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A Delicious Holiday Brunch Buffet for Everyone
The holidays are upon us, which hopefully means lots of family sleepovers! If everyone is up and at ’em at different times of the morning, it’s tough to make the perfect hot and made-to-order breakfast for everyone. Take a look at some of these ideas for a five-star brunch experience for your guests in the comfort of your home.
Kiflis: An Eastern European Holiday Staple
Last week we posted some pictures of some AMAZING Hungarian Cookies that have been a huge hit. Both the online response and in store sales have been overwhelming. So, we wanted to take a few minutes to give you a little info on the history of these cookies and the bakery that makes them!
Celebrating National Hot Breakfast Month
Can you believe February is actually National Hot Breakfast Month?
With that in mind, we’ve got some ideas for hot breakfasts to energize you in the morning!
Chocolate Croissants
Take some crescent rolls and roll them up with pieces of chocolate inside. Bake in the oven until the rolls are golden brown and the chocolate is melted. These make a great breakfast that will surprise your family any day of the week!
Crepes
Crepes are simply a delicious thin pancake that can be filled with toppings both sweet and savory.
You will need:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
0.25 teaspoon salt
1.5 cups of milk
3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
How to make the crepes:
- Mix all ingredients in a blender. This will create a puree and will ensure that all of the ingredients are mixed well. If you don’t have a blender you can do this by hand, but ensure that you mix thoroughly.
- Bubbles will form on the top when the batter is ready. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. If you are preparing ahead for a dinner party, it can be kept in the fridge for 1 day.
- Heat a non-stick 12inch skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter and allow this to melt and coat the pan.
- Add 1/3 of a cup of batter, swirl it to evenly cover the pan, and cook until golden brown. This should take 2 to 3 minutes.
- Carefully flip the crepe using a silicone spatula. Cook for another minute and remove from the pan.
- Continue with the remaining batter, adding butter before each crepe.
Oatmeal
It’s a classic for a reason! If you need fueling up for a full morning then oatmeal is nearly always the one to go for. You’ll have your own favorite way of making it, whether it’s with water or milk, and that’s one of the best things about it. Why not try a new topping? Peanut butter, jams, fresh fruit, seeds, you name it and it can be popped on top of a bowl of oatmeal!
Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a Mediterranean breakfast dish.
Preheat your oven to 350F. Start by cooking down one chopped clove of garlic, a sliced onion and a sliced red pepper in an ovenproof frying pan. You want them to be cooked until they are really soft. Add a tin of chopped tomatoes and a teaspoon each of ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
When ready, make 4 small wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each one. Pop the whole pan into the oven for around 10 minutes. Watch closely so that the eggs are cooked how you like them. Once removed from the oven, a sprinkle of fresh coriander can add freshness. Simply serve with fresh bread for dipping in the delicious sauce.
What’s your favorite hot breakfast? Let us know in the comments!
Discover Our Amazing Gift Boxes
Did you know that we have such a huge range of gift boxes? Read on to find out what’s in each one.
Gift Box #1: Baby Swiss Cheese
Having the whole family around during the holiday season? Grab this gift box that contains a whole 4Lb. Baby Swiss Cheese Wheel. Our Baby Swiss is made in Charm Ohio, by the original producer Guggisberg Cheese. It is a young, semi-soft whole milk cheese with small holes and a mild flavor. It also comes with chocolates for those with a sweet tooth!
Gift Box #2: Troyer’s Trail Bologna and Cheese
In this gift box, you’ll receive a 1Lb. Troyer’s Trail Bologna Ring. This is a chunky, all-beef bologna with a smoky taste, created by the fourth generation of the Troyer family. You’ll also find a 3/4Lb. wheel of Farmer’s cheese and a 3/4Lb. wheel of Colby cheese. Farmer’s Cheese is a mild, unripened white cheese made by adding rennet to cow’s milk. It’s a firm and crumbly cheese; the perfect accompaniment to smoked meats. The Colby cheese provides a lovely contrast, as it is a semi-hard cow’s milk cheese with a mild and creamy taste. We always pop in some assorted chocolates for those after-dinner cravings.
As the name suggests, this really is a cheesy box! You’ll receive a 3/4Lb. wheel each of Cheddar, Cojack (Marble), Farmer’s Cheese and Pepper Jack. Marble Cheese is made from both Colby and Monterey Jack cheese, which is why it is sometimes called “Cojack”. Pepper Jack is a cow’s milk cheese that has been given a spicy intensity through the use of jalapeno, serrano, and habanero peppers. Along with the classics Cheddar and Farmer’s Cheese, you’re sure to have the best cheese board in the neighborhood.
