Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound smoked gouda cheese
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
- 2 bay leaves
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Cheese cloth
- Cheese mold
- Cheese press
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cut the smoked gouda cheese into small cubes and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine water, kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, and bay leaves. Stir until the salt and sugar dissolve.
3. Add the cheese cubes to the brine and let it sit at room temperature for 2 hours.
4. After 2 hours, strain the cheese cubes from the brine and wrap them in cheese cloth.
5. Place the cheese cloth-wrapped cheese cubes into a cheese mold and press them for 24 hours.
6. After 24 hours, remove the cheese from the mold and unwrap the cheese cloth.
7. Let the cheese air dry for 2-3 days until a rind forms on the outside.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Brining time: 2 hours
- Pressing time: 24 hours
- Air drying time: 2-3 days
Temperature:
- Room temperature for brining
- Room temperature for air drying
Serving size:
- 1 pound of smoked gouda brined cheese
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 110 per 1 oz serving
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any type of hard cheese can be used instead of smoked gouda.
Variations:
- Add herbs or spices to the brine for different flavor profiles.
- Use different types of cheese for different variations.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use a cheese press to ensure the cheese is evenly pressed.
- Make sure to air dry the cheese until a rind forms on the outside to prevent spoilage.
Storage Instructions:
- Store the smoked gouda brined cheese in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating Instructions:
- Serve the cheese at room temperature.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the smoked gouda brined cheese on a cheese board with crackers, fruit, and nuts.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, can be used as a garnish.
Pairings:
- Serve the smoked gouda brined cheese with a full-bodied red wine or a dark beer.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve the smoked gouda brined cheese with a crusty baguette or sliced apples.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheese is too salty, rinse it with cold water before serving.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to use clean equipment when making the cheese.
- Store the cheese in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food History:
- Brining cheese is a traditional method of preserving cheese.
Flavor Profiles:
- The smoked gouda brined cheese has a salty and slightly smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the smoked gouda brined cheese as an appetizer or on a cheese board.
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Region: Dutch