In this article
Distinctive Features of Shropshire Blue
Shropshire Blue cheese typically forms cylindrical wheels weighing about 8 kilograms. Its paste displays a deep orange hue derived from annatto, a natural coloring agent. The texture is firm yet creamy, with well-distributed blue-green veins from Penicillium roqueforti mold.
The cheese has a moisture content of approximately 50 percent, giving it a moist and slightly crumbly consistency. Its natural rind is often cloth-bound, contributing to a rustic appearance. Shropshire Blue offers a rich, buttery flavor with a sharp, tangy finish and a lingering savory aftertaste.
Shropshire Blue Cheese Varieties
Shropshire Blue does not have formally recognized varieties, but slight variations exist between producers. Some dairies produce a younger version aged for 8 weeks, which is milder and creamier. Others extend aging to 12 weeks for a sharper, more crumbly texture.
Artisanal makers might experiment with different milk fat levels or aging conditions. However, the core characteristics of orange color and blue veining remain consistent. These subtle differences allow cheese lovers to explore nuanced flavor profiles within the Shropshire Blue family.
History and Traditions of Shropshire Blue
Shropshire Blue was developed in the 1970s in England, though it is not originally from Shropshire. It was created as a variation of Stilton, incorporating annatto for color. The cheese quickly gained popularity for its visual appeal and balanced flavor.
The United Kingdom has a rich dairy heritage, with regions famous for cheeses like Cheddar and Wensleydale. Shropshire Blue is often featured in Christmas celebrations and festive cheese boards. It symbolizes innovation within traditional British cheesemaking, blending old techniques with new ideas.
Production Process and Producers of Shropshire Blue
Shropshire Blue is made from pasteurized cow’s milk sourced from British farms. The milk is warmed and mixed with starter cultures and rennet to form curds. Annatto is added during this stage to achieve the signature orange color.
The curds are cut, drained, and placed into cylindrical molds for pressing. Needles pierce the cheese to introduce air, allowing blue mold to develop. It ages for 8 to 12 weeks in humid, temperature-controlled cellars.
Main producers of Shropshire Blue in the United Kingdom include Colston Bassett Dairy, Long Clawson Dairy, and Cropwell Bishop Creamery. These producers uphold traditional methods while ensuring consistent quality and flavor.
Quality Labels and Certifications for Shropshire Blue
As to our current knowledge, Shropshire Blue does not hold a Protected Designation of Origin status. However, it often complies with UK food safety standards and may carry the Red Tractor assurance label. This label indicates responsible farming and production practices.
Some producers might also participate in organic certification schemes, though this is not universal. These certifications help ensure animal welfare and environmental sustainability. Consumers can look for these marks to gauge quality and ethical standards.
Wine or Beverage Pairings with Shropshire Blue
Shropshire Blue pairs beautifully with sweet fortified wines like Port from Portugal. The wine’s richness complements the cheese’s creamy texture and sharp notes. English dessert wines, such as late-harvest varieties, also enhance its flavor profile.
For beer enthusiasts, robust British ales or stouts make excellent matches. The maltiness balances the saltiness and blue mold intensity. International options include Sauternes or other sweet white wines, which contrast nicely with the cheese’s tang.
Suitable Fruit and Vegetables for Shropshire Blue
Shropshire Blue pairs well with sweet fruits like ripe pears and figs. The fruit’s natural sugars soften the cheese’s sharpness and add freshness. Apples and grapes also provide a crisp contrast to its creamy texture.
Vegetables such as celery sticks or endive leaves work as edible vessels for cheese spreads. Roasted root vegetables like beetroot bring out earthy notes in Shropshire Blue. These combinations create balanced and visually appealing dishes.
Suitable Meat and Fish Dishes with Shropshire Blue
Shropshire Blue enhances meat dishes like beef steaks or burgers. Its creamy melt adds depth to sauces and gravies. The cheese also crumbles well over roasted lamb or game meats.
For fish, it can be used in modest amounts with robust varieties like salmon. Shropshire Blue works in stuffings or toppings for baked fish. Avoid pairing it with delicate white fish to prevent overpowering the flavor.
Presentation of Shropshire Blue
Serve Shropshire Blue at room temperature, about 18 to 20 degrees Celsius. Remove it from the refrigerator one hour before serving to allow flavors to develop. Use a wooden or slate cheese board for an attractive presentation.
Arrange the cheese in wedges or chunks alongside accompaniments like crackers and fruit. Provide a cheese knife for cutting and spreading. Guests can use small forks or spreaders for easy eating.