Gift Box #4: Amish Cheese and Goodies
This is the perfect box for a party, or to give to someone who really deserves a treat during this season. Inside you will find a 1Lb. Baby Swiss Cheese Wheel, 1 Summer Sausage Link, a 3/4Lb. wheel each of Colby and Pepper Jack cheese, Shisler’s Private Label Mustard, Home Style Amish Jam, Carr’s Crackers, Assorted Chocolates, and 6oz. of REACH Coffee.
Gift Box #5: Baby Swiss Cheese and Troyer’s Trail Bologna
A classic Amish Country combination. This box contains a 4Lb. Baby Swiss Cheese Wheel, a large Troyer’s Trail Bologna Ring, Shisler’s Private Label Mustard, Carr’s Crackers, Assorted Chocolates and 6oz. of REACH coffee.
REACH coffee is a specialty grade coffee from the region of Chanchamayo, Peru, which is then roasted in Cleveland, Ohio. Perfect for those after dinner pick-me-ups.
Gift Box #6: Amish Country Sampler Gift Box
This box is the King of gift boxes. You’ll need help to carry this one! It contains a Large Troyer’s Trail Bologna Ring, a box of Heggy’s Chocolates, Home Style Amish Jam, Shisler’s Private Label Hot Jalapeno Mustard, a 3/4Lb. wheel each of Cheddar, Cojack (Marble), Farmer’s Cheese and Pepper Jack, a Baby Swiss Cheese Wedge, a Summer Sausage Link, Townhouse Crackers and 6oz. of REACH Coffee.
Which one of these would you love to open? Let us know in the comments!
Christmas Gift Boxes for the Whole Family
With Christmas fast approaching, we thought the time had come to remind our lovely customers about our wonderful range of gift boxes.
Our Deluxe Gift Box contains more of our favorite Amish products than ever:
- Troyer’s Trail Bologna Ring 1 Lb.
- Shisler’s Gift Mug with 1/2 Pound of Heggy’s Chocolates
- Shisler’s Private Label Apple Butter
- Shisler’s Private Label Hot Mustard
- Wheel of Colby 3/4 Lb.
- Wheel of Cojack (Marble) 3/4 Lb.
- Block of Swiss Cheese
- Baby Swiss Cheese Wedge
- Summer Sausage Link
- Crackers
- Muffin mix
- Shisler’s Cheese House T-Shirt
The Troyer’s Trail Bologna Ring is a chunky, all-beef bologna with a smoky taste, created by the fourth generation of the Troyer family. Our gift mug helps lovers of Shisler’s Cheese House share their pride as they drink their morning coffee. We’ve filled it with 1/2 a pound of Heggy’s Chocolates.
Shisler’s Private Label Apple Butter is made from the best locally grown Apples and locally produced Amish Butter, perfect for spreading on toast or stirring into your recipes. We also love our Private Label Mustard, which can be used as a dipping mustard or spread into sandwiches.
Colby cheese is a semi-hard cow’s milk cheese native to the United States. It is very mild and creamy. Cojack cheese is a blend of Monterey Jack and Colby cheese, marbled together to create a striking effect. Monterey Jack is a buttery, semi-firm cheese which originated in California. It is usually only aged for around a month, making it a fresh, fairly soft cheese to enjoy.
Swiss Cheese is a holey, semi-hard cheese with a creamy color. It has a nutty, slightly piquant flavor whilst simultaneously being somewhat creamy. You’ll also get a wedge of Baby Swiss Cheese, which substitutes water for the milk’s whey to slow the bacterial action. This creates smaller holes and a milder flavor. With all of this cheese, we’ve given you crackers so that you have something to enjoy it with!
Summer Sausage can be kept without refrigeration, which is how it gained its name. Ours is smoked, rather than dried, with a tangy taste. It’s certainly too good to be kept for only the Summer season. Muffin mixes provide a great way to whip up some quick baking that your guests will love, without any stress.
Finally, because you’re clearly a huge Shisler’s Cheese House fan if you’re digging into this gift box, you’ll find your very own Shisler’s Cheese House t-shirt!
Our Amish Cheese and Goodies collection is another perfect gift for your loved ones this Christmas.You’ll find a 1Lb. Baby Swiss Wheel, a summer sausage link, a ¾ Lb. wheel each of Colby and Pepper Jack cheese, Shisler’s Private Label Mustard, home style Amish jam, Carr’s crackers, assorted chocolates and 6oz. REACH coffee.
