Cheese
Description
Cheese is one of those foods that seems simple on the surface but is actually a whole universe of flavor, science, and culture. It’s one of the oldest prepared foods in the world and comes in an enormous variety of styles, flavors, and textures.
What Cheese Is
Cheese is a food made from milk that has been transformed by coagulation—a process where milk proteins (mostly casein) clump together.
What It's Made From
- Cow’s milk
- Goat’s milk
- Sheep’s milk
- Buffalo milk
- Or even blend
Common Categories
Category |
Examples |
Texture |
Flavor |
Fresh |
Mozzarella, Ricotta, Chèvre | Soft, moist | Mild, milky |
Soft-ripened |
Brie, Camembert | Creamy, gooey | Earthy, buttery |
Semi-soft |
Havarti, Muenster | Smooth, sliceable | Mild to tangy |
Semi-hard |
Cheddar, Gouda | Firm, dense | Sharp, nutty |
Hard |
Parmesan, Pecorino | Crumbly, dry | Salty, intense |
Blue |
Gorgonzola, Roquefort | Veined, creamy | Pungent, bold |