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Smoked Cheese: Everything you need to know
Are you a cheese lover? Have you ever tried smoked cheese?
We stock a huge range here at Shisler’s Cheese House but we know that some customers don’t pick it up because they’re not sure about how it’s made or how to use it. That’s where this blog post comes in. We’re going to tell you everything you need to know about smoked cheese and show you some great uses for it so that you can add this delicious treat to your table.
A huge range of smoked cheese
We currently offer Smoked Baby Swiss, Smoked Bacon Cheese, Smoked Cheddar, Smoked Gouda, Smoked Habanero Cheddar, Smoked Horseradish Cheese, Smoked Hot Pepper Cheese, Smoked Mozzarella, Smoked Provolone, and Smoked Swiss Cheese.
That’s 10 smoked cheeses to choose from! We recommend that if you haven’t tried it before, start with a simple hard cheese such as the Smoked Cheddar or Smoked Gouda.
How is cheese smoked?
There are several ways to smoke cheese, but the main ones are the cold or hot smoke processes. The cold smoke method involves smoking chunks of cheese in a smoker for a few hours at a time with a tray of ice under the cheese. This allows the smoke to infuse into the cheese without it getting too hot and melting. Some smokers will keep the heat source separate to the cheese so that there is no need for the ice.
Smoked cheeses are usually aged for a brief period to allow the smokiness to mellow. The type of wood used will affect the flavor of the cheese. Common types of wood used include apple, oak, hickory, and chestnut. Our Smoked Cheddar is slowly smoked over a hickory fire to give it a deeply smoky flavor. So is our Smoked Horseradish Cheese which has a kick from the horseradish root and our Smoked Hot Pepper Cheese which is also really spicy. Our Smoked Mozzarella is smoked using both hickory and cherry wood smoke.
How should I eat smoked cheese?
There are so many ways to enjoy this but we are going to share just a few with you to give you inspiration today.
- On a cheeseboard
Add another dimension and extra flavor to your cheeseboard with smoked cheeses. They’re also great if you’re building a board around different textures of cheese. These are hard to semi-soft cheeses so you have a good range to choose from. Smoked cheese will surprise your guests if they haven’t tried it before!
- In a sandwich
Thin slices of smoked cheese alongside a good quality ham makes for a very special sandwich indeed. A sweet relish will offset the smokiness if you need some balance.
- On tacos
Grate some smoked cheese over your tacos for an authentic, smoky flavor.
- With fruit
Tart apples or white grapes are the perfect accompaniment to smoked cheese as the flavors marry really well.
We hope you learned something about smoked cheese today! Have you tried it? Let us know in the comments!
Natural Smoked Swiss Cheese
Natural Smoked Swiss Cheese
Natural Smoked Swiss Cheese. The same great taste of the swiss you love with that robust smokey flavor. Naturally smoked, instead of injected with smoke flavor this is a great option for persons looking for a less processed option of your favorite cheese.
Smoked Swiss Cheese
Here is a smoked version of our Ohio Amish Swiss Cheese
Description of Ohio Swiss Cheese
Our Amish swiss cheese is made locally in Pearl Valley, Ohio. The time honored process for making swiss cheese was brough here from Switzerland by the local population of Amish and Mennonite people. At Shisler’s we have selected what we believe to be the best locally made swiss cheese. Our Swiss cheese can also make an excellent low cost substitute for Gruyere cheese.
History of Swiss Cheese
Our locally made Amish swiss cheese closely resembles the original Swiss Emmental Cheese, which was originally produced in the Swiss canton of Bern . Local Swiss cheese has a distinctive appearance, as the blocks of the cheese are riddled with holes known as “eyes”. Swiss cheese is known for its nutty, bittersweet taste.
What Causes Holes in Swiss Cheese?
The process of making Swiss Cheese involves certain natural bacteria consuming the lactic acid in the cheese and releasing carbon dioxide gas, which slowly forms the bubbles that create the perfectly round holes that characterize Swiss cheese. Cheese experts often refer to these holes as “eyes.”
Why Ohio Swiss Cheese is Better
This is often debated, but generally the larger the eyes, the more pronounced the flavor of the cheese. The reason for this is that the conditions that provide the ideal flavor, longer aging at higher temperatures, are also the ideal conditions for the enzymes and bacteria to create larger eyes. This poses a problem for makers of pre-sliced Swiss cheese. Cheese with large eyes doesn’t slice well, sometimes coming apart in mechanical slicers. This costs time and money and is one reason why US manufacturers usually produce a product less aged and flavorful than the Amish swiss cheese made in Northeastern Ohio. It is also essential that the milk used in making the cheese comes from specific types of cows that graze in specific grasses. All of those elements are present in Holmes County Ohio, and the milk is provided by local Amish farmers who do not give their cows hormones or antibiotics or add preservatives to the milk. The result is a Swiss cheese that tastes as good, if not better than the original Emmentaler that is imported from Switzerland, at approximately 1/3 the price.
