Exploring Unique Cheeses Made with Unusual Ingredients

Dear Sir/Madam,

It is customary to begin an article on this subject with a nod to my professional background. Over the past three decades, I have dedicated the majority of my career to the Canadian Cheese industry. In this time, I have seldom encountered a cheese that incorporates milk, eggs, and sour cream as its key ingredients. As someone deeply immersed in the dairy and cheese sciences, my experiences suggest that cheeses typically utilize milk, rennet, or similar enzymes, coupled with bacterial or mold cultures, or food-grade acids. The inclusion of eggs and sour cream in cheese production seems surreal, bordering on the extraordinary.

Allow me to delve into the world of cheese production and highlight some unique items in the catalog that include these unconventional ingredients.

The Science Behind Cheese Production

The traditional process of cheese production primarily involves the coagulation of milk, which is then curdled, drained, and aged. This process can be influenced by various factors, including the type of enzyme (like rennet), bacterial or mold cultures, and even food-grade acids. However, adding eggs and sour cream to this mix introduces a level of complexity that challenges conventional wisdom.

Unconventional Cheese Ingredients

Eggs: In certain artisanal cheese recipes, eggs play a vital role. They contribute to the texture, color, and overall flavor profile of the cheese. For instance, egg whites are sometimes used to add a creamy texture and enhance the cheesiness of a cheese blend. Eggs also act as a natural emulsifier, helping to incorporate air and fats for a silkier mouthfeel.

Sour Cream: Incorporating sour cream into cheese can elevate its richness and add a tangy taste. It also helps in the maturation process, transforming the cheese into something more complex and nuanced.

Mixed Ingredients: Some innovative cheesemakers blend eggs and sour cream with milk to create cheeses that offer a unique eating experience. For example, a cheese that combines the creamy richness of sour cream with the natural tanginess of eggs and the original milk can result in a cheese that is both decadent and versatile.

Examples of Uncommon Cheeses

1. Eggs and Sour Cream Cheese: This cheese type is usually prepared by combining milk with eggs and sour cream. The resulting product is a creamy and tangy cheese that is perfect for spreading or slicing. It is often favored in sandwich recipes and as a spread for crackers and bagels.

2. Artisan Eggs and Sour Cream Cheese: Cheesemakers experimenting with traditional recipes incorporate eggs and sour cream to create a more complex flavor profile. The cheese often has a smooth, creamy texture with a subtle tanginess.

3. Eggs and Sour Cream Cheesecakes: While not a cheese in its traditional form, creating a cheesecake with eggs and sour cream blended into the cheese can produce a dessert that is both rich and flavorful.

Conclusion

While the concept of cheese made with milk, eggs, and sour cream may sound unconventional at first, it opens up a new world of creativity and flavor. As the dairy industry continues to evolve, we are likely to see more innovative and exciting cheese variations that challenge our traditional notions of what cheese can be.

Thank you for your interest in this topic; your support helps in promoting the understanding and appreciation of the diverse and innovative aspects of cheese production.

Sincerely,
Sam Arora
Food Science, University of Guelph
Dairy Science, University of Punjab India