The world of cheese is a fascinating and diverse one, with each region having its own unique offerings. Lancashire, a county in the northwest of England, is no exception. Lancashire cheese is a beloved British cheese that comes in three distinct varieties – Young Creamy Lancashire, Tasty Lancashire, and Crumbly Lancashire. Each variety offers a different taste and texture, appealing to a wide range of cheese lovers.
1. Young Creamy Lancashire:
Young Creamy Lancashire is the mildest and freshest of the three varieties. It is made using traditional methods, which involve the curdling of milk using rennet and the subsequent draining and pressing of the curds. The resulting cheese is creamy and slightly crumbly in texture, with a delicate and mild flavor. It has a tangy and slightly acidic taste, reminiscent of fresh milk. The young Lancashire cheese is often enjoyed on its own or as a topping for sandwiches and salads.
2. Tasty Lancashire:
Tasty Lancashire, also made using traditional methods, is the mature version of Lancashire cheese. It undergoes a longer aging process, allowing the flavors to intensify and develop. The cheese is left to mature for several months, during which time it develops a deeper, more complex taste. Tasty Lancashire has a firmer texture compared to its younger counterpart, with a crumbly and slightly grainy consistency. The flavor profile is rich and robust, with hints of nuttiness and a tangy, slightly acidic finish. This variety of Lancashire cheese is often grated or melted into dishes, adding depth and character to recipes.
3. Crumbly Lancashire:
Crumbly Lancashire, also known as Lancashire Crumbly, is a more recent creation that was developed to meet the demand for mass production. This variety is made using a different method, which involves the addition of butterfat and the use of a different starter culture. These alterations result in a cheese that is less creamy and more crumbly in texture. Crumbly Lancashire has a slightly milder flavor compared to Tasty Lancashire, with a tangy and buttery taste. It is often used as a versatile cheese for cooking, grating, or enjoying on a cheeseboard.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting all three varieties of Lancashire cheese. Each one has its own unique characteristics that make it a delight to savor. The Young Creamy Lancashire is a perfect choice for those who prefer a milder and creamier cheese, while the Tasty Lancashire offers a more mature and complex flavor. The Crumbly Lancashire, with its crumbly texture and tangy taste, is a versatile option that can be enjoyed in various culinary preparations.
Lancashire cheese offers a delightful range of flavors and textures to suit different palates. Whether you prefer the mild and creamy Young Creamy Lancashire, the rich and robust Tasty Lancashire, or the versatile and crumbly Crumbly Lancashire, there is a variety for every cheese lover to enjoy.