Canadian Cheddar Cheese

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What is Canadian Cheddar Cheese?

Overview

Canadian Cheddar is a high-quality cheese made from pasteurized or unpasteurized cow's, goat's, or sheep's milk. It originates from Canada, primarily Ontario, and falls under the Cheddar family. This hard cheese comes in various forms, including artisan and processed types, with a crumbly and open texture and a natural rind. Its color ranges from yellow to orange due to added food coloring, while its flavor is full-flavored, milky, salty, and sharp. The aroma is fresh, rich, and strong.

Notable Producers

The Balderson Cheese Company, located in Winchester, Ontario, is a leading producer of Canadian Cheddar. Founded in 1881 by dairy farmers in Lanark County, Balderson is renowned for its high-quality Cheddar, available in most grocery stores across Canada. Another prominent producer is Black Diamond Cheese Limited, established in 1933 in Belleville, Ontario. Both companies offer a range of Cheddars aged from three months to six years, with varying flavors and textures.

History

Although Cheddar cheese originated in England, Canada has become one of the top producers. Cheesemaking in Canada began in the early 1600s with the introduction of cattle by Samuel de Champlain in Quebec. By the mid-19th century, Ontario farmers began focusing on dairy farming, with Cheddar becoming a major export. In 1881, North America's first cheese-making school opened in Quebec. By the early 20th century, Cheddar had become Canada's second-largest export behind timber.

Over time, the rise of processed cheese products, like Kraft Dinner, led to a decline in traditional cheese production. Despite this, Canadian Cheddar remains highly regarded for its quality and flavor.

Production and Aging

Canadian Cheddar is produced mainly in Ontario by large companies and some artisanal producers. The cheese is aged for a minimum of three months and up to six years. The aging process affects the flavor, texture, and aroma of the cheese. Cheddar can be made from raw, pasteurized, or thermalized milk to retain more flavor-enhancing enzymes. The traditional cheddaring process involves kneading curd with salt, draining whey, and stacking the curd blocks.

Types of Cheddar

Canadian Cheddar comes in various types, including Mild, Medium, and Marble Cheddar, ideal for snacking and lighter foods. Old and Extra Old Cheddar are best for shredding, slicing, and pairing with wines and ales. Popular flavored Cheddars in Canada include cranberry, dill, flax, garlic, jalapeno, olive, and sun-dried tomato.

Texture and Flavor

Canadian Cheddar is known for its smooth, creamy texture and balance of flavor and sharpness. The cheese can vary in texture from crumbly to firm, depending on its age. Its flavor profile ranges from mild and milky to sharp and pungent, with a rich and strong aroma.

Pairings

Canadian Cheddar pairs well with a variety of beverages. It complements wines such as Merlot, Syrah, Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Riesling. For beer lovers, it pairs well with Porter, Pale Ale, and Stout. Scotch, cider, and fruit beer are also good choices for pairing with Cheddar.

Key Facts About Canadian Cheddar Cheese

Country of Origin Canada
Specific Origin Ontario
Texture Firm , Hard
Colors Yellow