Bavarian Gold Cheese
Introduction
Bavarian Gold Cheese is a rich and creamy cheese known for its smooth texture and delightful flavor. It originates from the Bavarian region of Germany, where cheese-making has been a respected tradition for centuries. This cheese is perfect for cheese boards, sandwiches, or simply enjoying on its own.
History of Bavarian Cheese-making
The art of cheese-making in Bavaria dates back to the Roman times. Over the centuries, Bavarian cheesemakers have perfected their craft, creating unique cheese varieties that are renowned worldwide. Bavarian Gold Cheese is a relatively new addition to the spectrum, known for its luxurious texture and golden hue.
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1: Gather Ingredients
Ensure you have all the ingredients ready: whole milk, cheese culture, rennet, and sea salt.
Step 2: Prepare the Milk
Pour the whole milk into a large pot and slowly warm it up to 32°C (90°F). It's important to maintain this temperature throughout the cheese-making process. Use a cooking timer to keep track of the duration.
Cheese-making Process
Step 1: Adding Cheese Culture
Once the milk reaches the desired temperature, sprinkle the cheese culture on top. Allow it to rehydrate for 5 minutes before stirring it in thoroughly.
Step 2: Add Rennet
Next, add rennet to the milk, stirring gently for about a minute. Use a cooking timer to ensure accuracy. Cover the pot and let it sit undisturbed for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Cut the Curds
After 30 minutes, the milk should have set into a gel. Using a long knife, cut the curds into small cubes. This allows the whey to escape, resulting in a firmer cheese.
Step 4: Drain the Curds
Carefully lift the curds into a cheesecloth-lined colander to drain the whey. Sprinkle sea salt evenly over the curds and mix gently.
Step 5: Aging the Cheese
Transfer the salted curds into a mold and press them under a weight of about 10 kg (22 pounds) for 12 hours. Age the cheese for at least 2 months in a cool, humid environment.
Enjoying Bavarian Gold Cheese
Serving Suggestions
Bavarian Gold Cheese is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Pair it with fresh fruits and nuts for a balanced cheese board. It melts beautifully, making it an excellent choice for gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.
Wine Pairings
This cheese pairs well with crisp white wines or light red wines like Pinot Noir, complementing its creamy texture and enhancing its flavors.