Say 'cheese', in so many different ways!

the world has certainly moved on from simple cheddar and mozzarella. Today,
there are so many ways to enjoy the dairy delight.

If you feel intimidated looking at the vast variety at a supermarket, fret no more.
Take a look at the different avatars of cheese and ways to enjoy them...
VARIETIES
Roquefort

It's being credited with being the secret of long life for the French. A new
research says the sharp, blue cheese can help guard against cardiovascular
disease. They also found that the aged cheese has anti-inflammatory factors.
Camembert: Soft, creamy camembert has earthy intense aroma. Folklore has it
that way back in the eighth century, Emperor Charlemagne of France tasted the
cheese at a monastery and loved it. The cheese pairs well with fruit.
Cotija

Mexican cotija cheese is of a hard, dry variety. It tastes tangy and resembles feta
cheese. The cheese does not melt and it can be crumbled or grated over eggs,
soups, tacos and bakes or as a stuffing in eggplant.
Queso fresco

Fresh milky queso cheese is apt for dinner time when you want to indulge in
something light. Also a Mexican cheese, it is made from cow milk or a
combination of cow and goat milk and complements salads or grilled dishes.
Chevre

Also called goat's cheese, French chevre is a light variety that makes for an apt
dessert cheese and can be served on crackers at a party, too. It is also infused
with flavours like garlic and pepper.
Taleggio

Taleggio from Lombardy, Italy, is one of the softest cheeses with a pungent
aroma and a moldy rind. It has a buttery intense taste and can be chopped into
salads or used to top savoury dishes.
Feta: A soft, brined white cheese made from goat or sheep milk, feta is
considered one of the healthiest cheeses. It is laden with nutrients has
vitamins B6, B12, calcium, riboflavin, sodium, selenium etc. The cheese melts
quickly and is added to pies, sandwiches, mashed potatoes and in dips.
Mozzarella: Good ol' Italian mozzarella can be had whole or sliced or shaved. It
is stringy, slightly salty and is prized for its flavour and is suited for pizzas,
pastas and risottos. Fresh mozzarella is best eaten as soon as it is purchased.
Cheddar: One of the world's most popular cheeses, this comes from England. It
has a range of flavours from mild to acidic and sharp. It can be used in practically
anything from your sandwiches, to casseroles and burgers.
Parmigiano-Reggiano: Also called goat's cheese, French chevre is a light
variety that makes for an apt dessert cheese and can be served on crackers at a
party, too. It is also infused.
Emmental

The yellowish hard Swiss cheese with dots has a sweet, nutty flavour. The holes
in it are formed due to gas bubbles released by bacteria. It works in fondues and
sauces.
Monterey Jack

Also called goat's cheese, French chevre is a light variety that makes for an apt
dessert cheese and can be served on crackers at a party, too. It is also infused
with.
Manchego: Coming from the La Mancha region of Spain, manchego is slightly
aged and has a buttery taste. A hard cheese, manchego goes well with tapas.
Gouda

Dutch gouda cheese is a semi-hard cheese with a deep flavour. It can be grated
over dishes. Smoked gouda is often on the party menu and goes with dark
chocolate and nuts. It is another good variety of melting cheese.
Pecorino-Toscano

Made from sheep's milk, this table cheese has a sharp taste. It is a good
substitute for expensive cheese.
HOW IT'S CLASSIFIED...
There are several types of cheese, which is classified into groups or
distinguished by these factors...
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: The place where the cheese was first developed .
TYPE OF MILK: The type of milk that it is made from matters, too.
AGING: Bacteria plays a crucial role in enhancing the taste of cheese.
TEXTURE: Grainy, soft, crumbly etc.

AS HEALTHY AS IT GETS Here's why you should eat more of cheese...

Cheese is a rich source of calcium, proteins, vitamin A, B12 and zinc.

It strengthens bones and reduces osteoporosis risk.

A daily intake promotes tooth health.

It also has probiotics that help clean the gut.

Cheese has tryptophan, which reduces stress and thus, helps one sleep better.

It also works wonders on the skin and hair.

Heat the cheese on the stove.

Transfer it to the fondue pot.

Prepare the croutons and other dipping veggies. Enjoy!