Milk

CHEESE

Whether it’s a slice of cheddar or a dollop of ricotta, see how Ontario cheese can make any meal even better.

TYPES OF CHEESES

HOW IS CHEESE MADE?

Since there are many kinds of delicious cheese, this process might vary, but they usually start with these simple steps.

Curdling the milk

...In a good way. Milk is poured into vats where “starter culture” bacteria is added to turn lactose into lactic acid. An enzyme called “rennet” is also added to start curdling the milk (turning it from a liquid to a solid).

Removing whey, adding salt

Once the curds are formed, whey protein is left behind in a liquid form that is removed from the curds. Once the whey is drained and removed a few times, salt is mixed in for flavour.

Pressed and aged

Then, the curds are pressed into molds (usually blocks) and aged in a temperature and humidity-controlled environment for months at a time.

HOW TO KEEP CHEESE FRESH

When it comes to storing cheeses, store them in the crisper in your fridge to preserve their freshness.

Fresh or soft cheese

Fresh cheeses are usually stored in water - it’s best to keep them in their original containers and change out the water every couple of days. For soft cheeses, such as brie or camembert, store in a resealable container.

Semi-soft, firm or hard cheese

For cheeses such as cheddar, for example, after you remove them from their packaging, wrapping them in wax or parchment paper will suffice. For hard cheeses, such as parmesan, wrapping them in wax or parchment paper and then a layer of aluminum foil will ensure it doesn’t dry out. Also, make sure it still has room to breathe!

Can you freeze cheese?

Thinking about freezing your cheese to make it last longer? It’s possible if done correctly. Unlike storing cheese in the fridge using parchment paper and letting it breathe, you’ll want to use plastic wrap and something that seals when storing in the freezer (you want to prevent any ice crystals forming). Depending on the cheese, it should be good for at least two months in the freezer.

LEARN MORE ABOUT FREEZING DAIRY

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THE ART OF PAIRING CHEESE

Tips for a Charcuterie board

All about variety
On your board, try to include a range of soft to hard cheese, and mild to strong flavoured cheese.

Flavours
Add contrasting flavours like adding a fig jam to pair with brie cheese, or pickles to pair with a sharp cheddar. You can’t go wrong with a board full of yummy cheeses, so have fun with it!

A quick guide to cheese and wine

Intensity
Usually, intense wines paired with equally intense cheeses work well. Try Pinot Noir with a cheese such as gruyère.

Red or White?
Red wines tend to pair well with aged cheeses, such as parmesan, while white sparkling wines pair well with soft, bloomy rind cheeses like brie.

Keep it simple
A good rule to follow is to simply pair wines and cheeses from the same region!

How to cook with different cheeses

The best grilled cheese
If you’re looking for a good cheese-pull, the meltiest ones are semi-soft ones, such as fontina or asiago.

The best cheese for salads
Fresh cheeses are, with no surprise, best for topping salads. Mozzarella or bocconcini is a great addition.

The best cheese for sweets
Lighter, creamier cheeses, such as ricotta, mascarpone or cream cheese can be sweetened to make classic desserts.  

READ MORE ON SAVOUR ONTARIO

OUR FAVOURITE RECIPES WITH CHEESE

Dark Chocolate Chili Cream Tart

See full recipe

Double Cheese Arancini

See full recipe

Looking to whip up something delicious with dairy?

Browse all our quick and easy recipes.

EXPLORE MORE DAIRY GOODNESS

Milk

This nutritious and delicious grocery list mainstay is more than just a thirst quencher.

Yogurt

Another versatile dairy product that can be enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in everyday recipes.

Cream

A key ingredient in your coffee and your everyday cooking. Explore all cream has to offer.

Butter

A must-have on every shopping list. See all the ways you can use and enjoy Ontario-made butter.

Ice Cream

Made with real Ontario dairy, ice cream is a dessert enjoyed with friends and family, all year round.

EXPLORE MORE DAIRY GOODNESS

Milk

This nutritious and delicious grocery list mainstay is more than just a thirst quencher.

Yogurt

Another versatile dairy product that can be enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in everyday recipes.

Cream

A key ingredient in your coffee and your everyday cooking. Explore all cream has to offer.

Butter

A must-have on every shopping list. See all the ways you can use and enjoy Ontario-made butter.

Ice Cream

Made with real Ontario dairy, ice cream is a dessert enjoyed with friends and family, all year round.

EXPLORE MORE DAIRY GOODNESS

Milk

This nutritious and delicious grocery list mainstay is more than just a thirst quencher.

Yogurt

Another versatile dairy product that can be enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in everyday recipes.

Cream

A key ingredient in your coffee and your everyday cooking. Explore all cream has to offer.

Butter

A must-have on every shopping list. See all the ways you can use and enjoy Ontario-made butter.

Ice Cream

Made with real Ontario dairy, ice cream is a dessert enjoyed with friends and family, all year round.