If you're a fan of cheese, then you must try the classic Limburger Cheese. One 8 Oz package of this soft and pungent cheese packs a punch with 742 calories. But fear not, for indulging occasionally has its perks.

Limburger Cheese is made from cow's milk and aged for three months. It has a pale yellow interior and a reddish-orange rind. The smell can be quite strong, but the flavor is creamy and earthy.

In this article, we'll delve into the history, nutrition, health benefits, recipes, serving suggestions, and myths behind Limburger Cheese.

History of Limburger Cheese

Limburger Cheese has been around since the early 19th century in Belgium. By the late 1800s, it became popular in Germany and eventually spread to other European countries and the US. In 1910, a Limburger Cheese factory was established in Monroe, Wisconsin, which became the largest Limburger Cheese producer in the US. Today, Limburger Cheese can be found in specialty cheese stores and supermarkets throughout the world. The cheese has a strong cultural significance, with festivals and events dedicated to it in the US and Europe.

How Limburger Cheese is Made

Limburger Cheese is made from cow's milk, rennet, and bacterial cultures. The milk is heated and the rennet is added to coagulate the milk into curds. After draining off the whey, the curds are salted and placed in molds to shape the cheese. The cheese is left to ripen for three months in a humid environment, during which it is washed and turned regularly. The washing process gives the cheese its characteristic odor and taste. The longer Limburger Cheese is aged, the stronger and more pungent it becomes.

Nutritional Value of Limburger Cheese

One 8 Oz package of Limburger Cheese contains 62g of fat, 36g of protein, and 2.2g of carbohydrates. Limburger Cheese is high in calories and saturated fat, but also contains essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamin B12. It's best to consume Limburger Cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Health Benefits of Limburger Cheese

Despite its reputation as an unhealthy food, Limburger Cheese has some surprising health benefits. Studies have shown that consuming cheese in moderation can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. Cheese is also a good source of probiotics, which can improve gut health and boost the immune system. However, it's important to choose high-quality cheese and consume it in moderation to reap the benefits.

Different Ways to Eat Limburger Cheese

Limburger Cheese is a versatile cheese that pairs well with a variety of foods. It's great on a sandwich with lettuce and tomato or served with crackers and fruit. For a classic German dish, try it with rye bread and sliced onions. It can also be used in dips or melted on a pizza. Experiment with different serving options to find your favorite way to enjoy Limburger Cheese.

Recipes using Limburger Cheese

If you're looking for creative ways to use Limburger Cheese, try these recipes: - Limburger and Grilled Pear Sandwich: Spread Limburger Cheese on toasted bread and add sliced grilled pears and arugula. - Limburger Cheese Dip: Mix softened Limburger Cheese with cream cheese, garlic, and herbs for a savory dip to serve with crackers or bread.

How to Store Limburger Cheese

Limburger Cheese should be stored in the refrigerator in its original packaging or wrapped in waxed paper or foil. It's best to keep it away from other foods to prevent the odor from spreading. Bring the cheese to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor. Once opened, Limburger Cheese should be consumed within a week.

Pairing Limburger Cheese with Wine

Limburger Cheese pairs best with wines that can handle its strong flavor and aroma. Try a full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel, or a dry white wine like Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc. Beer is also a popular pairing for Limburger Cheese, especially Belgian style beers. Experiment with different wine and beer pairings to find the perfect match for your taste.

Limburger Cheese Myths Debunked

There are many myths surrounding Limburger Cheese that have been debunked over time. Contrary to popular belief, Limburger Cheese is not illegal in the US, it's just hard to find in some areas. Also, the smell of Limburger Cheese does not come from bacteria found only in dirty socks. In fact, the odor comes from specific bacteria used in the manufacturing process and is a sign of a properly made Limburger Cheese.

Famous Fans of Limburger Cheese

Limburger Cheese has been enjoyed by many famous people throughout history. Mark Twain was a fan and even wrote in his autobiography about eating Limburger Cheese with onions and crackers. President Franklin D. Roosevelt served Limburger Cheese sandwiches to Winston Churchill during a meeting in the White House in 1942. Today, Limburger Cheese continues to have a loyal following of cheese lovers around the world.