⋅ One 8 oz. shaker bottle of Kraft Grated Parmesan & Romano Cheese
⋅ Kraft grated cheese resealable shaker bottle allows you to add just the right amount of cheese
⋅ Blend of Parmesan and Romano cheese
⋅ Finely grated cheese is easy to add to food
⋅ Made with premium quality milk
⋅ No Fillers
⋅ Can be used in almost any recipe
⋅ 0 carbs
Tip 1: Check the Ingredients List
When choosing cheddar cheese, it is essential to check the ingredients list to make sure that it is made from high-quality, natural ingredients. Look for brands that use real milk from cows that have not been treated with growth hormones. Also, check the list of additives and preservatives. Ideally, you should choose brands that use minimal additives and preservatives, as these can negatively impact the taste and nutritional value of the cheese.Examples of additives and preservatives to avoid:
- Artificial flavors and colorings
- Cellulose powder (used to prevent clumping)
- Potassium sorbate (used as a preservative)
- Sodium citrate (used as a flavor enhancer and preservative)
- Calcium chloride (used as a coagulant)
Tip 2: Choose Cheese with a High Fat Content
Fat is an essential component of cheddar cheese, and it plays a significant role in its flavor and texture. Cheeses with higher fat content tend to be creamier, richer, and more flavorful than those with lower fat content. Therefore, when choosing cheddar cheese, look for varieties that have a fat content of at least 30%. While lower-fat varieties may be appealing from a health perspective, they often lack the depth of flavor and creaminess of higher-fat varieties.Types of cheddar cheese by fat content:
- Extra sharp cheddar (36-40% fat): A very strong and tangy variety of cheddar cheese that is aged for up to two years.
- Sharp cheddar (32-36% fat): A bold and flavorful cheese that is perfect for sandwiches, burgers, and other savory dishes.
- Mild or medium cheddar (30-32% fat): A milder and creamier version of cheddar cheese that is great for snacking.
Tip 3: Look for Aged Cheddar Cheese
Aged cheddar cheese has a bolder and more complex flavor than younger cheddar cheese. The longer the cheese is aged, the stronger and sharper the flavor becomes. Aged cheddar cheese can be aged for anywhere from six months to several years, depending on the desired flavor profile. When choosing cheddar cheese, consider the age of the cheese and how it will contribute to the final dish.Types of aged cheddar cheese:
- Extra sharp cheddar cheese (aged up to 2 years)
- Sharp cheddar cheese (aged 1-2 years)
- Medium cheddar cheese (aged 6-12 months)
- Mild cheddar cheese (aged 3-6 months)
Tip 4: Look for Artisanal or Specialty Brands
Artisanal or specialty cheddar cheese brands are often made using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients. These brands may offer unique and exciting flavors that you may not find in traditional cheddar cheese brands. When choosing cheddar cheese, consider exploring artisanal or specialty brands for a more unique and flavorful experience.Examples of artisanal or specialty cheddar cheese brands:
- Tillamook
- Cracker Barrel
- Cabot
- Beecher's Handmade Cheese
- Wyke Farms
Tip 5: Consider the Form of the Cheese
Cheddar cheese is available in many different forms, including blocks, slices, shredded, and grated. The form of the cheese can have a significant impact on the texture and flavor of the cheese. When choosing cheddar cheese, consider the form that will work best for your recipe or application.Forms of cheddar cheese:
- Blocks: Ideal for slicing or cubing for cheese boards or sandwiches.
- Slices: Convenient for sandwiches, burgers, and snacking.
- Shredded: Pre-shredded cheese is great for melting in dishes like macaroni and cheese or pizza.
- Grated: Grated cheese is ideal for sprinkling on top of soups, salads, or other dishes.
Tip 6: Consider Both White and Yellow Cheddar Cheese
Traditionally, cheddar cheese was white in color, as it is made from pure cow's milk. However, many commercial cheddar cheese brands add coloring agents to give the cheese a bright yellow color, which is more visually appealing to some consumers. When choosing cheddar cheese, consider both white and yellow varieties and their flavor profiles.White vs. yellow cheddar cheese:
- White cheddar cheese: Often has a tangier flavor profile than yellow cheddar cheese.
- Yellow cheddar cheese: Tends to be milder and creamier than white cheddar cheese.