If you're a cheese lover who enjoys bold and sharp flavors, 1 oz (28 g) extra sharp cheddar might just be the perfect snack for you. This flavorful cheese packs a punch in every bite and is perfect for adding depth to dishes or enjoying on its own. At 120 calories per serving, it's easy to enjoy without worrying about your waistline.
Aside from its delicious taste, extra sharp cheddar is also a good source of calcium and protein. In fact, a 1 oz serving contains 7 grams of protein and 20% of your recommended daily intake of calcium. It also has a moderate amount of fat and sodium, so it's important to enjoy in moderation.
In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about extra sharp cheddar, from its nutritional value to its history and recipe ideas.
Extra sharp cheddar is a type of cheddar cheese that has been aged for at least 1 year, resulting in a strong and intense flavor. The longer aging process allows the cheese to develop flavor and a crumbly texture, making it perfect for cooking, snacking, or serving on a cheese board. The production of cheddar cheese dates back to the 12th century in England, although it was first made in the village of Cheddar in Somerset. Today, cheddar cheese is produced and enjoyed all over the world.
As mentioned earlier, extra sharp cheddar is a good source of calcium and protein. A 1 oz serving contains 120 calories, 9 grams of fat, 7 grams of protein, and 20% of your daily recommended intake of calcium. It also contains 180 mg of sodium, which is around 8% of your daily limit. While extra sharp cheddar is not the healthiest cheese option due to its high saturated fat content, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
There are many ways to enjoy extra sharp cheddar, from snacking to cooking. Here are a few ideas: - Serve on a cheese board with crackers and fruit for a delicious appetizer
- Use in grilled cheese sandwiches or quesadillas
- Sprinkle on top of soups or baked potatoes
- Add to mac and cheese for an extra kick of flavor
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine for the ultimate snack experience. The possibilities are endless!
Extra sharp cheddar pairs well with a variety of foods and flavors. Here are a few ideas for pairing with other foods: - Apples or pears
- Red wine
- Dark chocolate
- Grilled meat or vegetables
- Wheat thins or other hearty crackers The key to pairing is to find complementary flavors that balance the sharpness of the cheese.
While extra sharp cheddar is not the healthiest cheese option due to its high saturated fat content, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet. The key is to balance it with other healthy foods and exercise portion control. Additionally, cheese in general is a good source of calcium and protein, which are important nutrients for overall health. Studies have also shown that eating cheese in moderation may not increase the risk of cardiovascular disease or stroke, although more research is needed in this area.
As mentioned earlier, cheddar cheese has a long and rich history dating back to 12th century England. The production of cheddar cheese was originally limited to the village of Cheddar in Somerset, but eventually spread throughout England and beyond. Today, cheddar cheese is produced and enjoyed all over the world, with many different variations depending on the region and production methods.
The main difference between extra sharp cheddar and regular cheddar is the length of aging. Regular cheddar is usually aged for 3-6 months, while extra sharp cheddar is aged for at least 1 year. This longer aging process allows the cheese to develop a sharper and more intense flavor, as well as a crumbly texture. Extra sharp cheddar is also usually more expensive than regular cheddar due to the longer aging process.
Extra sharp cheddar should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. It should be consumed within 5-7 days of opening to ensure its freshness and flavor. If the cheese develops mold or a strong odor, it should be discarded.
Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese Brands
There are many different brands of extra sharp cheddar cheese available, both in stores and online. Some popular brands include Cabot, Tillamook, and Cracker Barrel. When choosing a brand, it's important to read the label and look for high-quality ingredients and no added preservatives or artificial flavors.
Extra sharp cheddar is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different recipes. Here are a few ideas to get you started: - Extra sharp cheddar and broccoli soup
- Extra sharp cheddar and bacon quiche
- Extra sharp cheddar and apple grilled cheese sandwich
- Extra sharp cheddar and herb biscuits
- Extra sharp cheddar and caramelized onion tart These recipes are sure to please any cheese lover!
Good cheese is not necessarily expensive, but bad cheese always is.
5 FAQ About Extra Sharp Cheddar
1. How many calories are in 1 oz of extra sharp cheddar?
One ounce of extra sharp cheddar cheese contains about 120 calories.
2. What makes cheddar cheese "extra sharp"?
Extra sharp cheddar cheese is aged longer than other cheddar cheeses, which gives it a sharper and more pronounced flavor.
3. Is extra sharp cheddar cheese high in fat?
Yes, like all cheese, extra sharp cheddar cheese is high in fat. One ounce of this cheese contains approximately 10 grams of fat.
4. Can extra sharp cheddar cheese be part of a healthy diet?
While cheese should be consumed in moderation, extra sharp cheddar can be part of a balanced diet as it is a good source of protein, calcium, and other nutrients.
5. How can extra sharp cheddar cheese be used in cooking?
Extra sharp cheddar cheese can be used in a variety of dishes, such as grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and cheese dips. It can also be shredded and used as a topping for salads or baked potatoes.