Beenleigh Blue cheese

Beenleigh Blue cheese is a type of blue cheese produced in the United Kingdom. It is named after the town of Beenleigh, where it was first made. The cheese is known for its rich, creamy texture and distinctive blue veining.

History

Beenleigh Blue cheese was first produced in the late 20th century by the cheese makers at the Beenleigh Dairy. The dairy, located in the town of Beenleigh, has a long history of cheese production, dating back to the 19th century. The creation of Beenleigh Blue was inspired by the traditional blue cheeses of France and Italy, but with a unique British twist.

Production

The production of Beenleigh Blue cheese involves a complex process that takes several months to complete. The cheese is made from sheep's milk, which is first pasteurized and then inoculated with Penicillium roqueforti, the mold that gives blue cheese its characteristic color and flavor. The curd is then cut, drained, and molded into wheels, which are aged for a minimum of three months. During the aging process, the cheese is regularly turned and pierced with needles to encourage the growth of the blue mold.

Characteristics

Beenleigh Blue cheese is known for its creamy, crumbly texture and strong, tangy flavor. The cheese has a natural rind and a pale yellow interior with distinctive blue veining. It is often described as having a sweet, slightly fruity taste with a hint of spice. Beenleigh Blue is typically enjoyed on its own or paired with fruits, nuts, and a glass of port or dessert wine.

See also

• List of British cheeses
• Blue cheese
• Cheese making