Baby Swiss is another related cheese. Made by substituting water for the milk’s whey to slow bacterial action, Baby Swiss cheese has smaller holes and a milder flavor. Baby Swiss is made from whole milk. Lacy Swiss is a further variety of US small hole Swiss cheese made with low fat milk.
Wine Pairing for Ohio Swiss Cheese
Ohio Swiss cheese pairs very well with numerous wines, but the most popular pairings are Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Beaujolais and Pinot Noir are also great matches. If you prefer white wine, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc pair well with Ohio Swiss cheese. And for the beer lover, Ohio Swiss cheese goes well with Lager, Pale Ale, and Weiss Beer.
Smoked Provolone Cheese
Cured to perfection, Smoked Provolone Cheese is perfect in Italian sandwiches like layered subs. Pile on the roast beef or salami and garnish with sweet peppers for a mélange of tastes and textures. The slightly smoky, slightly nutty taste lends a bit of pizzazz to ordinary cheese and crackers. The mild, smoky flavor of Smoked Provolone also adds interest to fruits like tart apples or green grapes.
Wine Pairing with Smoked Provolone Cheese
The ideal wine pairing for Smoked Provolone includes but is not limited to Chardonnay and Cabernet.
Smoked Bacon Cheese
Smoked Bacon Cheese
Bacon and cheese combined? What’s not to love!
Bacon Cheese is a mild orange cheddar infused with smoked bacon. This version is smoked for an extra rich savory flavor!
This is great for breakfast dishes such as muffins or a frittata. The smoky flavor will also work well with slightly sweeter dishes. It is delicious added to a cheeseboard combined with a creamy cheese and something mild for contrast. You could see if your guests can identify the flavor amongst the other cheeses.
Cheddar, made in the classical way, tends to have a sharp, pungent flavor, often slightly earthy. Its texture is firm, with farmhouse traditional Cheddar being slightly crumbly. The ideal quality of Cheddar was described by Joseph Harding in 1864 as “close and firm in texture, yet mellow in character or quality; it is rich with a tendency to melt in the mouth, the flavor full and fine, approaching to that of a hazelnut.”
Cheddar cheese has been produced in England since at least 1170. A pipe roll of King Henry II from that year records the purchase of 10,420 lb. at a farthing per pound. One suggestion is that Romans brought the recipe to Britain from the Cantal region of France, where it was adapted.
Central to the modernization and standardization of Cheddar was the nineteenth century Somerset dairyman Joseph Harding. For his technical developments, promotion of dairy hygiene and unremunerated propagation of modern cheese-making techniques he has been described as the father of Cheddar.
This really is a cheese that you have to try! Why not order some today?
Smoked Cheddar Cheese
Smoked Cheddar Cheese is slowly smoked over a hickory fire giving it a distinct smoky flavor.
Cheddar, made in a classical way, tends to have a sharp, pungent flavor, often slightly earthy. Its texture is firm, with farmhouse traditional cheddar being slightly crumbly. The ideal quality of Cheddar was described by Joseph Harding in 1864 as “close and firm in texture, yet mellow in character or quality; it is rich with a tendency to melt in the mouth, the flavor full and fine, approaching to that of a hazelnut.” “Cheddaring” refers to an additional step in the production of Cheddar cheese where, after heating, the curd is kneaded with salt, then is cut into cubes to drain the whey, then stacked and turned.
History of Smoked Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese has been produced in England since at least 1170. A pipe roll of King Henry II from that year records the purchase of 10,420 lb. at a farthing per pound. One suggestion is that Romans brought the recipe to Britain from the Cantal region of France, where it was adapted. Central to the modernization and standardization of Cheddar was the nineteenth century Somerset dairyman Joseph Harding. For his technical developments, promotion of dairy hygiene and unremunerated propagation of modern cheese-making techniques he has been described as the father of Cheddar.
