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key term - Cheddar

Citation:

Definition

Cheddar is a hard, yellow or white, aged cheese that originated in the village of Cheddar in Somerset, England. It is one of the most popular and widely consumed cheeses in the world, known for its distinctive sharp, nutty flavor and firm, dense texture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Cheddar cheese is made by pressing the curds into large, cylindrical wheels and then aging them for several months to years.
  2. The longer cheddar is aged, the sharper and more intense its flavor becomes, with the most mature cheddars developing a crumbly texture.
  3. Cheddar cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, making it a nutritious addition to the diet.
  4. The production of cheddar cheese has been a significant part of the economy and culture in the Cheddar Gorge region of Somerset, England for centuries.
  5. Cheddar cheese is versatile and can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from grilled cheese sandwiches to macaroni and cheese, and even as a snack on its own.

Review Questions

  • Describe the traditional cheesemaking process used to produce cheddar cheese.
    • The traditional cheesemaking process for cheddar cheese involves several key steps. First, milk is curdled using rennet, an enzyme complex derived from the stomach lining of young ruminant animals. This causes the milk proteins to coagulate and separate into curds and whey. The curds are then cut, cooked, and pressed into large, cylindrical wheels. Finally, the wheels of cheese are aged for several months to years, during which time the cheese develops its characteristic sharp, nutty flavor and firm, dense texture.
  • Explain how the aging process affects the flavor and texture of cheddar cheese.
    • The aging process is crucial for the development of cheddar cheese's distinctive flavor and texture. As the cheese ages, enzymes and bacteria break down the proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, producing a wide range of complex flavor compounds. The longer the cheese is aged, the sharper and more intense the flavor becomes, with the most mature cheddars developing a crumbly, crystalline texture. This aging process can take anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on the desired characteristics of the final product.
  • Discuss the historical and cultural significance of cheddar cheese in the Cheddar Gorge region of England.
    • Cheddar cheese has been an integral part of the economy and culture in the Cheddar Gorge region of Somerset, England for centuries. The unique microclimate and natural caves in the Cheddar Gorge provided ideal conditions for aging the cheese, and the production of cheddar has been a local tradition passed down through generations. The cheese has become a source of pride and identity for the people of the region, and the Cheddar Gorge has become a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors to experience the history and tradition of this iconic British cheese.