Discovering Queijo Prato cheese from Brazil
Queijo Prato originates from Brazil, specifically the state of Minas Gerais. However, its roots can be traced back to Denmark […]
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Plate Cheese
What is Plate Cheese?
Plate cheese refers to a style of cheese that is formed and sold in a flat, circular shape resembling a plate. This traditional format is common for many artisanal and farmstead cheeses, particularly in European cheesemaking traditions. The cheese is typically aged and served in this distinctive round form.
The plate shape allows for even aging and creates an attractive presentation for cheese boards and retail displays. Many famous cheese varieties like Gouda, Edam, and certain cheddars are traditionally produced as plate cheeses, with the shape helping to develop their characteristic flavor profiles during maturation.
Production Methods
Creating plate cheese involves pressing curds into circular molds that give the cheese its characteristic flat, round shape. The cheese wheels are then typically brined or dry-salted before undergoing a carefully controlled aging process. The production method varies depending on the specific cheese variety being made.
Traditional plate cheese production often uses cloth-bound wrapping or wax coating to protect the cheese during aging. The size of plate cheeses can range from small individual portions weighing a few pounds to large wheels exceeding 20 pounds, with the dimensions affecting the aging timeline and final texture.
Popular Varieties
Several well-known cheese types are traditionally made in plate form. Dutch cheeses like Gouda and Edam are classic examples, often recognizable by their distinctive spherical shapes and colorful wax coatings. French Tomme de Savoie and English cloth-bound cheddars also frequently use the plate cheese format.
Artisanal producers continue this tradition with farmstead cheeses that highlight regional characteristics. These may include raw milk varieties, organic options, and cheeses made with milk from specific animal breeds, all maintaining the plate shape that has proven ideal for proper cheese development.
Serving and Usage
Plate cheese is typically served by cutting wedges from the whole wheel, much like slicing a pie. This presentation method makes it ideal for cheese boards, parties, and retail sales where customers can see the entire cheese before purchase. The shape also facilitates even ripening and consistent flavor throughout.
In culinary applications, plate cheese works well for both cooking and direct consumption. The sturdy structure allows for grating, slicing, or cubing, while the protective rind or coating helps maintain freshness. Many plate cheeses develop natural rinds that contribute to their complex flavor profiles.
Storage and Aging
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining plate cheese quality. The cheese should be kept in cool, humid conditions, typically between 45-55°F with 80-85% humidity. Wax-coated varieties have extended shelf life, while natural rind cheeses require more careful monitoring during storage.
The aging process for plate cheese can range from a few weeks to several years, depending on the variety. During this time, the cheese develops its characteristic texture and flavor compounds. Larger wheels generally age more slowly and develop more complex flavors than smaller versions of the same cheese type.