Have you ever wondered why Swiss cheese has holes? Well, the answer is quite complex but can also be quite amusing. Swiss cheese has become a staple in many cuisines throughout the world and its iconic holes are a feature many are familiar with. But why are they so popular and what could be the cause of these holes? Read this article to find out!
The answer to the question of why Swiss cheese has holes involves the microbiology of the cheese, a cheese-making technique, and a bit of folklore. The process of forming holes in Swiss cheese is known as “eye formation”. During cheese-making, a bacteria, Propionibacterium freudenreichii, is added to the cheese, which produces carbon dioxide. This gas is then formed in pockets and is released by the cheese, forming what we know as the beloved Swiss cheese holes.
In addition to the scientific explanation for the holes, there is a whimsical legend about how they were formed. According to Swiss lore, a cow herder named Heidi was the first to discover the holes. As the legend goes, one day Heidi was making cheese and found that her cheese contained small air pockets. This was attributed to hot cheese sluice in the mountains which created tunnels in the cheese.
The eye formation process differs between Swiss cheeses. While some are made with bacteria, others may be created using a special cheese mold that is filled with gas. This creates a type of Swiss cheese commonly known as “Emmental”. The holes created by the mold help keep the cheese moist. Though the science behind the eye formation is interesting, the real benefit of the holes is in the taste and texture of the cheese.
Swiss cheese’s holes are a key factor in its distinctive nuttiness. The pockets of gas contain acids and fatty acids, which give the cheese unique flavors and smells. The holes also provide air flow and ventilation in the cheese, aiding in the ripening process. The holes don’t only give the cheese its signature flavor, but they also give the cheese its mild texture.
So there you have it! Delicious Swiss cheese with its iconic holes that are both characteristic of a quality product and full of flavor. There is more to the famous Swiss cheese than meets the eye. Chemical reactions, scientific molding, and folklore all contribute to creating one of the most beloved cheeses in the world. Maybe the next time you have Swiss cheese, you’ll think fondly of Heidi and all of her hard work!
More info and products:
- None Found