From the holes to the rind, Swiss cheese is a treat for both the eyes and the tastebuds. But what does it look like? We’ll take a closer look at this delicious cheese so you can truly appreciate its unique features.
Swiss cheese is characterized by its unique texture and, of course, its lovable holes (known as “eyes”). The cheese ranges from off-white to pale yellow in color, and is a semi-hard cheese. The rind is typically thin and smooth, and the consistency can range from resilient to creamy. When Swiss cheese is sliced, the white paste will often form a stringy, elastic texture.
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The Holes in Swiss Cheese
If you think the holes in Swiss cheese look random, you’re not alone! It’s a question scientists have puzzled over for centuries, but they’ve finally cracked the code. Swiss cheese’s signature holes are created by harmless bacteria eating away at the cheese. The bacteria eats away at the lactose within the cheese, leaving behind air pockets that become the famous holes.
The Way It Tastes
Swiss cheese has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, which is why it pairs so perfectly with other savory ingredients, like cured meats. The texture can also vary depending on the cheese’s age – a younger cheese will be smoother and less firm, while an older cheese will be more crumbly.
Pairing It with Other Flavors
Swiss cheese isn’t one of those ingredients that just goes with anything – you want to choose flavors to compliment the cheese’s dominant nutty flavor. Here are some ingenious pairings to try:
- Fruits and veggies like mushrooms, apples, pears, tomatoes and bell peppers
- Savory ingredients like bacon, ham, mustard, garlic and chives
- Nuts like almonds, hazelnuts and walnuts
- Herbs like rosemary, oregano, parsley and thyme
For a truly Swiss experience, don’t forget to grab a fondue and a glass of white wine!
From its signature holes to its versatile flavor, Swiss cheese is a classic for both cheese-lovers and cheese-haters. With a bit of creativity, you can find creative pairings for Swiss cheese that will take your dishes to a whole new gourmet level. So grab your fondue and your favorite Swiss cheese, because you’re about to experience a cheesy adventure unlike anything you’ve ever tried before.