Smoked cheese is a high-end delicacy that adds a touch of smoky flavor to your favorite dishes. While it can cost quite a bit more than regular cheese, you can easily create your own smoked cheese at home using simple methods. In this guide, we will explore the process of smoking cheese, the equipment needed, and the different types of cheese and smoke wood you can use. We will also discuss the reasons why smoked cheese is so delicious and provide some serving suggestions.
The Cold Smoking Method
Smoking cheese involves cold smoking, which means keeping the temperature below 90 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent the cheese from melting. The general setup includes placing a cooking grate or a cake cooling rack on top of an aluminum tin filled with ice. The cheese sits on the grate or cooling rack while the smoke rolls around it. This setup acts as a buffer for any high heat that might reach the cheese.
The Charcoal Grill Method
If you have a charcoal grill, it is the easiest way to smoke cheese. Start by lighting a few charcoals on one side of the grill and letting them ash over. Then, add a handful of wood chips on top. Position the aluminum tin with ice on the opposite side of the heat source, and place the grate and cheese as far away as possible. Close the grill and allow the smoke to infuse the cheese. If the smoke dies down, add more unlit charcoal briquettes and wood chips. The smoking time can vary depending on your preference, ranging from one to three hours.
The Gas Grill Method
If you don't have a charcoal grill, you can use a gas grill to cold smoke cheese. However, you won't be using the gas grill for heat. Instead, you'll need a low-heat 750 watt electric hot plate placed on the grill grates. On top of the hot plate, set an aluminum pie pan filled with wood chips. Cover the pan with aluminum foil, poking a few holes on top. Place the hot plate on one side of the grill and the aluminum tin with ice on the other side. Position the grate or cooling rack with the cheese on top of the tin. Adjust the hot plate's heat to keep the temperature below 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Smoke the cheese for one to three hours, adding more wood chips if needed.
Types of Cheese and Smoke Wood
You can smoke any type of cheese you like, but the most popular choices include Mozzarella, cheddar, American, Monterey Jack, Gouda, Brie, Swiss, and Gruyere. It's best to use low-cost grocery store cheese, as the smoke will enhance its flavor. If the cheese block is too big, cut it into smaller pieces to allow for even smoke penetration.
When it comes to smoke wood, the most common options are hickory, mesquite, apple, and cherry. Hickory and mesquite provide stronger smoke flavors, while apple and cherry offer milder ones. The choice of smoke wood depends on your personal preference and the type of cheese you're smoking. A stronger-flavored cheese pairs well with a milder smoke, while a milder cheese can handle a stronger smoke.
Why Smoked Cheese is So Good
Smoked cheese adds a unique flavor to any dish, making it more exciting and delicious. Whether it's a fruit and cheese board, mac and cheese, or a grilled cheese sandwich, smoked cheese takes the flavor to a whole new level. Wisconsin, known for its cheese production, offers a variety of smoked cheeses that can elevate your culinary creations.
- Can you eat smoked cheese? Yes, smoked cheese is safe to eat. After the smoking process, wrap the cheese with cling wrap or vacuum seal it and refrigerate it for about three days. This allows the smoke to penetrate the cheese, enhancing its flavor.
Smoked cheese is a delightful addition to any meal, and you can easily create your own at home. With the cold smoking methods explained above, you can infuse your favorite types of cheese with smoky goodness. Remember to keep the temperature below 90 degrees Fahrenheit and experiment with different cheese and smoke wood combinations to find your perfect flavor. Enjoy your homemade smoked cheese in various dishes, and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!
If you want to know other articles similar to Guide to smoked cheese: create delicious smoky flavors at home you can visit the Smoked cheese category.
Related Articles