If you’re a cheese lover then you’ve likely encountered Swiss Emmentaler, with its iconic large holes that make it easily identifiable. Emmentaler is an authentic Swiss cheese, exported all over the world to be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. But what exactly is Swiss Emmentaler and what makes it such a special cheese?
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What Is Swiss Emmentaler?
Swiss Emmentaler is a type of cheese that has been made in the alpine regions of Switzerland since the 12th century. It is a hard, yellow cheese that is characterized by its distinct large holes throughout. The cheese is made from unpasteurized cow’s milk and inoculated with a special Swiss culture that gives it its unique flavor and texture.
The process of making Swiss Emmentaler is quite labor intensive; many cheese makers can take months to make a wheel of Emmentaler. First, the cheese maker combines the milk and specially cultured starter. Once the curd is set, it is cooked and cut into small cubes that are combined with salt and kneaded by hand into a smooth mixture. Then, it is placed into cheese molds where it is pressed and salted again. Finally, the cheese molds are taken outside to age for at least 4-6 months.
What Makes Swiss Emmentaler Special?
Swiss Emmentaler is made with unpasteurized, raw milk, giving it a unique flavor profile and texture. The holes are a result of the bacterial activity that occurs in the cheese as it matures. The cheese has a nutty flavor with a hint of sweetness and is often described as “sharp”. It is known for its smooth, creamy texture.
In addition, Swiss Emmentaler has been granted “Protected Designation of Origin” (PDO) status. This means that it can only be produced within a certain geographical region and that it needs to adhere to a strict set of rules in order to maintain its authentic, Swiss character.
How Is Swiss Emmentaler Used?
Swiss Emmentaler is very versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Of course, it can be eaten on its own as a snack or part of a cheese plate. It pairs well with white wines, beer and freshly-baked bread. It is also popularly used in cooking and baking. Grated Emmentaler makes a great topping for many dishes, such as casseroles, gratins, pizzas, and salads. Additionally, it can be melted into sauces, and is a key ingredient in dishes such as fondue.
So if you’re looking for a unique cheese experience, authenticity, and flavor, Swiss Emmentaler is the way to go. It is sure to please even the most discerning cheese aficionados!
All-in-all, Swiss Emmentaler is an iconic cheese with a rich history that has earned its spot among the world’s finest cheeses. With its unique flavor, texture, and track record, Emmentaler is sure to make an impression – whether you opt to enjoy it on its own or use it to add a special twist to your favorite dishes.
To cap off, never forget this cheese has been around for almost a millennium, so it’s earned its reputation. Go on, make the Swiss proud and give it a try!