One of our other great gifts is the Troyer’s Trail Bologna and Cheese box. Inside you will find a 1Lb. Troyer’s Trail Bologna ring, a ¾ Lb. wheel each of Colby and Farmer’s cheese and assorted chocolates.
We all know someone who really loves cheese, and that’s why we created the Cheese Lover’s Gift Box. This contains a ¾ Lb. wheel each of Cheddar, Cojack, Farmer’s Cheese and Pepper Jack, along with some assorted chocolates.
Check back in the coming weeks as we’ll share more reminders about our delicious Christmas gift boxes!
Show Your Support This Veteran’s Day
As today is Veteran’s Day and we are passionate supports of our veterans, we wanted to share our Veteran’s Day Care Package with you.
This is a great way to remind our heroes that we still appreciate all they do! It is perfect as a gift for our veterans or as active duty military care packages. We have included less perishable options than some of our other gift boxes, for those who wish to send a care package to military personnel stationed overseas.
There really is nothing like a little taste of home to let our men and women in uniform know they are appreciated. We will ship to any FPO-AP address via U.S. Postal service. We will also show our appreciation for our men and women in uniform by donating a portion of the proceeds from every package sold to The Wounded Warrior Project.
The Veteran’s Day Care Package Includes:
- Baby Swiss Cheese Wheel (2 Lbs.)
- Trail Bologna Ring or Beef Jerky (In non-perishable option)
- Clem’s Hot Pepper Relish – delicious with cheese and crackers!
- Banana Split Mix – cranberries, banana chips, almonds, chocolate covered peanuts, chocolate drops, pineapple tidbits, raisins, yogurt covered peanuts, peanuts, and yogurt drops all mixed together for a great trail mix
- Amish Peanut Butter Spread
- Amish Homestyle Jam
- Carr’s Crackers
We know that you love to show your appreciation and, to us, food is the perfect way to do that.
Here at Shisler’s Cheese House, we also make a range of gift boxes if the Veteran’s Care Package isn’t quite right for you.
Our Football Season Special is perfect for sports lovers. It contains Swiss Cheese, Troyer’s Trail Bologna, Pepper Jack Cheese, Shisler’s Private Label Mustard, Shisler’s Private Label Hot Pepper Relish, and Carr’s Crackers.
The Fall Harvest Collection celebrates the best flavors of fall in Amish Country. You’ll find Baby Swiss Cheese (2 Lbs.), Streb Meats Smoked Sausage (1 Lb.), Cranberry Delight (1 Lb.), Pumpkin Muffin Mix, Pumpkin Butter, and Popcorn on the Cob inside.
If you want to show your support to a beer and cheese lover, then our Beer Collection is absolutely the gift for you. It contains enough Brick, Gouda, Gruyere, and Ohio Premium Swiss Cheese to entertain 20 people. These cheeses have been chosen for their strong flavors which pair beautifully with beer. We recommend trying out a few different beers to compare the tasting experience.
Finally, our Hot Stuff Collection has everything that you might need for someone who lives spice and heat. Enjoy trying Hot Pepper Cheese, Habanero Cheese, Troyer’s Trail Bologna with Hot Pepper Cheese, Shisler’s Private Label Hot Pepper Relish, Shisler’s Private Label Hot Jalapeno Mustard, Hot Pepper Jelly, and Carr’s Crackers. Be warned, you might need a cooling glass of milk on hand.
Do get in touch if you have any questions about any of our gift boxes, but especially if you would like to get a Veteran’s Day care package for a special someone to recognise their service this month.
We’d also love for you to take a look at the work of the Wounded Warrior Project and consider supporting them in their efforts.
American Cheese – The Complete Guide
![Wine cheese banner](https://www.cheesehouse.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/poster_board_Wine_cheese_banner.jpg)
America’s love for CHEESE is known to the world! Not only as top manufacturers but also as the highest cheese consumers, Americans seem to have aced the taste and mastered the art of all things cheese. The United States offers hundreds of varieties and styles of cheese perfectly crafted to cater to global cuisines and satiate the palates of customers across the globe. Be it a burger, pizza, or pasta, it is incomplete without a great-tasting cheese.
But where did so much love for cheese come from? If history is anything to go by, Americans have inherited their passion for cheese-making and relished it from their ancestors. Nevertheless, over the past decades and centuries, American cheese has undergone an immense transformation. It has changed not only in terms of the manufacturing process but also in terms of variety. From its taste and texture to its packaging and supply, everything has only improved over the years. Let’s find out where it all began. Ready to buy some of your own cheese? Check out our selection!
