperature range for most cheeses is between 1 and 3 degrees celsius. If the cheese is left at room temperature for too long, it can start to spoil and develop mould or bacteria.
Wrap it up
Cheese should be wrapped in wax paper, parchment paper, cheese paper or even beeswax wraps to help it retain moisture while allowing it to breathe. Avoid wrapping cheese in plastic wrap, as it can cause the cheese to sweat and promote the growth of mould. If the cheese comes in a plastic wrapper, transfer it to a paper wrap or container.
Keep it separate
Stronger-smelling cheeses like our blue cheese or stinking bishop should be stored separately from other cheeses to prevent their flavours from mixing. You can use separate containers or wrap them individually to keep them from coming into contact with each other.
Don't freeze it
While some cheeses can be frozen, it's generally not recommended as freezing can affect the texture and flavour of the cheese. If you must freeze cheese, cut it in to small pieces, grate it and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil and then thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
Use it in time
Cheese doesn't last forever (sadly), and different types of cheese have different shelf lives. Hard cheeses like cheddar or parmesan can last for several months in the refrigerator, while softer cheeses like brie or camembert may only last for a week or two. Check the expiration date on the cheese and use it before it goes bad.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your cheese stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible. With the right storage techniques, you can enjoy your favourite cheeses whenever the craving strikes!