The cheddar cheese originated in the village of Cheddar located in England. It was made only in England during old days but nowadays it is manufactured all over the world. Unlike, some other cheese names, the name “cheddar” can be used by any cheese manufacturing company or artisan manufactures. They can label their cheese as cheddar. Invented by Joseph Harding, the cheddar cheese is made from cow’s milk that ranges in flavour from mild to sharp depending on the duration of their storage or simply age. The colour of cheddar cheese ranges from white to pale yellow however some natural colours can be added. It is smooth and firm in texture with a tendency to melt in the mouth. The cheddar cheeses are available all year round and it can be stored in refrigerator wrapped in airtight containers. How to manufacture cheddar cheese? Foremost, ripened milk which aids in coagulation of milk is required along with rennet. Proper proportions of milk and rennet are mixed and allowed to set to form curds at controlled temperature. The curd is then cut into cubes using wire knives made of stainless steel after which it is cooked. Whey is then removed from the curds by draining. The curds are then allowed to set till a pH of 6.4 is reached. It is then cut into loaves, which is turned over again and again after constant time periods and stacking begins. Then the curd is milled and salt is added. Salt lowers the moisture content preventing the cheese to become acidic and adds to the flavour of cheese. The curds are placed into moulds which press it and blocks of cheddar are formed. The cheese is then left to age. During the aging process, the cheese loses moisture and the texture becomes dry and more crumbly acquiring sharpness in taste. Aged cheddar can be stored to mature for as much as 9 to 24 months depending on the sharpness in taste required. The optimal and best favourable aging period is 5 to 6 years. Why is the cheddar so good for you? Cheddar cheese is generally preferred because of the taste and health benefits associated with it. This class of cheese contains the essential calcium and high quality protein that is good for our heath. Consumption of cheddar cheese stimulates the flow of saliva which reduces the risk of dental caries. Conclusion Cheddar cheese is second most popular cheese in the US with an average annual consumption of 45kg per capita. Only made from cow’s milk, because of its great taste and health benefits, it is widely used. Click here for consumption of cheddar cheese stimulates the flow of saliva which reduces the risk of dental caries. Get more details at www.goldenagecheese.com
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