Grocery
Blue Cheese
What it is
Blue cheese is a type of cheese made with cultures of the mold Penicillium. The mold gives the cheese its characteristic blue or green veins and a distinct aroma. It is typically a semi-soft cheese with a crumbly texture, though variations exist. The flavor can range from mild and creamy to sharp and pungent, depending on the specific type and aging process. It is a popular ingredient in many cuisines worldwide.
How people cook with it
This cheese adds a bold flavor to both savory and sweet dishes. It is often used as a topping or incorporated into sauces and dressings.
- Crumbled over salads
- Melted into sauces
- Spread on crackers
- Paired with fruit
Blue cheese can be enjoyed in many ways. It is excellent crumbled over green salads, especially those with pears or walnuts, to add a tangy counterpoint. It melts beautifully into creamy pasta sauces or can be whisked into a vinaigrette for a zesty salad dressing. For a simple appetizer, serve it with crusty bread or crackers, perhaps alongside some honey or fig jam. It also pairs well with red meat dishes, adding depth to a steak sauce or a burger topping. Its strong flavor means a little goes a long way.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike cheddar or mozzarella, blue cheese is characterized by its internal blue-green veining from specific mold cultures. This mold imparts a sharp, pungent flavor and a distinct aroma that sets it apart from milder cheeses. Its texture is often more crumbly than that of many other cheese types.
Who it is for
Cooks looking to add a strong, distinctive flavor to their dishes will appreciate blue cheese.
How to keep the rest
To store leftover blue cheese, wrap it tightly in parchment paper or cheese paper, then place it in a plastic bag or airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator. This helps to maintain its moisture and prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge. It is best consumed within a few weeks for optimal flavor.