History of American Cheese
The process of cheese-making dates back to the era when most of the Americans preferred to make it at home, either to consume at home or to sell in the local market. During this time, a variety of European styles persisted in non-commercial cheese-making. However, American industry soon caught up with the manufacturing process and mastered the skill of one type – Cheddar, which went on to become one of America’s most popular cheeses. Cheddar, subsequently, became a common man’s cheese, so much so that Americans simply called it ‘yellow cheese’ or ‘store cheese’.
The United States saw its first cheese revolution in 1851 when Jesse Williams created the first cheese factory in New York. A few decades later, in 1903, James L. Kraft moved to Chicago from Canada and started wholesaling cheese. Slowly came in the concept of processed cheese and cheese singles or slices. Today, considering the amount of cheese that is manufactured in the U.S., it has become the best suited source for the global cheese supply.
Cheddar Cheese
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The yellow-orange American cheddar caught the fancy of Americans in the 19th century, which continues today. Cheddar cheese remained the most popular and favourite cheese for the longest time, and currently is the second-favourite after mozzarella with consumption of around 9.6 pounds per capita in 2014, which rose to 11.07 per capita in 2017, as stated by the United States Department of Agriculture.
Although cheddar cheese has a texture similar to its counterparts, what gives it the yellow-orange tinge that differentiates it from the rest? Being milk products, usually, all types of cheese are white or sometimes light yellow, depending upon the milk used. But cheddar is orange. Why? That’s surely not the original colour of the milk it is made from, right? The colour is instead derived from the flavourless Annatto seeds, which are extracted from the tropical Achiote tree. That is what gives Wisconsin cheddar its yellow-golden-orange tinge.
Manufacturing
Interestingly, cheddar cheese gets its name from the process of ‘cheddaring’ during manufacturing. To begin with, the curd and whey are separated using rennet – an enzyme. Then comes cheddaring; an additional step, especially followed to prepare cheddar cheese. Here, after heating, the curd is kneaded with salt, and the whey is drained by cutting it into small pieces, stacked and turned. Vintage cheddar, commonly known as mature or “sharp” cheddar is matured for 15 months or more. The cheese requires special facilities to be kept at a constant temperature. Some cheddar cheese is even matured in the caves.
Cheese : Health Benefits
![American cheese guide](https://www.cheesehouse.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/plant-based-proteins-banner.jpg)
Contrary to what many people think, cheese is healthy and a great source of calcium, high-quality protein and fat. It contains a good amount of vitamin A and vitamin B12. Additionally, it offers other nutrients like phosphorus, zinc and riboflavin. Cheese, if made of 100% grass-fed animals, is one of the richest sources of various nutrients, which also contains vitamin K2 and omega-3 fatty acids. Fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin A are retained in the curd at the time of the manufacturing process. This makes cheese a wholesome food.
Cheese is almost essential for good bone health. Calcium helps to maximize peak bone mass and promote rapid skeletal growth to reduce the risk of osteoporosis during late adulthood.
Let’s read about various health benefits cheese has to offer :
This happens to be the primary concern for most of the people who give up cheese – weight gain. However, there is no reason to give up on something that does not necessarily cause weight gain. A wide variety of cheeses of varied calorie and fat content are available in the market. All you need to do is switch to a low-calorie cheese, and you will be fine! Naturally, low-fat cheeses like part-skim mozzarella, cottage cheese or ricotta can be your best bet. Keeping in mind the current trend, US cheese manufacturers have started producing lower-fat cheeses that are low in calories without compromising on the quality, taste, texture and colour.
Moreover, consuming calcium-rich dairy products is consciously becoming a common food habit. Hence, including cheese in your diet may help immensely towards controlling body weight. It can help obese adults to lose bodyweight or body fat when it is eaten as a part of a reduced-calorie diet. According to clinical trials, those who take three to four servings of milk, cheese or yogurt a day while on a low-calorie diet tend to lose more weight and gain more lean muscle mass compared to those who abstain from dairy products.
Cheese reduces the risk of various dental ailments like cavities; it may protect against root cavities, and dental problems commonly found among adults. Additionally, consuming cheese in between meals or snacks may be a good way to ward off tooth decay. Dental cavities are a result of the breakdown of tooth enamel when there are acid-forming dental plaque bacteria that ferment starch and dietary sugar. This process is known as demineralization. Hence, if remineralisation occurs at a faster rate than demineralization, it preserves the quality of teeth for a much longer period. Research has proven that cheese not only prevents acid demineralization of tooth enamel but also supports remineralisation of minor cavities.
