How to Store Blue Cheese in the Refrigerator for Maximum Freshness and Longevity
Blue cheese is known for its distinct aroma, creamy texture, and tangy flavor. Proper storage is essential to ensure it stays fresh for as long as possible. Follow these detailed steps to store your blue cheese in the refrigerator and enjoy its unique qualities for several weeks to a few months.
Proper Wrapping
Start by wrapping the blue cheese in parchment paper or wax paper. These materials allow the cheese to breathe while protecting it from moisture and odors. Avoid plastic wrap, as it can trap moisture and promote mold growth. Parchment paper is ideal for this purpose as it provides a barrier against external odors without compromising the cheese's moisture content.
Airtight Container
Once properly wrapped, place the cheese into an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. The airtight container adds an extra layer of protection, ensuring that the cheese remains fresh and prevents it from drying out. The tight seal also helps in minimizing any external odors that could affect the flavor of the cheese.
The Right Storage Spot
Store the cheese in the vegetable drawer of your refrigerator, which is designed with higher humidity levels. This helps in maintaining the moisture content of the cheese and prevents it from becoming dry. The low temperature and controlled humidity of the refrigerator keep the cheese fresh and prevent it from deteriorating quickly.
Regular Inspection
Regularly inspect the cheese for any signs of spoilage or excessive mold growth. If you notice mold, it is important to remove it carefully, cutting it away about an inch around the mold. Blue cheese, by nature, has a certain amount of mold, but it is crucial to ensure that it does not become contaminated with other types of bacteria that could render the cheese unsafe for consumption. If you are unsure, discard the cheese.
Cheese Keeper
A cheese keeper or a dedicated cheese storage container can also help maintain the ideal humidity and airflow for your blue cheese. These containers are designed to keep the cheese at the perfect temperature and humidity level, ensuring its freshness. If you own one, utilizing it will undoubtedly extend the shelf life of your blue cheese.
Additional Tips for Longer Storage
Freezing: If you have a hard blue cheese like Stilton, Shropshire, or Danish blue, consider using a part of it within a week and vacuum-sealing it. After vacuum-sealing, you can even freeze it. Although the flavor might suffer a bit, freezing can significantly extend the shelf life of the cheese.
Refrigerator Temperature: Make sure your refrigerator is set at a suitable temperature, ideally between 3 to 5 degrees Celsius (37 to 41°F). This temperature will help in maintaining the integrity of the cheese.
Use of Aluminum Foil: Wrapping the cheese in aluminum foil not only helps in maintaining freshness but also has some antibacterial properties that can help in keeping your cheese fresh. Alternatively, waxed paper or parchment, which is what cheese is usually packaged in, is the next best thing.
Clean Cut: Use a clean knife specifically for cutting cheese, separate from the one used for other food items. This prevents cross-contamination and helps in maintaining the quality of the cheese.
Keep the Rind: If your cheese has a rind, it is important to keep it on until you are ready to consume the cheese. The rind serves as a protective layer, preventing the cheese from spoiling and maintaining its flavors.
Hard cheeses vs Soft cheeses: In general, harder blue cheeses last longer than softer ones. Industrial-produced cheese typically lasts longer but often at the cost of flavor. Artisanal cheeses, while more flavorful, have a shorter shelf life.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your blue cheese remains fresh and flavorful for as long as possible. Enjoy the rich, tangy flavors of your favorite blue cheese, knowing that it has been stored properly to maintain its quality and integrity.