Understanding the challenge with hard cheeses
Hard cheeses such as Parmesan, cheddar, and Gouda can be a challenge to cut without crumbling them. This is because these cheeses have a more crumbly texture, and the wrong approach can leave you with a pile of cheese bits instead of a neat slice or cracker piece. But fear not; with some simple tips and tricks, you can easily master the art of cutting hard cheeses.
The right tools for the job
To cut hard cheeses without crumbling, you need the right tools. A sturdy cheese knife with a sharp blade is essential, as it allows you to apply enough pressure to carve through the cheese without destroying it. You may also want to invest in a cheese wire or cheese plane, especially if you frequently work with harder cheeses.
Techniques for success
Now that you have the right tools, it’s time to master the right techniques. When cutting hard cheeses, it’s best to work with the grain of the cheese. This means examining the cheese closely to see how the curds have formed and cutting parallel to those lines. You should also avoid pressing down too hard on the cheese, as this can cause it to crumble.
Storing hard cheeses
In addition to cutting techniques, proper storage can also have a significant impact on the crumbliness of your hard cheeses. When you store your cheese, make sure that it is wrapped tightly in wax paper or parchment paper, rather than plastic wrap. This allows the cheese to breathe and prevents moisture buildup, which can cause the cheese to break apart.
Preventing crumbling
If you’re still struggling with crumbly hard cheeses, there are a few additional tricks you can try. For example, soaking the cheese in cold water for a few minutes before cutting can help to soften it slightly and make it easier to work with. You can also try warming the cheese slightly in the microwave, which can help to soften it while also making it more fragrant.
