Search Results for: swiss
Ohio Swiss Cheese
Ohio Swiss Cheese or more specifically our Amish sliced swiss cheese is made locally in Pearl Valley, Ohio. The time-honored process of making swiss cheese was brought 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 always 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. This unique look and delicious taste have made Swiss Cheese become one of the most iconic cheeses around!
What Causes the 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 the conditions that provide the ideal flavor. Longer aging at higher temperatures is the ideal condition 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 this Cheese
Ohio sliced 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.
If you prefer imports, try our Gruyere Cheese.
Lacy Swiss
Lacy Swiss is another of our lower fat and sodium alternatives. Dairy products are off limits for many diets and healthy lifestyles due to the high-fat contents in products made with whole milk. Lacy Swiss was invented by Alpine Lace Brands in 1985 in response to the growing need for healthier alternatives. Some of our other lower fat alternatives include Lucerne, Lacy Baby Swiss, and Yogurt Cheese. Lacy Swiss is sometimes mistaken for Baby Swiss due to its myriad of small holes. But Lacy Swiss is actually quite different. It is closely related to Swiss cheese, but the whole milk used to produce swiss cheese is replaced with low-fat milk to provide a healthier alternative with lower fat content. Lacy Swiss is so named because when sliced, the white to ivory-colored slices look like lace. Lacy Swiss has a delightfully light and nutty flavor, but a lower calorie and sodium content than the original Swiss cheese.
This is a great table cheese and is a great lower-calorie alternative on deli sandwiches or to top off hamburgers and patty melts. But if you’re looking to add a true Swiss flavor to a recipe, our sharper imported varieties like Jarlsberg or Gruyere may be better choices.
Nutritional Information
Serving size: 1 Oz., Calories: 100, Fat: 7g, Sodium: 40mg, Cholesterol: 20 mg Carbs.: 1g Protein: 8g *Values are approximate
Wine Pairing
Like its close relative Swiss cheese, it pairs very well with numerous wines. 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 Lacy Swiss. And for the beer lover, Lacy Swiss goes well with Lager, Pale Ale, and Weiss Beer.
Sharp Swiss
Sharp Swiss cheese is a more mature version of our locally made Swiss cheese that has been aged approximately 12 months. Sharp Swiss cheese is an excellent substitute for Gruyere cheese, if you prefer the more mature variety.
What is “Sharp” Cheese?
The term “Sharp” when used in reference to cheese denotes a stronger flavor as a result of a longer aging process. Many cheese connoisseurs prefer sharper, more mature cheeses. If you prefer a more medium-sharp, then you may try our Emmentaler old-world Swiss. Some of our other more mature cheeses include Asiago, Canadian Cheddar, Manchego, Parmesan, Romano, and Sharp American. Our Orange and White cheddars are both medium sharp.
Description of Swiss Cheese
Our Amish swiss cheese is made locally in Pearl Valley, Ohio. The time-honored process for making swiss was brought 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.
History of Our Local Swiss
Our locally made Amish cheese closely resembles the original Swiss Emmental Cheese, which was originally produced in the Swiss canton of Bern. Our local cheese has a distinctive appearance, as the blocks of the cheese are riddled with holes known as “eyes”. Swiss is known for its nutty, bittersweet taste. These distinct features has transformed swiss into one of the most iconic cheeses around!
In general, the larger the eyes in a Swiss cheese, the more pronounced its flavor; this is because the same conditions that lead to large eyes—longer aging or higher temperatures—also produce a stronger flavor. This poses a problem for makers of pre-sliced Swiss. 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 cheese made in North Central Ohio.
Baby Swiss is another related cheese. Made by substituting water for the milk’s whey to slow bacterial action, Baby Swiss 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 made with low-fat milk.
Wine Pairing for this Cheese
Swiss 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 Swiss. And for the beer lover, Swiss goes well with Lager, Pale Ale, and Weiss Beer.
Have any questions? Contact us today!
Gift Box #1: Baby Swiss Cheese
Baby Swiss Cheese
This is a fantastic gift box containing a 4lb wheel of Baby Swiss cheese as well as an assortment of chocolates.
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!
