What Is Havarti Cheese? The Creamy, Mild Cheese You Need To Try

What is Havarti Cheese?

Havarti is a semi-soft, creamy cheese originating from Denmark. Its mild, buttery flavor and smooth texture make it a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Havarti’s distinct holes, or “eyes,” are a result of the natural fermentation process and contribute to its light and airy texture.

History and Origin

The history of Havarti cheese dates back to the 19th century when Danish dairy farmers sought to create a cheese that would rival the popular Swiss Emmental. In 1854, Christian Hansen, a Danish dairyman, developed the recipe for Havarti cheese using a special bacterial culture. The cheese was named after the town of Havarthigaard, where it was first produced.

Production Process

Havarti cheese is made from cow’s milk that is heated and then inoculated with a bacterial culture. The milk is then renneted to form curds, which are cut and heated gently. The curds are then pressed into molds and left to age for a minimum of 28 days. During this time, the cheese develops its characteristic mild flavor and texture.

Flavors and Varieties

Havarti is known for its mild, buttery flavor, with notes of cream and salt. It has a smooth, slightly waxy texture that melts easily. There are several varieties of Havarti cheese, each with its own unique flavor profile:

• Mild Havarti: The most common type, with a delicate and slightly sweet flavor.
• Dill Havarti: Infused with dill herbs, giving it a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
• Caraway Havarti: Contains caraway seeds, adding a nutty and slightly spicy flavor.
• Garlic Havarti: Infused with garlic, giving it a savory and pungent flavor.
• Smoked Havarti: Smoked over wood chips, imparting a smoky and slightly earthy flavor.

Culinary Uses

Havarti cheese is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Its mild flavor makes it a great addition to sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. It can also be melted and used in sauces, dips, and fondues. Havarti is also a popular choice for making grilled cheese sandwiches, as it melts well and provides a creamy and flavorful filling.

Nutritional Value

Havarti cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamins. A 1-ounce serving of Havarti contains approximately:

• Calories: 110
• Protein: 7 grams
• Calcium: 200 milligrams
• Vitamin A: 15% of the daily value
• Vitamin B12: 10% of the daily value

Pairing Suggestions

Havarti cheese pairs well with a variety of accompaniments, including:

• Fruits: Apples, pears, grapes, berries
• Vegetables: Cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, celery
• Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, pecans
• Breads: Sourdough, baguettes, crackers
• Wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir

Alternatives to Havarti Cheese

If Havarti cheese is not available, there are several other cheeses that can be used as alternatives:

• Münster: A semi-soft French cheese with a similar mild flavor and creamy texture.
• Edam: A semi-hard Dutch cheese with a slightly nutty flavor and a smooth texture.
• Gouda: A semi-hard Dutch cheese with a sweet and buttery flavor.
• Cheddar: A hard English cheese with a sharp and tangy flavor.
• Monterey Jack: A semi-soft American cheese with a mild and slightly sweet flavor.

Fun Facts about Havarti Cheese

• Havarti cheese is the second most popular cheese in Denmark.
• The holes in Havarti cheese are caused by carbon dioxide gas produced by the bacteria during fermentation.
• Havarti cheese is often used in Danish pastries, such as the famous “kanelsnegle” (cinnamon rolls).
• The average Dane consumes approximately 20 pounds of Havarti cheese per year.

Frequently Discussed Topics

1. What is the difference between Havarti and Swiss cheese?

Havarti and Swiss cheese are both semi-soft cheeses with holes. However, Havarti has a milder flavor and a smoother texture than Swiss cheese.

2. Can I eat Havarti cheese while pregnant?

Yes, Havarti cheese is safe to eat while pregnant as long as it is made from pasteurized milk.

3. How long can I store Havarti cheese?

Havarti cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 6 weeks. Once opened, it should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

4. What is the best way to melt Havarti cheese?

Havarti cheese melts well in a microwave or on the stovetop. For the microwave, heat the cheese in 30-second intervals until melted. For the stovetop, place the cheese in a saucepan over low heat and stir constantly until melted.

5. What is a good substitute for Havarti cheese in a recipe?

If Havarti cheese is not available, you can substitute it with Münster, Edam, Gouda, Cheddar, or Monterey Jack cheese.