A truckle of cheese is a cylindrical shaped cheese that is traditionally made from cow’s milk and has been a popular staple in British and Irish households for centuries.
The word “truckle” comes from the old English word “trucele,” which means small wheel. The cheese is made by hand and is left to mature for several months, giving it a distinct flavor and texture.
Types of Cheese in a Truckle
Cheddar
Cheddar is one of the most common types of cheese found in truckles. It is made from cow’s milk and has a hard, smooth texture.
Cheddar is aged for a minimum of three months, but can be aged for up to two years. The aging process gives cheddar its sharp, tangy flavor that is perfect for pairing with crackers, fruits, or wine.
Gouda
Gouda is another popular type of cheese found in truckles. It is made from cow’s milk and has a semi-hard texture. Gouda is aged for a minimum of three months, but can be aged for up to a year.
The aging process gives gouda its nutty and sweet flavor that is perfect for pairing with bread, crackers, or fruit.
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese is a type of cheese that has blue or green veins running through it. The blue or green veins are caused by a type of mold called Penicillium Roqueforti.
Blue cheese is made from cow’s milk and has a soft, crumbly texture. It is aged for a minimum of three months, but can be aged for up to a year.
The aging process gives blue cheese its pungent, sharp flavor that is perfect for pairing with crackers, fruits, or wine.
Other types of cheese commonly found in truckles:
- Red Leicester
- Wensleydale
- Caerphilly
- Stilton
Characteristics of a Truckle Cheese
Size and Shape
Truckle cheeses are cylindrical shaped and typically weigh between 1-5 kg. They have a natural rind that is typically waxed, which helps to protect the cheese and maintain its shape.
Texture
The texture of a truckle cheese can vary depending on the type of cheese and the aging process. Cheddar has a hard, smooth texture, while gouda has a semi-hard texture, and blue cheese has a soft, crumbly texture.
Flavor
The flavor of a truckle cheese can also vary depending on the type of cheese and the aging process. Cheddar has a sharp, tangy flavor, while gouda has a nutty and sweet flavor, and blue cheese has a pungent, sharp flavor.
Aging Process
The aging process is an important factor in determining the flavor and texture of a truckle cheese.
Cheeses are typically aged for a minimum of three months, but can be aged for up to two years. The longer a cheese is aged, the sharper and more complex the flavor will be.
Uses and Serving Suggestions
Pairing with Wine or Beer
Truckle cheeses are often paired with wine or beer as they complement each other perfectly.
Cheddar pairs well with red wine, while gouda pairs well with white wine. Blue cheese pairs well with sweet wine or beer.
Cooking with Truckle Cheese
Truckle cheeses can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to sandwiches and pizzas. They can also be melted over vegetables, potatoes, and meat dishes.
Cheddar is a popular ingredient in mac and cheese, while gouda is often used in grilled cheese sandwiches. Blue cheese can be used as a topping for salads or as a dip.
Serving as a Snack or Appetizer
Truckle cheeses are also perfect for serving as a snack or appetizer. They can be served with crackers, bread, or fruit.
They can also be served as part of a cheese platter with a variety of different cheeses and accompaniments.
How to Store and Care for a Truckle of Cheese
Proper Storage Temperatures
It is important to store truckle cheeses at the proper temperature to ensure that they stay fresh and maintain their flavor.
Cheeses should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 33-40°F. They should be wrapped tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
Wrapping and Packaging
It is important to wrap and package truckle cheeses properly to prevent them from drying out. Cheeses can be wrapped in wax paper or plastic wrap and then placed in a plastic container.
They can also be placed in a cheese bag that is designed to allow the cheese to breathe.
Tips for Maintaining Freshness
To maintain the freshness of truckle cheeses, it is important to keep them wrapped tightly and stored at the proper temperature. They should also be consumed within a reasonable time frame, usually around two weeks, depending on the type of cheese.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a truckle of cheese is a cylindrical shaped cheese that is traditionally made from cow’s milk and has been a popular staple in British and Irish households for centuries. They are available in various types of cheese such as Cheddar, Gouda, Blue Cheese, and others.
The aging process and the type of cheese used determine the texture and flavor of the cheese. They can be paired with wine or beer, used in cooking, serving as a snack or appetizer, and should be stored and cared for properly to maintain its freshness.
For further information and exploration of truckle cheese, you can refer to books, websites, or visit a local cheese maker.
How do I know if a truckle of cheese is fresh?
When purchasing a truckle of cheese, it’s important to inspect it for any signs of spoilage, such as mold or a strong, sour smell. It’s also important to check the expiration date on the packaging.
If the cheese is stored and cared for properly, it should have a shelf life of around two weeks, depending on the type of cheese.
Can I freeze a truckle of cheese?
It is possible to freeze a truckle of cheese, but it may affect the texture and flavor of the cheese. Hard cheeses such as cheddar can be frozen, but it is best to wrap them tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap before freezing.
Soft cheeses, such as blue cheese, should not be frozen as it will change the texture and can cause the cheese to become crumbly.
Can I eat the rind of a truckle cheese?
The rind of a truckle cheese is edible but it depends on the type of rind. Natural rinds are usually edible and have a distinct flavor, but waxed rinds are not edible and should be removed before consuming the cheese.
What are some good accompaniments to serve with truckle cheese?
Truckle cheeses are often paired with crackers, bread, or fruit. They can also be served with a variety of accompaniments such as nuts, honey, chutneys, and dried fruits.
How do I properly cut a truckle of cheese?
When cutting a truckle of cheese, it’s important to use a sharp knife. For hard cheeses such as cheddar, it is best to cut the cheese into wedges.
For soft cheeses such as blue cheese, it is best to use a fork to break off pieces. It’s also important to cut the cheese in such a way that each piece has some of the rind included, as it adds to the overall flavor and texture of the cheese.