Baby Swiss is another of our local selections, made in Charm, Ohio by the original producer Guggisberg Cheese. Some of Our other Signature local cheeses include Swiss, Sharp Swiss, Amish Butter Cheese, Yogurt Cheese, and several variations of each. Baby Swiss is a young, semi-soft whole milk cheese distinguishable by its myriad of small holes. Baby Swiss is closely related to Swiss cheese, made by substituting water for the milk’s whey to slow bacterial action, Baby Swiss has smaller holes and a milder flavor. Baby Swiss is often made from whole milk. Baby Swiss has a delightfully creamy and mild taste, a delicious favorite!
History of Baby Swiss
Baby Swiss originated in 1967 just outside of Charm, Ohio, and was invented by cheese connoisseur Alfred Guggisberg, an alumnus of the famous Swiss Federal “Molkereishulle” (cheese maker’s institute). The name Baby Swiss was coined by Alfred’s wife, Margaret Guggisberg, who thought that in comparison to the larger wheels of traditional Swiss cheese, when placed side by side, the new cheese looked like a baby.
We love this gift box as it feels truly special to receive a whole wheel of cheese and we know whoever you are gifting it to will absolutely love it!
- 4 Lb. Baby Swiss Wheel
- Assorted Chocolates
Baby Swiss Cheese
Baby Swiss is another of our local selections, made in Charm, Ohio by the original producer Guggisberg Cheese. Some of our other signature local cheeses include Swiss, Sharp Swiss, Amish Butter Cheese, Yogurt Cheese, and several variations of each.
Baby Swiss is a young, semi-soft whole milk cheese distinguishable by its myriad of small holes. Baby Swiss is closely related to Swiss cheese, made by substituting water for the milk’s whey to slow bacterial action, Baby Swiss has smaller holes and a milder flavor. Baby Swiss is often made from whole milk. Baby Swiss has a delightfully creamy and mild taste, a delicious favorite!
Smoked Baby Swiss is also available, along with Lacy Baby Swiss for those who prefer a lower calorie version.
History of Baby Swiss
Baby Swiss cheese originated in 1967 just outside of Charm, Ohio, and was invented by cheese connoisseur Alfred Guggisberg, an alumnus of the famous Swiss Federal “Molkereishulle” (cheese maker’s institute). The name Baby Swiss was coined by Alfred’s wife, Margaret Guggisberg, who thought that in comparison to the larger wheels of traditional Swiss cheese when placed side by side, the new cheese looked like a baby.
Wine Pairing with Baby Swiss
Like its close relative Swiss cheese, Baby Swiss pairs very well with numerous wines. 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 Baby Swiss. And for the beer lover, Baby Swiss goes well with Lager, Pale Ale, and Weiss Beer.
*Also pictured is Shisler’s Private Label Hot Jalapeno Mustard
Baby Swiss is also included in several of our signature Gift Baskets
Gift Box #8: Shisler’s Cheese House Luxury Gift Box
For those with champagne taste…….
Our Shisler’s Cheese House Luxury Gift Box includes:
- Summer Sausage
- Carr’s Crackers
- Ohio Swiss
- Manchego Cheese
- Woeber’s Champagne Dill & Cranberry Honey Mustard
- (2) Mackenzie Creamery Chevre Goat Cheese
- Raclette Slices
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!
Caraway Cheese
Caraway Cheese also known as “Swiss on Rye”
Caraway Cheese, also known as “Swiss on Rye” is a creamy cheese with unique flavors of Pepper and Anise. The caraway seed is the ingredient used to make rye bread.
Superbowl Snacks!
The biggest football game of the year is right around the corner! Don’t let your snack game pale in comparison. Here we have some fun ideas for presentation and taste purposes and a Shisler’s shopping list to make sure your snacks pack the same wow factor as the game!
National Cheese Lovers’ Day
Did you know that tomorrow, January 20, is National Cheese Lovers’ Day? Although this “national holiday” may not be decreed by Congress or have much of a historical background, we know that many of you are Lovers’ of Cheese and always looking for a way to celebrate that love. So, let’s take a look at some fun facts and new cheesy things to try out in celebration!