Artisan cheese has made a massive comeback with the ever-growing popularity of charcuterie boards. Artisan cheeses are unlike big corporation-produced cheeses because they are made with a sense of art. They are small batched, and their taste and quality blow the others out of the water! Let’s dive into the world of delicious artisan cheese.
What is Artisan Cheese?
Characteristics
Artisan cheese is a small-batch cheese made from local ingredients on a much smaller scale than commercial cheese. It is held to a higher standard and offers better taste and quality.
Difference From Commercial Cheese
The most significant difference from commercial cheeses is the focus on quality and flavor over quantity. Commercial cheese is designed to be made quickly and get a considerable portion to as many grocers as possible around the state or country.
Artisan cheeses are artificial-free and contain no preservatives. These cheeses are as natural as can be, aiding in better health and even better digestion.
Varieties and Uniqueness
There are many varieties of artisan cheese that change the flavors and textures. Some are mild cheeses, great for freshly baked crackers, and some offer a more pungent taste that only true cheese lovers can enjoy!
This all depends on the type of milk used and the aging process. Depending on the maker, they will use different local ingredients to flavor and age appropriately. So, all artisan cheeses will have a unique flavor and texture that commercial cheeses could never copy.
Types of Artisan Cheese
Fresh Cheeses
Fresh cheeses consist of mozzarella and ricotta. These cheeses are soft and just only hold their shape. They consist of a milf flavor and a short aging process.
Soft Ripened Cheeses
Soft-ripened cheeses include brie and camembert. They have a soft center, an edible rind, and a flavorful yet earthy taste. These are the perfect warm-baked cheeses that make cracker dipping incredibly delicious.
Semi Hard and Hard Cheeses
Semi-hard and hard cheeses include parmesan, gouda, and cheddar. These cheeses are characterized by their firm texture and more funky flavor. These have a long aging process in order to develop that yummy, funky flavor.
Blue Cheeses
Clue cheeses consist of the famous blue cheese, Roquefort, gorgonzola, and stilton. These cheeses have thing veins with mold—yes, mold— that helps keep them easily distinguishable to their pungent flavor and aroma. Some love these cheeses, while others tend to steer clear.
Storing and Enjoying Artisan Cheeses at Home
You can easily store these cheeses by folding them into wax paper to allow the cheese to be able to breath in your refrigerator. Artisan cheese is meant to be served at room temperature, so placing them out before a party and allowing them to sit is perfectly safe.
Always serve these cheeses with various breads, crackers, fruits, and jams. Once the party ends, you can serve these cheeses in sandwiches, salads, and even pasta dishes!
Wrapping Up Enjoying the World Of Artisan Cheese
Now that you know the wonder and enjoyment of artisan cheese, you may just want to dive in head first and try some funky fresh cheese! Support local artisans and allow yourself to come up with fun and unique serving creations!