Wine Pairing for Smoked Cheddar Cheese
The sharp and pungent flavor of Cheddar pairs well with Zinfandel, Syrah, and Merlot red wines. White wine lovers can enjoy Riesling, Pinot Gris, or Sauvignon Blanc with their Cheddar. The most sophisticated palates will pair their Cheddar with fine Port, Madeira, or Brandy. Cheddar also pairs well with Pale Ale, Porter, or Stout for beer aficionados, and even ciders and fruit beers for those with a more delicate palate. Smoked cheddar can really be enjoyed with good Scotch.
Smoked Horseradish Cheese
Smoked Horseradish CheeseOur Horseradish Cheese in an American Cheese infused with horseradish and comes in a semi-firm block. Smoked Horseradish Cheese is hickory smoked to additionally enhance the flavor. Horseradish Cheese is a popular element in many hors’oeuvres that contains a pungent, spicy bite, tempting to the palate. Popular serving ideas include rolling thin slices with prosciutto or thinly sliced smoked ham. Recent ideas from our customers include grating Horseradish Cheese into homemade mashed potatoes and melting it into Alfredo sauce.
The Main Element in Horseradish CheeseHorseradish, the spicy kick in Horseradish Cheese, is a perennial plant that is classified with mustard, cabbages and the infamous wasabi. It is native to western Asia and southeastern Europe. The root is what is applied to food applications The root itself is not that spicy, but grating the root damages cells, which then release a mustard oil. It is the mustard oil that gives grated horseradish its pungent kick and makes your eyes water.
Horseradish is even known to have health benefits. It has been used to treat bronchitis, sinus problems and urinary tract infections. The compounds found in horseradish have been shown to kill certain bacterial strains. It is even higher in vitamin C than oranges or lemons. It stimulates the gastric system and causes you to sweat, sweating out any impurities.
Homemade Cheese Pizza
This easy 3-step homemade cheese pizza recipe is the perfect crowd-pleaser and will soon become a firm favorite in your home.
In this article, we share the elements that go into making a great homemade cheese pizza, the ingredients and steps to making one, and then a few ideas for toppings, should you want to elevate your pizza to Gourmet status!
If you’re into homemade cheesy recipes, take a look at our post about The Best Grilled Cheese Recipe.
What goes into a homemade cheese pizza?
There are 5 key components that you’ll need to make a homemade cheese pizza:
- Dough: A good pizza starts with a good dough. The dough should be light and airy with a crispy crust that is neither too thick nor too thin. The dough should be allowed to rise correctly in the refrigerator or at room temperature to achieve the perfect texture.
- Sauce: The tomato sauce is a critical component of the pizza, and choosing a high-quality tomato sauce with a balanced flavor is essential. The sauce should not be too sweet or acidic and should be applied sparingly to avoid making the pizza soggy.
- Cheese: Cheese is perhaps the most important ingredient in a cheese pizza. Mozzarella is the classic choice for pizza, but other cheeses, such as Cheddar or Provolone, can also be used. The cheese should be grated fresh and spread evenly over the pizza to ensure every bite has a cheesy goodness.
- Toppings: Toppings are a matter of personal preference, but the key is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Seasonings: A great homemade cheese pizza is incomplete without some seasonings to enhance the flavors. A drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of sea salt, and a dash of dried oregano or basil can add delicious flavor to your pizza.
How to make homemade cheese pizza
Ingredients
- 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness and shape on a lightly floured surface. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased pizza pan or baking sheet.
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about 1/2 inch of space around the edges; sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the tomato sauce, and then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the pizza, and then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven (450°F (230°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Topping ideas for homemade cheese pizza
If you want to use your cheese pizza as a foundation, here are a few ideas for additional toppings:
- Caramelized onions, our Sweet Fire Goat Cheese, pistachios, and arugula
- Glacier Wildfire Blue Cheese, Streb Meats Fresh Cut Smoked Bacon, and torn fresh basil
- Parmesan, roasted red bell peppers, and anchovies
- Artichokes, roasted oyster mushrooms, and Gruyere
Wrapping it up
We hope this post inspires you to make your own homemade cheese pizza! All the cheeses mentioned in this post are available on our Cheese Products Page.
The Best Grilled Cheese Recipe
The Best Grilled Cheese Recipe
Grilled cheese is a beloved classic comfort food for many people around the world, and there are many reasons why it has earned such a devoted following. One reason is that it is incredibly easy and quick to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation. It’s a dish that can be made at home, in a dorm room, or even on a camping trip with just a few basic supplies.
Grilled cheese sandwiches evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort for many people. Childhood memories of after-school snacks, mom’s grilled cheese, and lazy Sunday mornings can all be associated with this classic sandwich. As such, it has a special place in many people’s hearts and can bring about feelings of warmth and contentment.
