What To Know
- While freezing cheese might seem like a drastic measure, it can actually be a great way to extend its shelf life and prevent waste.
- Having a stash of frozen cheese on hand can be a lifesaver when you need a quick ingredient for recipes or snacks.
- For a quicker thaw, you can place the frozen cheese in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water.
Can you freeze blocks of cheese? It’s a question that many cheese lovers grapple with, especially when faced with a large block of cheddar or a luxurious brie. While freezing cheese might seem like a drastic measure, it can actually be a great way to extend its shelf life and prevent waste. However, it’s important to understand the nuances of freezing different types of cheese to ensure the best possible results.
Why Freeze Cheese?
Freezing cheese offers several benefits:
- Extending Shelf Life: Freezing cheese can significantly extend its shelf life, allowing you to enjoy it for months to come. This is particularly helpful for large blocks of cheese that you might not be able to consume quickly.
- Preventing Waste: Freezing cheese prevents it from going bad before you can use it, reducing food waste.
- Convenience: Having a stash of frozen cheese on hand can be a lifesaver when you need a quick ingredient for recipes or snacks.
Which Cheeses Freeze Well?
Not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to freezing. Some types freeze better than others, while some are better left in the refrigerator. Here’s a breakdown:
Cheeses that Freeze Well:
- Hard Cheeses: Hard cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan, and pecorino romano generally freeze well. Their firm texture holds up well during the freezing process, and they retain their flavor and texture after thawing.
- Semi-Hard Cheeses: Semi-hard cheeses such as Gouda, Havarti, and Colby also freeze well. They may become slightly crumbly after thawing, but they still retain their flavor and can be used in many applications.
- Processed Cheeses: Processed cheeses, like American cheese and cheese slices, freeze exceptionally well. They maintain their texture and flavor after thawing and are ideal for sandwiches and snacks.
Cheeses that Freeze Poorly:
- Soft Cheeses: Soft cheeses like brie, camembert, and goat cheese are not ideal for freezing. Their delicate texture and high moisture content can be significantly compromised during the freezing process, resulting in a watery, crumbly texture after thawing.
- Fresh Cheeses: Fresh cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, and feta are also not recommended for freezing. They tend to lose their texture and become watery after thawing.
- Blue Cheeses: Blue cheeses, such as Roquefort and Gorgonzola, can be frozen, but their flavor and texture may be altered.
How to Freeze Cheese Properly
Freezing cheese correctly is crucial for preserving its quality and flavor. Follow these steps for optimal results:
1. Prepare the Cheese: Cut the cheese into smaller portions, making it easier to thaw and use later. You can cut it into cubes, slices, or wedges, depending on your preference.
2. Wrap the Cheese: Wrap each portion of cheese tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. You can also add an extra layer of aluminum foil for added protection.
3. Label and Date: Label each package with the type of cheese and the date it was frozen. This will help you keep track of your frozen cheese inventory.
4. Store in the Freezer: Place the wrapped cheese in a freezer-safe bag or container. Ensure the bag or container is airtight to prevent freezer burn.
5. Freeze for Up to 3 Months: Most cheeses can be frozen for up to 3 months without significant quality loss. However, for optimal flavor and texture, it’s best to use them within 2 months.
Thawing Frozen Cheese
Thawing frozen cheese properly is equally important as freezing it. Here’s how to do it:
1. Refrigerator Thawing: The best way to thaw frozen cheese is in the refrigerator. Transfer the frozen cheese from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw slowly for 12-24 hours. This method ensures that the cheese thaws evenly and maintains its texture.
2. Cold Water Thawing: For a quicker thaw, you can place the frozen cheese in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until the cheese is thawed. This method should take around 1-2 hours.
3. Do Not Microwave: Never thaw frozen cheese in the microwave. The heat will cause the cheese to become rubbery and lose its texture.
Using Frozen Cheese
Once thawed, frozen cheese can be used in various ways:
- Cooking: Frozen cheese is perfect for cooking, as it melts smoothly and blends well with other ingredients. Use it in sauces, soups, casseroles, or any dish that calls for melted cheese.
- Grating: Frozen hard and semi-hard cheeses can be grated after thawing. The frozen texture can actually make grating easier.
- Sandwiches and Snacks: Frozen processed cheese slices can be used directly in sandwiches and snacks. They thaw quickly at room temperature and retain their texture.
Tips for Freezing Cheese
- Freeze Smaller Portions: Freezing cheese in smaller portions makes it easier to thaw and use as needed.
- Avoid Freezing Aged Cheeses: Aged cheeses, such as those with a strong, pungent flavor, may lose some of their character during freezing.
- Use Frozen Cheese Within 2 Months: For optimal flavor and texture, use frozen cheese within 2 months.
- Don’t Refreeze Thawed Cheese: Once thawed, cheese should not be refrozen.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Specific Cheese Freezing Techniques
While the general guidelines for freezing cheese are helpful, specific cheeses may require slightly different approaches. Here are some tips for freezing particular types of cheese:
- Freezing Mozzarella: While fresh mozzarella doesn’t freeze well, you can freeze shredded mozzarella for use in pizza or other recipes.
- Freezing Cream Cheese: Cream cheese can be frozen, but it may become grainy after thawing. It’s best to use it in recipes where the texture isn’t crucial, such as dips or spreads.
- Freezing Feta Cheese: Feta cheese can be frozen, but it may become crumbly after thawing. Use it in dishes where the texture isn’t essential, such as salads or dips.
The Final Word: A Farewell to Food Waste
Freezing cheese can be a valuable tool for extending its shelf life, preventing waste, and ensuring you always have a convenient ingredient on hand. By understanding the nuances of freezing different types of cheese and following the proper techniques, you can enjoy your favorite cheese for months to come. So, go ahead, freeze that cheese and embrace the convenience and culinary possibilities it offers!
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I freeze cheese that has already been thawed?
A: No, it’s not recommended to refreeze thawed cheese. Refreezing can compromise the quality and texture of the cheese, making it more likely to become watery and crumbly.
Q: How long can I keep cheese in the freezer?
A: Most cheeses can be frozen for up to 3 months without significant quality loss. However, for optimal flavor and texture, it’s best to use them within 2 months.
Q: Can I freeze cheese that has mold on it?
A: No, you should not freeze cheese that has mold on it. Mold can spread rapidly, even in the freezer. It’s best to discard any cheese that shows signs of mold.
Q: What are some recipes that use frozen cheese?
A: Frozen cheese can be used in a wide variety of recipes, including:
- Mac and Cheese: Frozen cheddar or Colby cheese melts beautifully in mac and cheese.
- Lasagna: Frozen ricotta cheese can be used in lasagna.
- Pizza: Frozen mozzarella cheese is perfect for topping pizza.
- Quesadillas: Frozen cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can be used in quesadillas.
Q: Can I freeze cheese that has been grated?
A: Yes, you can freeze grated cheese. Simply wrap the grated cheese tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