Believe it or not, various studies say that cheese has anti-cavity properties. Some varieties of cheese that promote good dental health are Swiss, Blue, Brick, Monterey Jack, Brie, Aged Cheddar, American Processed Cheese, Mozzarella and Gouda.
Moreover, frequent consumption of cheese stimulates the flow of saliva, which has properties to reduce/fight cavities. The protein, calcium and phosphorus present in cheese help neutralize acids and thereby prevent tooth decay. American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommend cheese as a nutritious snack for children and young adults.
According to Dietary Guidelines for Americans, consumption of dairy products is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases in adults. Although cheese is a source of saturated fat, research findings have doubts about the role of saturated fat in increasing cardiovascular diseases. On the contrary, studies have suggested that dairy products like cheese have a beneficial effect on the heart and its overall health. In comparison to butter, cheese is believed to lower the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) and increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL). Cheese, when taken in moderation, can help to reduce risk factors for heart diseases like hypertension atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), and blood clots. .
Dietary patterns such as DASH – Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension can help further. It is a low-fat diet which includes three servings of dairy foods a day, for instance, regular low-fat cheeses, yogurt and low-fat or toned milk. Cheese may also have a beneficial role in reducing metabolic syndrome, which is responsible for cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes.
When it comes to children, cheese can serve as one of the best snacks – healthy, nutritious and filling at the same time. Especially when you are travelling, the various on-the-go varieties of cheese like sticks, slices/singles, cubes and shreds are quite convenient to carry. Cheese consumption in moderation with the meal or as a snack for children is common in the US. It not only provides energy and nutrients required for proper growth and development, but also supports bone health, protects teeth from cavities and lowers body fat.
Gastrointestinal symptoms or problems such as diarrhoea and bloating are usually caused by lactose intolerance. Lactose is one of the principal carbohydrates present in the milk. When the lactose in the milk products is not digested completely, it causes a disturbance in intestine resulting into gastrointestinal symptoms. However, if you think that eating cheese is one of the leading causes for your indigestion, you need a reality check!
Many varieties of cheese – hard as well as natural like cheddar, Colby, Swiss, Monterey jack, etc. contain very little or no lactose at all. Additionally, it has been studied that all those who have been lactose intolerant can consume aged cheeses without any difficulty in digestion. In fact, the American Academy of Paediatrics, the National Medical Association and the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend aged cheeses for all those who suffer from lactose intolerance.
Various Styles of Cheese
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- Block
- Barrel
- Loaf
- Daisy
- Wheel
- Moon
- Longhorn
- Cubed & crumbled
- Slices, singles, grated, shredded
- Stringed cheese
Types of Cheese based on Popularity
Here are the popular varieties of cheeses available in the US market and consumed by Americans.
- Cheddar
- Colby
- Cream Cheese
- Monterey Jack
- Mozzarella
- Pasteurised Processed Cheese
- Reduced Fat Cheeses
- Ricotta
- Shredded Cheeses
- Swiss
Types of Cheese based on the Degree of Hardness
The cheeses mentioned above are based on popularity and consumption. Now, let’s see the types of cheese based on the degree of hardness – from soft, creamy cheese to hard, grated cheese and powders. This too is a common way of organising cheese varieties :
Soft-Fresh Cheeses
![Types of cheeses like soft-fresh are best suitable for using as spreads or sprinkling over salad due to its texture.](https://www.cheesehouse.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/caciotta-pecorino-w_caciotta.jpg)
- Cottage cheese
- Cream cheese – plain & flavoured
- Feta
- Mascarpone
- Neufchâtel – plain & flavoured
- Queso Blanco
- Ricotta – whole milk, low-fat, fat-free
Soft-fresh cheeses are mainly referred to as acid-set or direct-set. Manufacturing these cheeses includes coagulation of milk with lactic acid, lemon juice, vinegar or a similar acid that is directly added to the milk, instead of rennet and enzymes. Later, the whey is drained from soft cheeses using gravity rather than mechanical pressure. This gives the cheese its velvety texture and higher moisture content. Many soft cheeses are packed in tubs, without being cut, pressed into a form or aged. The moisture content in such types of cheeses is the highest, which make them excellent ingredients for fillings and spreads. They are made from top-quality US milk and have a mild, delicate and creamy flavour.
As mentioned above, soft-fresh cheeses make for great cheese spreads, dips and fillings due to their flexible texture. Use to toss in the salad, dip your favourite bites, sprinkle on your salad or use it as pasta/ravioli fillings – soft-fresh cheese never disappoints. The naturally salty feta cheese goes well with the bland vegetables in the salad. Also, these cheeses are excellent binders often used to put together various ingredients. Additionally, the low-fat and no-fat versions are great options to explore for those who are on restricted diets.
