Distinguishing 4 Popular Types of Cheese, Their Uses, and Proper Storage
Cheese is a common ingredient used in cooking and baking, made from cow’s milk, sheep’s milk, or goat’s milk. It is rich in protein, fat, and other nutrients like calcium and phosphorus. Hard cheeses have a longer shelf life compared to soft cheeses.
Originating from Western countries, cheese comes in hundreds of varieties with different flavors, colors, and textures. Some types are specifically for cooking, some for baking, and others can be used for both or eaten directly.
1. Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese, known as Parmigiano-Reggiano in Italian, is a hard, granular cheese commonly used in pasta and Italian dishes. The flavor of Parmesan varies depending on the season when the milk is harvested, with autumn milk being considered the best for making Parmesan. This cheese is made from cow’s milk and typically undergoes an aging process of 2 to 3 years to reach its optimal quality. It’s best to buy Parmesan in whole blocks and grate or slice it when needed for cooking or eating.
2. Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese is a hard cheese, available in pale yellow, deep yellow, or off-white, with a slightly bitter taste. The longer Cheddar is aged, the harder it becomes, and its yellow color becomes more pronounced. Cheddar is usually aged for 9 to 24 months to reach its prime. It’s commonly used in sandwiches, burgers, pizzas, baked pasta dishes, or savory pastries. To maintain its flavor, it’s advisable to buy Cheddar in large blocks and slice it as needed.
3. Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella belongs to the cream cheese family and is primarily made from water buffalo milk in Italy, although cow’s milk can also be used. Mozzarella is soft and either white or light yellow, depending on the season and the diet of the livestock. Due to its high moisture content, Mozzarella is typically used within a short period. It can be stored in brine for up to a week or refrigerated for up to a month. Mozzarella is often shredded for pizza, pasta dishes, or Caprese salad, paired with basil and sliced tomatoes.
4. Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is a soft, white cheese made from cow’s or goat’s milk, known for its slightly tangy and salty flavor. It is widely used in various dishes and baked goods, from spreading on bread, incorporating into spaghetti, to being a key ingredient in desserts like cheesecake and Tiramisu. Cream cheese is also popular in bubble tea for adding a unique flavor.
Cheese Storage Tips
- For hard cheeses like Parmesan and Cheddar, it’s best to buy them in whole blocks and grate or slice as needed.
- Mozzarella and cream cheese have shorter shelf lives, so they should be refrigerated and used quickly after opening to prevent mold or spoilage.
