Cheese, a beloved dairy product that has been a staple in human diets for thousands of years now. They have rich history, cultural significance, diverse flavors and textures that make them a fascinating subject for studies. Cheese has found its way into countless recipes and culinary traditions that not only tantalize your taste buds but also melt your mind.
Let us look at some interesting facts about cheese that may or may not blow your mind but will definitely help grace your tables the best way possible for different occasions.
Interesting And Fun Facts About Cheese
- Cheese-making can be dated back to 7,000 years, with evidence suggesting that it originated in what is now the country of Poland.
- In some cultures, cheese has been used as a form of currency. For example, in ancient Rome, soldiers were sometimes paid with cheese as part of their wages.
- Cheese can be broadly categorized into four types: fresh, soft, semi-soft, and hard. The aging process and moisture content determine these categories.
- Blue cheese gets its distinctive color from Penicillium mold, the same mold used to make penicillin.
- Greece tops the list for the highest per capita cheese consumption, with an average of 68 pounds cheese consumption per person per year.
- The world of cheese is vastly diverse, with over 2,000 varieties. Each type has its unique characteristics, ranging from soft and spreadable to hard and crumbly.
- String cheese gets its name from the way it can be peeled into thin strings. This snack is popular among both children and adults.
- The holes in Swiss cheese, such as Emmental or Gruyère, are called “eyes.” They are formed by carbon dioxide released by bacteria during fermentation.
- Pule, a Serbian cheese made from the milk of Balkan donkeys, holds the title of the world’s most expensive cheese, priced at around $1,000 per pound.
- Queen Margherita of Italy, in the late 19th century, gave her royal approval to pizza when she enjoyed a version topped with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. This pizza style is now known as Margherita pizza.
- There are artists who use cheese as their medium for sculpting. Intricate and detailed sculptures, including replicas of famous landmarks, are crafted entirely from cheese.
- Wisconsin is often referred to as the “Cheese State” in the United States, producing over 600 different varieties of cheese.
- Archaeologists discovered the world’s oldest cheese in the tomb of Ptahmes, the mayor of Memphis in ancient Egypt. The cheese, dating back to around 1615 BCE, was still edible.
- Cheese contains an amino acid called tyrosine, which is a precursor to dopamine—the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. This could very much be the reason why cheese is often associated with feelings of happiness.
- In several cultures, giving cheese as a gift symbolizes good luck and prosperity. In the Netherlands, for example, a popular wedding tradition involves the bride and groom cutting a wheel of cheese together.
- Before the invention of refrigeration, cheese played a crucial role in preserving milk. The fermentation and aging processes helped extend the shelf life of dairy products.
- In 2018, a cheese peace treaty was signed between the United States and the European Union. This agreement resolved trade disputes related to the names of certain cheeses, ensuring protection for products like feta and Gouda.
- The largest cheese board ever assembled measured over 2,000 square feet and featured a vast array of cheeses. It was created in Madison, Wisconsin, showcasing the state’s rich cheese culture.
- Different cultures have different customs when it comes to cheese consumption. For example in France, it’s customary to serve cheese before dessert, while in the United States, cheese is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.
- Cheese is often associated with terms like fat, greasey, obesity, amongst others, but it also provides essential nutrients such as calcium, protein, and vitamin B12. Moderation is key reason for its high fat content.
Also Read: 28 Grilled Cheeses That Could Be Better Than Your Boyfriend.
The Art Of Pairing Cheese
- Cheese and Wine: The classic
- Fresh and Creamy Cheeses with Sparkling Wines
- Aged and Hard Cheeses with Bold Reds
- Blue Cheeses and Sweet Dessert Wines
- Beverages With Cheese: Personalized Twist
- Craft Beers and Artisanal Cheeses
- Spirits and Cheese
- Fruit And Nut With Cheese: Creating An Art
- Crackers and Cheese
- Nature’s berries and nuts with cheese
- Condiments and spreads with cheese
Also Read: 21 Weird Things About America That Americans Don’t Realize Are Weird
Conclusion
Cheese, with its rich history and diversity in varieties of flavor, texture, and essence, continues to captivate taste buds people from all over the world. Dating back to the ancient origins to the present time, the world of cheese is as vast and intriguing as the flavors it has to offer. The journey of cheese spans continents and cultures, leaving an indelible mark on our culinary landscape.
The art of pairing cheese is a defined and rewarding experience. Whether exploring classic combinations with wine or venturing into exploring with different varients like beverages,nuts, fruits and several other unique accompaniments where the possibilities are as vast as it gets.
So, the next time you indulge in a cheesy delight, remember these fun and interesting facts that will add an extra layer of appreciation to every single bite.