Soft Ripened Cheeses
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- Brie (single, double and triple cream and flavoured)
- Camembert
Soft ripened cheeses get their identity from the white mould that forms the outer rind. The mould allows the cheese to ripen from the outside as seen when cutting such type of cheeses. The area closer to the rind softens first and becomes semi-liquid while the centre is firmer and creamier, at times. The more ripened the cheese, the softer the texture, with distinct aroma and flavours.
Such types of cheeses are perfect for cheese platters and even cold appetizers. The soft-ripened cheeses in the US are made from pasteurised milk, ensuring high-quality, and are safe for consumption.
Semi-Soft Cheeses
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- Brick, dry
- Washed-rind
- Colby jack
- Fontina
- Havarti
- Limburger
- Monterey jack
- Muenster
- Pepper jack
Semi-soft cheeses are always made with whole milk and never with part-skim milk. Some manufacturers prefer to add cream in the process. The entire process, especially the main ingredient – whole milk is responsible for the soft, creamy texture and excellent melting ability. Semi-soft cheese can be further categorized into dry-rind and washed-rind. Washed-rind cheeses are surface-treated with a bacterial smear and then washed with a solution to encourage the smear to grow. Washed-rind cheeses ripen from the outside in. Dry-rind cheeses are cured without a surface treatment. Semi-soft cheeses can be cubed, shredded, sliced and melted. They have some stretch, and they can be broiled and browned.
Semi-soft cheeses have great melting ability, and this makes them suitable for soups, sauces, casseroles and roulades. They easily blend with any other cheese as well as with various ingredients to make a delicious pizza sauce. The sliced forms are ideal for sandwiches and wraps.
Blue-veined Cheese
![cheese wine pairings](https://www.cheesehouse.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/content_different-cheese-wine-pairings.jpg)
- Blue cheese
- Gorgonzola, creamy & crumbly style
Various blue moulds are added directly to the milk. Stainless steel needles are used to pierce the body of the cheese to allow oxygen in and carbon dioxide out of the interior, enabling the mould to thrive. If the cheese has been in vacuum packaging for some time, it will appear almost entirely white. The cheese will start turning its colour to blue as soon as the bag is removed.
Crumble into salads, use them in dressing, soups or sauces, the blue cheeses give you a perfect reason to whip up a tasty gourmet. And the credit goes to its soft, creamy texture and unique taste that goes well with most of the American foods.
Gouda & Edam
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- Gouda
- Smoked gouda
- Edam
The manufacturers use specific starter cultures and only the highest quality milk to produce these ‘sweet-curd’ cheeses. The primary difference is that gouda is produced with whole milk, while edam is made with part-skim. Various herbs and spices are added to the curd to get flavoured gouda cheese.
Prepare sauce, soups, dips from them or use them as slices. Gouda is available in different flavours while edam slices can be used in sandwiches, burgers or wraps. It is also a popular choice for gourmet pizza sauces.
Pasta Filata Cheeses
![Cheese guide](https://www.cheesehouse.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/BANNER-OUR-MENU-2.jpg)
- Fresh mozzarella
- Individually Quick Frozen mozzarella (IQF)
- Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella
- Low-moisture, whole milk mozzarella
- Part-skim mozzarella
- Provolone, mild, aged and smoked
- Pizza cheese
- String cheese
- Whole milk mozzarella
These cheeses are named for the unique process of pulling the curds while they are dipped in hot water. They are prepared from the curd similar to semi-soft and firm cheeses. It involves warming of the milk and adding starter cultures and enzymes. After heating and stretching the curd, it is moulded. If it is mozzarella cheese, the moulded cheese is immersed in cold water, cooled in brine and packaged soon after.
Pasta filata cheeses are highly used in salads, sandwiches, au gratins and stuffing for snack bites. The ability to melt is what makes them a favourable cheese. String cheese has recently gained popularity among children. These cheeses can be sliced, shredded and cubed, hence flexible to use in various gourmet preparations.
Processed Cheese
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- Pasteurized processed cheese
- Pasteurized processed cheese food
- Pasteurized processed cheese spread
- Pasteurized processed cheese product
- Cold-pack
Processed cheese is manufactured by mixing and heating natural cheese. However, the heating temperature varies according to the final product to be made – processed cheese, processed cheese food or processed cheese spread. Also, the moisture and fat levels differ according to the type.