What goes into the perfect grilled cheese?
The perfect grilled cheese sandwich is a combination of several elements that come together to create a harmonious and delicious flavor and texture profile. The following are some key components that go into making the best grilled cheese:
- Bread: The bread used, should be sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart or getting too soggy. Many people prefer a bread with a crispy crust and a soft interior, such as sourdough or French bread.
- Cheese: The type of cheese used is a matter of personal preference, but it should be a variety that melts well and has a rich flavor. Cheddar, Gouda, Swiss, and provolone are all popular choices.
- Butter: The butter used for grilling the sandwich should be unsalted and at room temperature so that it spreads easily onto the bread. Some people also like to use mayonnaise or olive oil for a different flavor.
- Temperature: The heat of the skillet or griddle should be medium-low so that the sandwich has time to cook evenly without burning.
- Cooking Time: The sandwich should be cooked for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is golden brown and crispy.
- Additional ingredients: While a classic grilled cheese is simply bread and cheese, some people like to add extras like bacon, tomato, avocado, or caramelized onions for a unique twist.
- Cheese Melting Techniques: To achieve the perfect melt, grating the cheese rather than slicing it can deliver a more even and quicker melt.
Steps to making the best grilled cheese
Making the perfect grilled cheese sandwich involves several key steps that come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Here’s how to do it right:
- Buttering the bread: The first step in making a grilled cheese sandwich is to butter the bread. Take two slices of bread and spread a generous amount of unsalted butter on one side of each slice. This will help the bread to toast and become golden brown while also adding a rich, buttery flavor to the sandwich.
- Cheese selection and preparation: The type of cheese used is a matter of personal preference, but it should be a variety that melts well and has a rich flavor. Grate or slice the cheese and evenly distribute it over one of the buttered slices of bread. If you are adding any additional ingredients, now is the time to layer them on top of the cheese.
- Grilling the sandwich: Place the other slice of bread on top of the cheese and press down gently to create a sandwich. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat and place the sandwich onto the surface. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is golden brown and crispy. To ensure even cooking, you can press down on the sandwich gently with a spatula while it is cooking.
- Additional ingredients or variations: While a classic grilled cheese is simply bread and cheese, you can add a variety of additional ingredients or variations to create a unique and flavorful sandwich. Some popular options include adding cooked bacon, sliced tomato, avocado, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of herbs or spices.
Pro Tips To The Perfect Grilled Cheese
Grilling the perfect grilled cheese sandwich is all about getting the right temperature, timing, and cheese melting techniques. The following are some tips for achieving grilled cheese success:
- Temperature: To ensure that the sandwich cooks evenly and does not burn, it’s important to cook it over medium-low heat. This will give the bread enough time to toast and become golden brown without burning. If the heat is too high, the bread will burn before the cheese has had a chance to melt.
- Time: The cooking time for a grilled cheese sandwich should be 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is golden brown and crispy. It’s important not to rush the cooking process by turning up the heat or flipping the sandwich too often. This can result in uneven cooking and a sandwich that is not fully melted or toasted.
- Cheese melting techniques: To achieve the perfect melt, many people prefer to grate their cheese rather than slicing it. This allows the cheese to melt more evenly and quickly. Another technique is to cover the skillet or griddle with a lid while the sandwich is cooking. This traps the heat and helps the cheese to melt more quickly and evenly.
- Experiment with Cheese Varieties: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice for a grilled cheese sandwich, there are countless other cheese varieties to try. Some popular options include Gouda, Swiss, provolone, mozzarella, or a combination of different cheeses. Each type of cheese will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the sandwich.
- Add Crunch with Ingredients: If you want to add a crunchy texture to your grilled cheese sandwich, try adding ingredients like bacon, crispy onions, or thinly sliced apples. These ingredients will add a satisfying crunch and extra flavor to the sandwich.
Wrapping it up
A grilled cheese sandwich is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. With the right ingredients and techniques, it’s easy to create a perfectly toasted and melted sandwich that is satisfying and delicious.
By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can create a grilled cheese sandwich that is sure to please any cheese lover.
Whether you prefer a classic grilled cheese or like to experiment with different cheeses and ingredients, these tips will help you achieve grilled cheese greatness. So, go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
Fall Recipe: Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball
It’s the week of Halloween. The leaves are eerily falling and the temperature is too. Get in the “spirit” of the season with this pumpkin shaped cheese ball that is sure to wow your Halloweekend guests!