Welcome to our first post on Cheese Expertise, where we introduce cheeses around the world and how to use them. First up is Britain and the United Kingdom. Britain is known for its cheese, and it is estimated there are over 500 kinds of cheese produced around the country. The most popular cheeses are easily found at supermarkets but you might not know what to expect when you buy them. We have for you a list explaining the major characteristics of the 10 most popular British cheeses.
Cheddar: Cheddar cheese is perhaps the most famous British cheese. It originates from Cheddar, Somerset in south west England. It has no designated protection so can be produced anywhere and called cheddar. It comes in various varieties, from mild to extra sharp, and is known for its creamy texture and savoury flavour.
Stilton: Stilton originates from Stilton, Cambridgeshire and comes in two varieties, blue and white. Blue is the more popular version. Stilton is a strong cheese with a crumbly texture. It has a distinctive flavour profile and is often enjoyed with crackers or in salads.
Red Leicester: Red Leicester is a bright orange cheese with a mild, slightly sweet flavour. It’s a popular choice for sandwiches and melts well. It is similar to cheddar, and used to be made from leftover milk from stilton production
Double Gloucester: This cheese comes in both red and white varieties. It has a smooth texture and a mild, buttery taste. It has a natural hard rind, the single gloucester variety is only produced by 6 farms within Gloucestershire
Wensleydale: Wensleydale is a crumbly cheese with a slightly honey flavour. It can be enjoyed plain or with fruit like cranberries or apricots. In Yorkshire it is often eaten with Christmas cake.
Caerphilly: Caerphilly cheese is a crumbly white cheese with a mild, fresh flavour originating from Wales. It’s often used in sandwiches and salads, and is best eaten at room temperature
Lancashire: Lancashire cheese comes in three main varieties: Creamy, Crumbly, and Tasty. It has a range of flavours from mild to strong, depending on the type.
Cheshire: Cheshire cheese has a crumbly texture and a tangy, slightly salty taste. It’s often used in cooking and as a snack. Pairs well with sweeter flavours
Shropshire Blue: This blue cheese is similar to Stilton but has an orange hue due to the addition of annatto. It has a creamy texture and a strong flavour.
Cornish Yarg: Cornish Yarg is a unique cheese wrapped in nettles or wild garlic leaves. It has a creamy, slightly tangy taste and a distinctive appearance.
Whatever you prefer in cheese from mild to strong and punchy, theres a british cheese to suit you. Hopefully this list gives you a starting point to explore the cheeses of Britain and keep your eyes peeled for more in the cheese expert series!