Cheese Storage 101: Best Way to Store Your Cheese

As cheese lovers, we all know the disappointment of reaching for our favorite cheese only to find it dry, moldy, or worse - flavorless. The best way to store cheese is not just about preserving it; it's about maintaining its quality, flavor, and texture. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore expert techniques and tips to ensure your cheese stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

Why Proper Cheese Storage Matters

Before diving into the specifics of cheese storage, it's important to understand why it matters. Cheese is a living food, continuing to age and develop even after you bring it home. Proper storage can:

1. Extend shelf life

2. Preserve flavor and aroma

3. Maintain texture

4. Prevent unwanted mold growth

5. Save money by reducing waste

With these benefits in mind, let's explore the best ways to store different types of cheese.

General Principles of Cheese Storage

Regardless of the type of cheese, some universal principles apply:

1. Avoid plastic wrap: It can trap moisture and promote bacterial growth.

2. Allow cheese to breathe: Use materials that allow some air circulation.

3. Maintain consistent temperature: Fluctuations can affect texture and flavor.

4. Control humidity: Too much moisture encourages mold, while too little dries out the cheese.

Now, let's break down storage methods by cheese type.

Storing Hard Cheeses

Examples: Parmesan, Pecorino, aged Cheddar

Hard cheeses are the most forgiving when it comes to storage. Their low moisture content makes them less prone to mold and bacterial growth. However, they can still dry out if not stored properly.

Best way to store hard cheese:

1. Wrap in cheese paper or parchment paper

2. Place in a plastic container with ventilation holes

3. Store in the vegetable crisper drawer of your refrigerator

4. Ideal temperature: 35-45°F (1-7°C)

5. Check and rewrap weekly

Pro tip: For large blocks of hard cheese, only cut what you need and keep the rest whole. The package helps protect the cheese from drying out.

Storing Semi-Hard Cheeses

Examples: Young Cheddar, Gruyère, Manchego, Gouda

Semi-hard cheeses require a bit more attention than their harder counterparts. They have a higher moisture content, making them more susceptible to mold growth and drying out.

Best way to store semi-hard cheese:

1. Wrap in cheese paper or wax paper

2. Place in a resealable plastic bag with some air left inside

3. Store in the main part of the refrigerator

4. Ideal temperature: 40-45°F (4-7°C)

5. Check and rewrap every few days

Expert insight: According to cheese expert Steven Jenkins, author of "Cheese Primer," semi-hard cheeses benefit from being rewrapped in fresh paper every few days to prevent moisture buildup.

Storing Soft Cheeses

Examples: Brie, Camembert, Curds, Mozzarella

Soft cheeses are the most delicate and require the most attention. Their high moisture content makes them ideal breeding grounds for bacteria and mold.

Best way to store soft cheese:

1. Keep in original packaging or wrap in cheese paper

2. Place in an airtight container

3. Store in the warmest part of the refrigerator (usually the top shelf)

4. Ideal temperature: 35-40°F (1-4°C)

5. Consume within a few days of opening

Note: For fresh Mozzarella, store it in its original brine or whey solution. If none is available, use salted water.

Storing Blue Cheeses

Examples: Roquefort, Gorgonzola, Stilton

Blue cheeses are unique due to their beneficial mold content. They require storage methods that prevent the mold from spreading to other foods while maintaining the cheese's quality.

Best way to store blue cheese:

1. Wrap in aluminum foil

2. Place in an airtight container

3. Store in the vegetable crisper drawer

4. Ideal temperature: 38-45°F (3-7°C)

5. Check weekly and rewrap if necessary

Cheese expert tip: To prevent blue cheese odors from permeating other foods, double-wrap it or store it in a separate compartment.

The Role of Cheese Paper

You've probably noticed that cheese paper is frequently mentioned as the best wrapping material. But what exactly is cheese paper, and why is it so effective?

Cheese paper is a specially designed two-ply paper that allows cheese to breathe while protecting it from external moisture and odors. The inner layer wicks away excess moisture from the cheese, while the outer layer provides a barrier against outside elements.

While professional cheese paper is ideal, parchment paper or wax paper can serve as suitable alternatives for home storage.

The Importance of Temperature and Humidity

Temperature and humidity play crucial roles in cheese storage. According to a study published in the International Journal of Food Microbiology, maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels can significantly extend the shelf life of cheese and preserve its quality.

Ideal storage conditions:

- Temperature: 35-45°F (1-7°C)

- Relative Humidity: 80-90%

Your refrigerator's vegetable crisper drawer often provides the best balance of temperature and humidity for most cheeses.

Freezing Cheese: Yes or No?

While freezing isn't ideal for most cheeses, it can be a last resort to prevent waste. Here's what you need to know:

- How to freeze: Cut into small portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil

- Freezer storage time: Up to 6 months

- Thawing: In the refrigerator, never at room temperature

Remember, freezing can alter the texture of cheese, making it more crumbly. Thawed cheese is best used for cooking rather than eating fresh.

Serving Your Perfectly Stored Cheese

Now that you've mastered the art of cheese storage, here are some tips for serving:

1. Bring cheese to room temperature before serving (about 30-60 minutes)

2. Use separate knives or rinse off between each cheese to prevent flavor mixing

3. Serve soft cheeses whole and cut hard cheeses into small pieces

4. Pair with complementary foods like fruits, nuts, and crackers

(Check out our Charcuterie blog for more information on preparations and pairings.)

FAQs About Cheese Storage

Q: Can I store different types of cheese together?

A: It's best to store cheeses separately to prevent flavor transfer and mold spread. If you must store them together, keep them in separate airtight containers.

Q: How long can cheese sit out at room temperature?

A: Generally, cheese shouldn't be left out for more than 2 hours after their package is opened. However, harder cheeses can tolerate longer periods at room temperature.

Q: Can I store cheese in olive oil?

A: While some cheeses like feta can be stored in olive oil, it's not recommended for most cheeses as it can alter their flavor and texture.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Cheese Storage

Understanding the best way to store cheese is key to enjoying your favorite varieties at their peak flavor and texture. By following these expert tips and techniques, you can extend the life of your cheese, reduce waste, and always have perfectly preserved cheese on hand for your culinary adventures.

Remember, proper storage is about creating the right environment for each type of cheese. With a little attention to wrapping, temperature, and humidity, you can become a master of cheese preservation.

So, the next time you bring home a delectable block of cheese, you'll know exactly how to care for it. Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you for keeping your cheese fresh and flavorful. Happy cheese storing!