Nøkkelost

Nøkkelost is a traditional Norwegian cheese that is produced using cow's milk. It is a semi-hard cheese, known for its distinctive flavor profile that includes cumin, caraway seeds, and cloves. The cheese is often used in a variety of culinary applications, including as a topping for bread, in salads, and in cooking.

History

The history of Nøkkelost dates back to the 19th century in Norway. It was traditionally made on farms during the winter months when milk production was at its peak. The cheese was then aged and ready for consumption in the spring. The name "Nøkkelost" translates to "key cheese" in English, a reference to the key-shaped pattern that was traditionally imprinted on the cheese during production.

Production

Nøkkelost is made by adding cumin, caraway seeds, and cloves to pasteurized cow's milk. The milk is then heated and rennet is added to coagulate the milk. The curds are cut, stirred, and heated before being placed in a cheese mold. The cheese is then pressed to remove whey and to form the cheese. The cheese is then aged for a minimum of three months.

Flavor and Uses

Nøkkelost has a creamy texture and a rich, spicy flavor due to the addition of cumin, caraway seeds, and cloves. The cheese has a slightly sweet taste with a hint of nuttiness. It is often served sliced on bread or crackers, and can also be used in cooking, particularly in dishes that require a cheese with a strong flavor.

Availability

While Nøkkelost is a traditional Norwegian cheese, it is not widely available outside of Norway. However, it can be found in some specialty cheese shops and online retailers that specialize in international cheeses.

See Also

• List of Norwegian cheeses
• Norwegian cuisine