All about hard and sliced cheese
What is hard cheese?
Hard cheese is a type of cheese made from cow, sheep, or goat milk. It has a firm texture and is matured for a longer period compared to soft cheese. This makes it hard and gives it an intense flavor. A well-known hard cheese is Parmesan, for instance.
What is sliced cheese?
Sliced cheese is a type of cheese made from cow's milk. It is characterized by its soft texture and mild flavor. It is not matured for a longer period compared to hard cheese but for only a few weeks.
Difference between hard and sliced cheese
The main difference between hard and sliced cheese lies in the maturation period. Hard cheese is matured for a longer period and acquires its intense flavor and firm texture. On the other hand, sliced cheese is matured for a few weeks only and retains its soft texture and mild flavor.
Use of hard and sliced cheese
Hard cheese is particularly suitable for grating and is often used as a topping for pasta dishes. However, it also tastes great as a dessert cheese or in combination with fruits. Sliced cheese, on the other hand, is perfect for sandwiches or as a topping for bread. It can also be used in hot dishes such as casseroles or soups.
Popular varieties of hard and sliced cheese
Hard cheese:
- Parmesan
- Gouda
- Cheddar
- Manchego
- Emmental
Sliced cheese:
- Gouda
- Edam
- Butter cheese
- Tilsit
- Appenzeller
Storage of hard and sliced cheese
Hard and sliced cheese should be stored at a temperature of 8-12 degrees Celsius. They should be kept in a sealed container in the refrigerator to prevent drying out and the transfer of odors. Hard cheese lasts longer than sliced cheese and can be stored for up to a year, depending on the variety.
Conclusion
Overall, hard and sliced cheese are very different types of cheese, each with its own advantages. While hard cheese stands out for its firm texture and intense flavor, sliced cheese impresses with its soft texture and mild flavor. Both types are suitable for different uses and are a great addition to any kitchen.
