The Art of Cheddar: Pineland Farms’ Tradition and Excellence
Introduction
The Art of Cheddar: Pineland Farms’ Tradition and Excellence. Welcome to the world of Pineland Farms’ White Cheddar Cheese, where tradition meets innovation to create a product that is as rich in history as it is in flavor. Our white cheddar, crafted with care and precision, embodies the essence of what makes cheese from Maine truly special. Whether you’re a cheese aficionado, a supporter of local agriculture, or simply a food lover, our white cheddar is sure to delight your palate.
What is White Cheddar?
White is the natural color of cheddar, its yellow counterpart uses annatto as a natural coloring agent. While it may be pale, our cheddar presents a bold flavor and creamy texture. Pineland Farms Dairy Company’s cheddar is made using traditional methods to ensure a bold flavor and creamy texture, making it a favorite among kids and grownups alike.
Our Passionate Cheese Makers
At Pineland Farms, our cheese makers are passionate about their craft. Each batch of cheddar is made with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every piece reflects our commitment to quality. Our team continually perfects each recipe, striving to create cheese that not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Cheddar is one of our favorites, and we believe it’s a must-try for any cheese lover.
The Process of Making the Best Cheddar Cheese
Crafting our exceptional cheddar begins with sourcing the finest milk from local Maine dairy farms. This milk is free from antibiotics and artificial growth hormones, ensuring a pure and wholesome base for our cheese. The milk is then cultured, and the curds are carefully cut, cooked, and pressed. Aging is a critical step where the cheese develops its rich flavor and creamy texture. Our traditional methods, combined with modern sustainable practices, result in a white cheddar that is truly exceptional.
The Aging Process and Award-Winning Cheddars
Our cheddar serves as the starting point for some of our award-winning aged cheddars. As cheddar ages, its flavors become more complex and pronounced. Over time, the cheese develops a firmer texture and can form delightful crystals that add a crunchy contrast. Our 2-Year Reserve Cheddar, which starts as our white cheddar, won 3rd place (bronze) at the 2023 Big E Cheese Competition. Additionally, our Cheddar aged 3+ years won silver at the World Cheese Awards in 2023-2024.
When young, cheddar is delicious on its own due to its creamy texture and mild flavor. As it ages, the cheese undergoes a transformation, developing sharper, more robust flavors. The aging process allows for the breakdown of proteins, leading to a more complex taste profile. These aged cheddars are perfect for those who appreciate a deeper, more intense cheese experience.
The History of Cheddar
Cheddar cheese originated in the English village of Cheddar in Somerset during the 12th century. The cheese developed so well there because of the natural caves or Cheddar Gorge where cheese was stored and cared for – before refrigerators. The unique humidity and temperature conditions in these natural caves created the perfect environment for aging, enhancing the flavor and texture of the cheese. Over the centuries, this beloved cheese has traveled across the globe, becoming a staple in various cuisines. Pineland Farms’ cheddar honors this rich heritage while adding a touch of Maine’s dairy farming excellence. Our cheese-making techniques are steeped in tradition, ensuring each bite of our white cheddar is a nod to the past with an eye towards the future.
Food Pairings and Uses
Cheddar Blocks
Our 7 oz cheddar blocks are perfect for:
- Snacking: Enjoy straight from the block for a quick and delicious snack.
- Cheese Boards: Pair with fruits like apples, pears, and grapes, nuts like almonds and walnuts, and charcuterie such as salami, prosciutto, and smoked ham.
- Cooking: Shred and melt over baked potato, casseroles, soups, and pasta dishes for a creamy, cheesy finish.
Cheddar Slices
Sliced cheddar (found freshly sliced in the Market’s deli department) is ideal for:
- Sandwiches and Burgers: Add a slice to your favorite sandwich or burger for a creamy, flavorful addition.
- Grilled Cheese: Make the ultimate grilled cheese sandwich with our perfectly melting white cheddar slices.
- Wraps and Paninis: Enhance wraps and paninis with the rich, buttery taste of white cheddar.
Featured Cheeses in August: Cheddar Blocks and Slices
This August, we’re excited to feature our 7 oz cheddar blocks and sliced cheddar at special prices. Our 7 oz blocks are perfect for snacking, cooking, or adding to a cheese board, available at $4.49 (regularly $5.69) each or 2 for $8.00. For those who prefer the convenience of pre-sliced cheese, our sliced cheddar is ideal for sandwiches, burgers, and more, priced at $7.49 per pound (normally $9.49/lb). Join us for two FREE Cheese Tastings at the Market. August 9, 2024 and August 29, 2024 from 12pm-2pm.
A Recipe Featuring Cheddar
Fettuccine with Broccoli, Canadian Bacon, and Cheddar Cheese Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fettuccine
- 4 cups shredded Pineland Farms White Cheddar Cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked canadian bacon, diced
Instructions:
- Cook the Fettuccine and Broccoli:
- Cook the fettuccine according to package directions. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheddar Cheese Sauce:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a paste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Add the shredded white cheddar cheese to the pot, stirring until completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Combine and Serve:
- Stir in the cooked fettuccine, broccoli, and diced ham until fully coated with the cheese sauce.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
This recipe keeps the focus on the cheddar cheese while incorporating the richness of an Alfredo sauce, complemented by the flavors of broccoli and ham.
Conclusion
Pineland Farms’ Cheddar Cheese is more than just a product; it’s a testament to our commitment to quality, tradition, and sustainability. From our meticulous cheese-making process to the rich history of cheddar, we invite you to experience the unique flavors and textures of our white cheddar. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own, as part of a cheese board, or in a delicious recipe, Pineland Farms’ Cheddar is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Our dedication to preserving traditional cheese-making techniques while embracing sustainable practices ensures that every bite of our cheddar reflects the rich dairy heritage of Maine. By choosing Pineland Farms, you’re not only indulging in a superior product but also supporting local farmers and contributing to the sustainability of the dairy industry.
Visit Us
We welcome you to visit Pineland Farms to see our farm firsthand. Our farm offers educational and recreational activities for all ages, providing a unique opportunity to connect with the land and the people at Pineland Farms. Discover the joys of farm-to-table practices and taste the difference that quality, and local ingredients make. Our flagship Market offers all of our Pineland Farms cheeses and meats.
Where to Buy
If you’re not located near New Gloucester or the Monson General Store in Maine, you can find Pineland Farms Cheddar Cheese at select retailers and specialty shops across New England. For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, our products are also available for purchase on our website. Check out the Pineland Farms Dairy Company store locator to find a retailer near you or visit our online store to have our delicious cheese ready for local pickup. Shipping is also available but keep in mind that our shipping costs can be high due to the large boxes and freezer packs needed to keep our cheese cool and at its best call our Market to place an order for shipping at 207.688.4539.
Join Our Community
Stay connected with Pineland Farms through our social media channels. Follow us for the latest news, exclusive offers, and mouth-watering recipes featuring our white cheddar and other dairy products. Share your culinary creations with us using #PinelandFarmsCheese, and become part of our growing community of cheese lovers and local agriculture supporters.
Thank you for choosing Pineland Farms. We look forward to bringing the rich, creamy flavors of our cheddar cheese to your table!