If you're a fan of strong-smelling cheese, you may have heard of Limburger cheese. Made from cow's milk and aged for about three months, Limburger is a soft cheese with a pungent odor that some people find off-putting. While a small amount of Limburger can add a flavorful kick to sandwiches or cheese boards, many people might wonder about the nutritional value and calorie content of this cheese. One cubic inch of Limburger cheese has approximately 59 calories.

Limburger cheese is a decent source of calcium, vitamin A, and protein. However, it is also relatively high in saturated fat and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation. One benefit of Limburger is that it is naturally low in lactose, which may make it easier for those with lactose intolerance to digest.

In this article, we'll provide an overview of Limburger cheese, its nutritional value, its history, and tips for serving and pairing it with wine. Whether you're a die-hard Limburger fan or simply curious about this cheese, read on to learn more!

What is 1 Cubic Inch Limburger Cheese?

As the name suggests, one cubic inch of Limburger cheese is a small cube-shaped serving of this cheese. Limburger is known for its powerful smell and tangy flavor, which are the result of bacterial cultures used in the cheese-making process. While Limburger cheese originated in Belgium, it is now produced in various parts of the world, including the United States and Germany. Limburger cheese has a soft, creamy texture and a pale yellow interior. The rind of the cheese is reddish-orange and may be edible or removed before consumption.

The Nutritional Value of Limburger Cheese

Limburger cheese contains several key nutrients, including calcium, vitamin A, and protein. One cubic inch of Limburger cheese provides approximately 20% of the recommended daily value of calcium for adults. However, Limburger cheese is also relatively high in saturated fat and sodium, which can increase the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. One cubic inch of Limburger cheese contains approximately 59 calories, 4.9 grams of fat, 3.1 grams of protein, and 113 milligrams of sodium. While Limburger cheese can be part of a healthy diet in moderation, it is important to be mindful of portion sizes to avoid consuming excessive amounts of saturated fat and sodium.

How Many Calories are in a Cubic Inch of Limburger Cheese?

One cubic inch of Limburger cheese contains approximately 59 calories. While this may not seem like a lot, it is important to remember that cheese is a calorie-dense food, meaning it contains a relatively high number of calories for a small serving size. If you are watching your calorie intake, it may be helpful to measure out your servings of Limburger cheese or opt for lighter cheese options such as feta or mozzarella.

Is Limburger Cheese Healthy?

While Limburger cheese does contain several key nutrients, including calcium and protein, it is also high in saturated fat and sodium. Consuming too much saturated fat and sodium can increase the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. As with all foods, moderation is key when it comes to consuming Limburger cheese. It can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet in small amounts, but should not be a regular staple in one's diet.

The History of Limburger Cheese

Limburger cheese has a long and rich history. It is believed to have been created by Trappist monks in the early 19th century in the Herve region of Belgium. The cheese quickly gained popularity throughout Europe, and by the late 1800s, it was being made in Wisconsin by German immigrants. In the United States, Limburger cheese became popular in the early 1900s, with Wisconsin becoming the center of Limburger production. Today, Limburger cheese is produced in various parts of the world, including Germany, France, and the United States.

How to Serve Limburger Cheese?

Limburger cheese can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. One popular way to eat Limburger is to spread it on bread or crackers. Some people also enjoy pairing Limburger with smoked meats or sausage. To fully appreciate the flavor of Limburger cheese, it should be served at room temperature. If the odor of the cheese is too strong for your liking, you can try removing the rind before consuming it.

A Guide to Pairing Limburger Cheese with Wine

Pairing wine with Limburger cheese can be a bit challenging due to its strong flavor and pungent odor. However, there are some wine varietals that pair well with Limburger. White wines such as Riesling or Gewürztraminer can help balance out the sharpness of the cheese. Red wines such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais can also be a good match for Limburger, especially if the cheese is paired with rich or smoky meats. When pairing Limburger cheese with wine, it is important to choose a wine with enough body and acidity to complement the cheese without overpowering it.

The Smell of Limburger Cheese Explained

The strong smell of Limburger cheese is due to the bacteria used in the cheese-making process. Limburger is made using the same type of bacteria found on human skin, which produces a characteristic odor when allowed to grow on the surface of the cheese. While some people may find the smell of Limburger off-putting, others enjoy the tangy, pungent notes that it adds to dishes. In any case, it is important to remember that the smell of Limburger is not an indicator of its freshness or safety to consume.

Is Limburger Cheese for Everyone?

While Limburger cheese can be a delicious addition to sandwiches or cheese boards, it is not for everyone. Some people may find the smell and taste of Limburger too strong or overpowering, while others may simply not enjoy the texture of soft cheeses. Additionally, those with lactose intolerance may want to avoid Limburger cheese or consume it in small amounts, as it does contain some lactose.

Where to Buy Limburger Cheese?

Limburger cheese can be found at many specialty cheese shops or online retailers. In the United States, Wisconsin is a major producer of Limburger cheese and is likely to have the largest selection of brands and varieties. Before purchasing Limburger cheese, be sure to check the expiration date and purchase only from reputable sources. It is also a good idea to smell the cheese before purchasing to ensure that the odor is to your liking.