How To Tame The Blue Cheese Monster: Simple Hacks To Reduce Its Sharpness
What To Know
- Allowing the cheese to age for a longer period will result in a milder, more balanced flavor.
- If you’re using blue cheese in a recipe, consider melting it into a sauce or baking it into a dish.
- Instead of using blue cheese as a main ingredient, try using it as a topping for salads, pizzas, or pasta dishes.
Blue cheese, with its characteristic pungent aroma and sharp, salty flavor, is a delicacy enjoyed by many. However, its intensity can be overwhelming for some palates. If you find yourself craving the unique taste of blue cheese without the overpowering sharpness, here are some effective ways to tame its strength:
Age the Cheese
As blue cheese ages, the enzymes responsible for its distinctive flavor mellow and break down the sharp compounds. Allowing the cheese to age for a longer period will result in a milder, more balanced flavor.
Cut Away the Veins
The blue veins that give blue cheese its name are where the strongest flavors reside. By carefully trimming away these veins, you can significantly reduce the intensity of the cheese.
Mix with Milder Cheeses
Combining blue cheese with milder cheeses, such as cheddar or mozzarella, can dilute its strong flavors. This is a great option for creating dishes where blue cheese is used as an accent rather than the main attraction.
Pair with Sweet or Acidic Ingredients
Sweet or acidic ingredients can help balance the sharpness of blue cheese. Try pairing it with fruits (such as pears or apples), honey, or balsamic vinegar.
Use Heat
Applying heat to blue cheese can soften its flavors. If you’re using blue cheese in a recipe, consider melting it into a sauce or baking it into a dish.
Freeze the Cheese
Freezing blue cheese for a short period can temporarily dull its sharpness. Once thawed, the cheese will regain some of its intensity, but it will be less overpowering than before.
Marinate the Cheese
Marinating blue cheese in milk or cream can help extract some of its strong flavors. Simply soak the cheese in the liquid for several hours or overnight.
Other Tips
- Choose a milder variety: There are several varieties of blue cheese available, each with varying degrees of intensity. Opt for a cheese with a milder flavor profile to start with.
- Start with small amounts: When incorporating blue cheese into dishes, begin with a small amount and gradually increase it until you reach the desired flavor balance.
- Use as a topping: Instead of using blue cheese as a main ingredient, try using it as a topping for salads, pizzas, or pasta dishes. This will distribute the flavor more evenly.
- Experiment with different pairings: Blue cheese can be paired with a wide range of ingredients. Experiment with different combinations to find the ones that complement its flavors best.
Taming Blue Cheese: A Culinary Adventure
Making blue cheese less strong opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Whether you’re a seasoned cheese enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of blue cheese, these techniques will help you enjoy its unique flavors without overpowering your palate.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I make blue cheese less strong by microwaving it?
A: No, microwaving blue cheese will not reduce its strength. In fact, it may intensify the flavors.
Q: How long should I age blue cheese to make it less strong?
A: The ideal aging time will vary depending on the variety of blue cheese. As a general rule, aging for 6-8 weeks will result in a milder flavor.
Q: Can I freeze blue cheese for an extended period to reduce its strength?
A: No, freezing blue cheese for an extended period will not make it less strong. It may, however, affect the texture of the cheese.