Questions and Answers about Shropshire Blue
What is Shropshire Blue cheese?
Shropshire Blue is a blue cheese from England made from cow’s milk. It features an orange color from annatto and blue veins from mold. The cheese has a creamy texture and a balanced flavor.
How should I store Shropshire Blue cheese?
Store Shropshire Blue in the refrigerator wrapped in wax paper or foil. Keep it in the vegetable drawer to maintain humidity. Proper storage prevents Shropshire Blue from drying out or absorbing odors.
What is the shelf life of Shropshire Blue cheese?
Shropshire Blue typically lasts 2 to 3 weeks when stored correctly. Check for mold growth or off smells to ensure freshness. Always consume Shropshire Blue before its use-by date for best quality.
How do I cut Shropshire Blue cheese?
Cut Shropshire Blue with a sharp knife into wedges or slices. Avoid crushing the blue veins to preserve texture. Serve Shropshire Blue in portions that showcase its color and veining.
Can I cook with Shropshire Blue cheese?
Yes, Shropshire Blue melts well in sauces, soups, and baked dishes. It adds richness to pastas and gratins. Use Shropshire Blue sparingly to avoid overpowering other ingredients.
Where can I buy Shropshire Blue cheese?
Purchase Shropshire Blue at specialty cheese shops, supermarkets, or online retailers. Look for reputable brands like Colston Bassett or Long Clawson. Shropshire Blue is widely available in the UK and internationally.
What milk is used in Shropshire Blue cheese?
Shropshire Blue is made from pasteurized cow’s milk. The milk gives it a creamy base and rich fat content. This milk type ensures Shropshire Blue has a consistent texture and flavor.
How is Shropshire Blue cheese aged?
Shropshire Blue ages for 8 to 12 weeks in controlled environments. The aging process develops its blue veins and complex taste. Proper aging is crucial for Shropshire Blue’s characteristic sharpness.
Is Shropshire Blue cheese vegetarian?
Shropshire Blue often uses animal rennet, so it may not be vegetarian. Check labels for vegetarian-friendly versions with microbial rennet. Always verify ingredients if dietary restrictions apply to Shropshire Blue.
What makes Shropshire Blue cheese unique?
Shropshire Blue stands out for its orange color and balanced flavor profile. It combines creaminess with sharp blue notes in a distinctive way. The cheese’s visual appeal and taste make Shropshire Blue a gourmet favorite.
Recipe Ideas with Shropshire Blue
Shropshire Blue and Pear Salad
This salad highlights the creamy texture of Shropshire Blue against crisp greens. It is a quick and elegant dish perfect for starters or light meals. The sweetness of pears balances the sharpness of the cheese beautifully.
Shropshire Blue crumbles easily over the salad, adding color and flavor. Use fresh, ripe pears for the best results. This recipe can be adapted with different nuts or dressings to suit your taste.
- 100 grams Shropshire Blue cheese, crumbled
- 2 ripe pears, sliced
- 100 grams mixed salad greens
- 50 grams walnuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wash and dry the salad greens, then place them in a large bowl.
- Add the sliced pears and toasted walnuts to the greens.
- In a small jar, shake together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Sprinkle the crumbled Shropshire Blue cheese on top just before serving.
Shropshire Blue Stuffed Chicken Breast
This recipe uses Shropshire Blue to create a rich, flavorful stuffing for chicken. The cheese melts into a creamy sauce inside the breast. It is a hearty main course that impresses guests with minimal effort.
Shropshire Blue adds a tangy depth to the chicken, complementing herbs and spices. Serve it with roasted vegetables or a simple salad. The dish showcases the versatility of Shropshire Blue in hot preparations.
- 2 chicken breasts, about 150 grams each
- 80 grams Shropshire Blue cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
- Make a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally.
- Mix Shropshire Blue, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Stuff the mixture into the chicken pockets and secure with toothpicks.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe pan and sear chicken for 2 minutes per side.
- Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
Similar Cheeses and Alternatives to Shropshire Blue
Shropshire Blue is often compared to Stilton, another English blue cheese. Stilton shares a creamy texture and blue veining but lacks the orange color. Both cheeses offer a rich, tangy flavor suitable for similar uses.
Other alternatives include Danish Blue or Gorgonzola Dolce from Italy. These cheeses provide different intensities of blue mold and varying textures. Shropshire Blue remains unique for its color and balanced taste profile among blue cheeses.