We all know that cheese needs to be kept in the fridge but can you freeze cheese? The answer is yes but it depends on the type of which the properties are different.
Although it is possible to freeze any cheese without any health risks, it comes to the next question: “Is it a good idea to freeze cheese?” The answer, in general, is no. Freezing affects directly the texture or even, the original shape of the cheese.
With this mind, we’re writing about how freezing affects cheese and some types of cheese that can be frozen.
Effects of freezing cheese
Cheeses can serve as a favorite food and a preferred cooking ingredient. Freezing them is completely safe to extend their life, however, the process may affect the texture and taste of the cheeses. It is resulted from the formation of ice crystal in cheese during storage.
Not just that, the cheese becomes crumbly when thawed, making it best used for cooking instead of individual tasting. To reduce its effect, you should thaw frozen cheese in the fridge and use it within two or three days.
Ways to freeze cheese
There are two common ways to freeze cheese. One is to grate it and then pop it in a freezer bag. The other is to cut it into small pieces (about ½ pound each) and wrap in airtight wrapping. It’s best to keep cheese in freezer for no more than 6 months and thaw it in refrigerator before using.
If you don’t want to freeze cheese, you should keep them in cold and dry places in which temperature is stable, vegetable shelf of fridge, for instance.
Cheeses that can be frozen
As better at dealing with freezing and maintaining their texture, shredded firmer cheeses are most recommended for freezing. Blocks of cheese can also freeze well, but they are more crumbly when defrosted.
Here are some cheeses that you could freeze, Gouda, Swiss, Havarti, Emmental, Parmesan, Feta, and Mozzarella.
Cheeses that should never been frozen
In contrast with firm cheeses, soft cheeses are bad idea for freezing process. The reason is simple: the moisture within cheese triggers ice crystal during storage, causing the curbs and whey separated when thawed.
Some that you should void freezing are: Brie, Camembert, Stilton, cream cheese, and low- fat cheese.
Freezing is a safe method to preserve and extend the shelf life of cheese but you should pay attention to types that can be frozen and those that should not. By doing so, you will enjoy the best benefits of this healthy protein food as well as avoid wasting them due to wrong storage.
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