Canadian cheese

Canadian cheese refers to the diverse variety of cheeses produced in Canada. From the early 17th century, cheese has been made in Canada, with the first known small-scale cheese factories established in the 1860s. Today, Canada is renowned for its high-quality cheese production, with over 1,050 varieties of cheeses under a wide range of flavours, textures and forms.

History

The history of Canadian cheese dates back to the early 17th century when the first settlers from France brought with them the knowledge of cheese making. The first commercial cheese factory was established in 1864 in Oxford County, Ontario. The industry grew rapidly, and by the end of the 19th century, there were over 200 cheese factories in Ontario alone.

Types of Canadian Cheese

Canadian cheese can be categorized into several types, including Cheddar, Mozzarella, Feta, Blue, Gouda, and Swiss. Each type of cheese has its unique characteristics and uses in culinary applications.

Cheddar

Canadian Cheddar cheese is the second most popular cheese in the country. It is known for its firm texture and sharp, tangy flavour. It is often used in cooking, especially in dishes like macaroni and cheese, cheeseburgers, and cheese soups.

Mozzarella

Canadian Mozzarella is a semi-soft cheese known for its mild flavour and stretchy texture. It is commonly used in pizza and pasta dishes.

Blue

Canadian Blue cheese is characterized by its strong flavour and blue or blue-green mould. It is often crumbled over salads or melted into sauces.

Production

The production of Canadian cheese involves a series of processes, including pasteurization, curdling, draining, salting, and aging. The quality of Canadian cheese is regulated by the Canadian Dairy Commission, which sets standards for milk production and cheese manufacturing.

Canadian Cheese in Cuisine

Canadian cheese is a staple in many traditional Canadian dishes, such as Poutine, a dish made with fries, cheese curds, and gravy. It is also used in various other dishes, including sandwiches, pizzas, and salads.

See Also

• List of Canadian cheeses
• Canadian cuisine
• Dairy farming in Canada