Processed cheeses are very common when it comes to usage and consumption. They are used as cheese snacks, soups and sauces, cheese-stuffed entrees, sandwiches, baked goods, vegetables in cheese sauce, meat preparations and casseroles. Low-fat or fat-free types of processed cheeses are ideal for people on a diet to make fat-free soups, sauces, appetizers and various other baked starters.
Hard Cheeses
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- Asiago
- Parmesan
- Romano
- Pepato
Hard cheeses are manufactured in many ways. The curd is cut much smaller than cheddar. Later, it is cooked at a higher temperature than other cheeses. Eventually, this gives a curd that has much drier texture compared to its counterparts. The curd is then pressed and either brined or dry salted, which is turned and rubbed with vegetable oil regularly.
Hard cheeses have a longer shelf life as they have lesser moisture content. Hence, they can be stored for a longer time. The grated version is widely used in several gourmet preparations. These cheeses are quickly browned on direct heating. Their more intense cheese flavour makes them ideal for crackers, popcorn, chips, pasta & pizza toppings, sauces and dips.
We have discussed almost all the main types of cheeses available and manufactured in the US. Apart from these, there are some more varieties like Swiss, Colby, cheese powders, cheese for special needs and speciality cheeses.
America : World’s Largest Cheese Producer
Being the largest cheese producer of the world, the cheese industry in the US is internationally recognized for its excellence and innovation. If numbers are anything to go by, almost a quarter of the world’s cheese (5.1 million metric tons in 2014) is manufactured in the United States alone.
Just in the past decade, cheese production has been increased by 1.1 million metric tons. American-made cheese not only excels in quality but also in styles and varieties to meet the demand of consumers across the world.
From food connoisseurs to common men, American-made cheeses seem to dominate the kitchens and palates of everyone! Now that we know what makes it rule the roost in taste and health, we can definitely say CHEEEEEESE! Aloud… and this time not for a selfie but for the stomach!
How to Pair Cheese and Fruit
You might know that cheese and fruit pair very well together. But how do you choose what to combine? We’ve put together lots of ideas to help you explore your palate.
Why do cheese and fruit go so well together?
Put simply, it’s because whenever we combine foods we are looking for contrast. In the case of cheese and fruit, we get soft and juicy flavors against hard, salty cheeses. It might be crunchy, tangy fruit with soft and creamy cheese. The combination of flavors and textures create a sensation that most people enjoy. So, how to eat it?
General rules
As a general rule, try to combine fresh fruits with fresh, soft cheeses. Don’t try to combine fruit with a very dry cheese, as this won’t have a desirable texture. For cheeses with mold, such as blue cheese or chevre, go for sweeter fruits. Avoid any fruits that you might find bitter, as these usually won’t go well with cheeses.
Cheese and fruit on a cheeseboard
This is probably where you might have tried the combination before. Place cheeses on your board along with sliced fruits and bread. You can then experiment with different flavors and textures. Try to slice your fruit just before eating so that it is as fresh as possible. Some of our favorites to include on a cheeseboard are apples, pears, figs, and grapes.
Cheese and fruit in a toastie
We absolutely love to add fruit to a toastie. It’s like a dessert sandwich! Try blueberries with mascarpone, peaches with gouda, apple butter with pepper jack, or strawberries with mozzarella. An easy way to add cheese to your toastie is to use jam. Try it with ricotta or cheddar for a good contrast.
Cheese and fruit in a salad
If you want to serve a full meal, then you can’t go wrong with a fabulous salad. Feta cheese, from Greece, is an excellent choice as it is salty and creamy. Try it with watermelon or oranges for a fantastic tangy contrast. We also love mozzarella with fruit; it’s particularly good with grilled peaches and arugula in a salad. Try adding a quick balsamic glaze for the final touch!
Cheese and fruit kabobs
This is a fun recipe to make with the kids and will encourage them to eat plenty of fruit! Add cubes of cheese (try something like Cheddar or Monterey Jack), strawberries, and grapes to wooden skewers. You could serve this with a yogurt dip for extra interest.
The most important thing when trying out new flavors is to have fun with it! We know that you are all super creative and will come up with amazing ways to enjoy fruit and cheese together.
Do you like to combine cheeses and fruits? What are your favorite combinations? Let us know your most unusual ones in the comments below!
Honey: Ideas for Using this Sweet Treat
We love honey here at Shisler’s Cheese House! We’re really proud to stock Tonn’s Pure Clover Honey as well as Tonn’s Pure Clover Honeycomb. Fat-free and cholesterol free, clover honey has been found to contain vitamins and minerals that could reduce the risk of illness. Honey is 25% sweeter than table sugar, whilst being an all-natural sweetener. It is a source of flavonoids, which may reduce the risk of some cancers and heart disease. It’s also the only food that contains the antioxidant pinocembrin, which has been linked to improved brain function.
