Extra sharp cheddar is a hard yellow or white cheese that has been aged for two years or longer and has a strong, pronounced flavor. The sharp flavor is created by bacteria found within the cheese, which is often sealed in wax or cloth while aging. It originated in the United Kingdom, like all cheddars, but is now produced all over the world. It’s a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, but it’s especially popular in Mexican and Spanish cuisines.
Heating the curds, adding salt, and kneading the mixture produces aged types of extra sharp cheddar cheese. The whey is then drained out by cutting it into cubes or loaves. They’re then stacked and rotated every ten minutes or so. The cheese is kept at a constant temperature until it reaches the desired sharpness. The loaves are frequently kept in underground caves, which provide ideal conditions for the cheese to mature.
Cheddar cheese sharpens over time as bacteria produce enzymes that break down the proteins and fats in the cheese. The result is a flavor that is robust, nutty, and almost meaty. As a result, it’s ideal for melting into sauces and serving as a topping for beef, chicken, or pork.
Extra sharp cheddar is sealed in black wax or wrapped in cloth by smaller companies while aging. This method of storage is said to improve the flavor of the cheese by allowing it to breathe. When stored in the deli drawer of a refrigerator, cheddar cheese will last for several weeks. It is not necessary to discard the cheese if it becomes moldy. The outer mold can be cut off and discarded, while the remaining cheese can be used.
Cheddar cheese can be used in a variety of dishes and can be added to any part of the meal. It can be served as an appetizer on top of crackers or cut into chunks and placed on a fruit or vegetable platter. Extra-sharp cheddar sauces are a great way to dress up a variety of dishes. As a tangy side dish, it can be mixed into pasta, potatoes, rice, or vegetables.
These sharp-tasting cheeses are frequently used in Mexican and Spanish dishes where a strong flavor is desired. Because aged cheddar cheese is crumblier than milder varieties, it can be grated or shredded and used as a topping for pizza, tacos, and burgers, as well as breads and casseroles. It can also be mixed with milder cheeses to create a more balanced flavor.