Australian cheese is diverse and varies greatly in terms of flavor, texture, and origin. Some of the most popular types of Australian cheese include:
- Cheddar: A hard cheese that ranges from mild to sharp in flavor and is made from cow’s milk.
- Feta: A crumbly, salt-cured cheese that is made from sheep and/or goat’s milk. It is commonly used in salads and sandwiches.
- Blue cheese: A strong, tangy cheese that is made from either cow, sheep or goat’s milk and has blue/green veins of mold running through it.
- Brie: A soft, creamy cheese that is made from cow’s milk and has a delicate, mushroom-like flavor.
- Haloumi: A semi-hard cheese that is made from sheep and/or goat’s milk and has a high melting point, making it great for grilling or frying.
- Roquefort: A blue cheese that is made from sheep’s milk and has a strong, tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
- Fromage frais: A fresh cheese that is similar to cottage cheese and ricotta, made from cow’s milk and has a mild, tangy flavor.
Many Australian cheeses are made using traditional techniques and are crafted using milk from local farms and dairies, which give them a unique taste and character. Australia has also a diverse culture of cheese makers, immigrants from Italy, Greece, France and other countries brought their traditional cheese-making techniques, making the Australian cheese scene very diverse.
Tips on tasting cheese:
- Start with mild cheeses and work your way up to stronger, more pungent varieties. This will allow you to fully appreciate the nuances of each cheese.
- Taste the cheese at room temperature. Cold temperatures can mask the true flavors of a cheese.
- Taste the cheese in a specific order, beginning with the rind, then the body, and finally the paste of the cheese.
- Pay attention to the texture of the cheese. It should be smooth and creamy for fresh cheeses, and firmer for aged varieties.
- Take note of the flavors and aromas of the cheese. Different cheeses will have distinct notes of fruit, nuts, herbs, and even flowers.
- Pair your cheese with a complementary drink, such as wine, beer or cider, to bring out the different flavors of the cheese.
- Lastly, take the time to enjoy and savor the cheese. Cheese tasting should be a leisurely and enjoyable experience.