We’ve put together a list of ideas for using honey in your cooking, so read on to find out how to get more of this superfood into your life.
Salad Dressings with Honey
Honey is a great ingredient for adding sweetness to a salad. It pairs really well with mustard and vinegars to create flavorful salads. For a really simple dressing, mix extra virgin olive oil, honey, lemon, sea salt and black pepper together. Shake it up in a jam jar for super speedy mixing. It’s also easy to take it to work with your lunch or out to the park for a picnic!
Of course, if you don’t want to make your own then you could pick up our Walden Farms Honey Dijon Dressing. It’s even calorie free!
As a Marinade
Honey makes an excellent addition to marinades for all sorts of foods. Try it with garlic, lemon juice, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper with chicken. Mix it with soy sauce, garlic, chopped spring onions, and lime juice to add flavor to your salmon. You can even use it to glaze vegetables before roasting.
Make honey butter
Mix 8oz salted butter with 4 tablespoons of honey. Add 1.5 teaspoons of ground cinnamon and 0.5 teaspoons of ground ginger to make a spiced honey butter. These both work really well on toast, with brioche, or melted over pancakes. Why not whip up a batch and keep it in the fridge for those breakfasts that need a little extra sweetness?
Honey on your face!
So this isn’t a recipe exactly, but did you know that honey is great for your skin? It can help you with acne, dry skin and even blemishes. You can simply apply a teaspoon of honey to your face, leave it for 15 – 30 minutes and then wash it off with lukewarm water. You should notice the difference right away!
Sweeten tea
Honey is a great choice for sweetening tea as it adds a little bit of flavor along with sweetness. We especially like it in chai tea as it pairs well with the spices. It’s also great for soothing a sore throat!
Baking with honey
Whether it’s cookies, cakes, or breads, honey makes a great addition to your baking. It’s an excellent source of sweetness and can also create a delicious caramelization in your dishes when used well. Honey does not raise blood sugar levels as quickly as sugar and is sweeter so less can be used making it an excellent alternative.
How do you like to use honey? Let us know in the comments!
Grilled Cheese: A Classic
Today we thought we would explore the history of one of our favorite comfort foods: the grilled cheese. Read on to find out about its origins and find some ideas for making yours extra delicious.
The modern American grilled cheese sandwich first originated in the 1920s, when inexpensive sliced bread and American cheese became widely available.
Around the world, people have different preferences for how to make their grilled cheese, be it in a pan, on the griddle, or in a panini maker or sandwich press. In the UK, they are often called toasties and made in a machine which seals the edges of the bread whilst melting the cheese. In Australia, they are often called jaffles!
We’ve put together some fun ideas for you to make an extra special grilled cheese at home today.
1. Add fruit
We absolutely love a sweet and savory combo! Try blueberries with mascarpone, peaches with gouda, apple butter with pepper jack, or strawberries with mozzarella. You could even create a Hawaiian pizza inspired grilled cheese with ham and pineapple. Something that we recently tried was a small amount of jam in a grilled cheese made with ricotta. It sounds strange, but trust us, it really works!
2. Go for different bread
Sometimes you can’t beat the classic sliced white bread, but if you’re feeling adventurous then try something new to sandwich your cheese between. Have you tried brioche bread for your grilled cheese? It gets an incredible caramelization from its high sugar content. Croissants also work really well. Donuts and pound cake are an extra decadent addition to a sweet grilled cheese, although you might want to leave these to the professionals!
3. Add pickles and relishes
Some of you will be purists who want the cheesiest sandwich that they can find, but we’re pretty partial to a good pickle in our sandwiches. It cuts through the richness and will pack a flavor punch at the same time. A spoonful of mustard can also work wonders with the right cheese.
4. Top it with a fried egg
Whether you like yours over easy or sunny side up, you won’t be sorry that you topped your grilled cheese with a fried egg. It does mean that you’ll have to use a knife and fork to dig in, rather than picking it up, but that’s a small sacrifice to make for the perfect combination of bread, melted cheese, and oozing egg yolks.
5. Go wild
We know that there’s a combination that you’ve dreamed of but haven’t dared to try. You’ll find all sorts of combinations work well, although maybe you’ll want to try them out before unleashing them on any unsuspecting guests.
How do you like your grilled cheese? Let us know in the comments below!