Tuesday, March 07, 2006

who knew?

I LOVE cheese, but I never know the best way to store it. This is from Real Simple. I thought I'd share:

Question: I like to buy a variety of cheese. I usually store them in ziploc bags. Is there a better or neater way to store cheese?

Answer: A resealable plastic bag will do the job, though it's not the ideal storage solution. The best way to wrap leftover cheese really depends on the particular type. Stash the cheese in the vegetable crisper of the refrigerator where the temperature is cold and stable. Use a fresh piece of plastic wrap or wax paper to rewrap it after each use. The length of time you can keep cheese also varies according to the variety; in general, the harder the cheese, the longer it will last.
Hard, aged cheeses (Parmigiano-Reggiano, aged Gouda): First, wrap in wax or parchment paper, then add a layer of plastic wrap.
Blue cheeses (Gorgonzola, Roquefort): Wrap in plastic wrap.
Semi-hard and hard cheeses (Cheddar, Swiss, Gruyere): Wrap in plastic wrap.
Soft, semi-soft, and stinky cheeses (Goat, Camembert, Brie, Limburger): Place in a resealable plastic container.
Fresh cheeses in water (Mozzarella or feta): Leave the cheese in the original packaging, changing the water every couple of days.

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Ah... A post right up my alley. While these instructions may be right, who in their right mind is going to follow such a complicated list ! The best and simplest way is to put all your cheese in the tupperware Boite a Fromage in the fridge (take out of the fridge 2hrs before dinner). This thing is amazing - no smell, lasts longer. Brilliant!!

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evil twin #2 said...

I want one! But I can't seem to find one here--maybe I'll pick one up after your wedding =)

Anonymous said...

buy it on french e-bay and have them mail it to you in NYC!

Zandrea! said...

I find that knowing how to store cheese is only useful if it lasts long enough to be put away. On Oscar night we enjoyed some fine cheddar with caramalized onions as well as a double creme brie. If one reads all the articles on Trader Joe's in today's Times, be sure to check out the spicy Thai Lime peanuts-- they really are fabulous!

Evil said...

little known fact: evil twin #2 is half mouse.

evil twin #2 said...

hmm... I am a bit of a pack rat.