Cheese

Cheese is one of the best and most popular dairy products that can enhance the flavor of any dish. This flavorful dairy product is enjoyed in a wide variety of ways—whether it’s used for breakfast, in sandwiches, or as a topping for salads and main dishes. With so many types and flavors of cheese available, it’s no wonder it has become a staple in many kitchens around the world.

However, when purchasing cheese, the most important factor to consider is its quality. Calin Dairy has focused on delivering the best and highest-quality cheeses, considering the importance of flavor, texture, and consumer health. Calin’s cheeses come in two categories: natural cheeses and processed cheeses. Understanding the difference between these two types will help you make the best choice when buying cheese.

Buying Natural Cheeses

Natural cheese is produced using fresh, natural ingredients, including milk, salt, cheese cultures, and natural colorants. The process of making natural cheese involves aging it for several months in a controlled environment, which allows it to develop its unique texture and flavor. Calin’s selection of natural cheeses includes:

• Natural Pesto Cheese
• Natural Emmental Cheese
• Natural Cheddar Cheese
• Natural Parmesan Cheese
• Grilled Cheese (Halloumi)
• Natural Gouda Cheese
• Natural Gorgonzola Cheese

Natural cheeses are often categorized by their texture, which ranges from soft to hard. There are three main categories for the texture of cheese: soft, semi-hard, and hard. Understanding these categories is crucial when choosing the right cheese for different dishes. Let’s dive into these textures in more detail.

Soft Cheeses

Soft cheeses, such as cream cheese, labneh, and processed breakfast cheese, have a creamy texture that makes them easy to cut with a fork or knife. These cheeses are typically aged for a shorter time—about two months or less—especially after being opened. They have a more delicate, milder flavor than hard cheeses and a softer, looser texture. Soft cheeses are high in water and fat, which makes them more likely to melt and spoil faster than their hard counterparts.

Hard and Aged Cheeses

Hard cheeses, like Emmental, Parmesan, and Cheddar, have a firm, dense texture. Cutting into these cheeses requires effort, and often they need to be chopped or broken apart using the tip of a knife. Hard cheeses are ideal for grating or crumbling into dishes like pizza, pasta, or salads. These cheeses have been aged for longer periods, giving them a stronger flavor and firmer texture. To make hard cheeses, the milk used must be low in fat, which leads to a higher protein content. These cheeses are available in both pasteurized and unpasteurized forms, giving you options based on your preferences.

Semi-Hard Cheeses

Semi-hard cheeses, such as Gouda, are somewhere between soft and hard cheeses in terms of texture. While most soft cheeses remain soft due to their high fat content, semi-hard cheeses can mature over time to become firmer and more flavorful. Semi-hard cheeses are ideal for slicing, and they often have a balanced combination of creamy richness and firm texture. Gouda is a classic example of semi-hard cheese, and if aged too long, it becomes a hard cheese.

Buying Processed Cheeses

Processed cheeses are made using a different technique than natural cheeses. They are produced by heating whey at very high temperatures, which eliminates both beneficial and harmful bacteria. This method results in a loss of the cheese’s natural flavor, which is why flavoring agents are added back into the cheese. Processed cheeses are quicker to make than natural cheeses, and they can be consumed as soon as they are packaged. The main benefit of processed cheeses is their long shelf life, making them more convenient for some consumers.

Calin’s processed cheeses include:

• Shredded Mozzarella (various pizza cheeses)
• Parmesan & Mushroom Dip Cheese
• Cheddar Dip Cheese
• Gouda Dip Cheese
• Smoked Dip Cheese
• White Breakfast Cheese
• Labneh Cheese
• Stick Cheese
• Smoked Stick Cheese
• Mozzarella Twist Cheese
• Mozzarella Ball Cheese
• Mozzarella String Cheese
• Sliced Parmesan & Mushroom Cheese
• Sliced Cheddar Toast Cheese
• Sliced Gouda Toast Cheese
• Sliced Cheeseburger Cheddar Cheese
• Processed Cheddar Cheese
• Industrial Processed Cheeses
• Cream Cheese
• Processed Gouda Cheese
• Sliced Cheeseburger Gouda Cheese
• Sliced Cheeseburger Cheese
• Sliced Smoked Cheese

While processed cheeses are not typically as rich in flavor as natural cheeses, they offer several advantages, including ease of use, longer shelf life, and versatility in various applications, such as dips, spreads, and snacks.

The Importance of Cheese Quality

When it comes to cheese, quality is paramount. Whether you are buying natural or processed cheese, the key to enjoying the best flavors is ensuring the cheese has been made with high-quality ingredients and produced under optimal conditions. Calin Dairy is committed to providing cheeses that are not only flavorful but also made with care, ensuring they meet the highest standards of quality. When purchasing cheese, it is essential to know what you’re buying, as the quality of ingredients directly impacts the final taste, texture, and overall experience.

Buying Cheese Online

Given the busy lifestyle many people lead, particularly in urban areas, online shopping has become a convenient and preferred option for purchasing everyday items—including cheese. Calin Dairy understands the importance of convenience and has introduced the option for online cheese shopping. Currently, this service is available exclusively in Tehran. Residents of Tehran can browse Calin’s online store to view various types of cheese, including natural cheeses and breakfast cheeses, and make purchases at the click of a button. Not only can you order cheese online, but you can also check the prices of your favorite products directly on the website.

This online service makes it easier for consumers to access high-quality cheese, saving them time and effort that would otherwise be spent in physical stores. By offering this online platform, Calin Dairy helps customers enjoy a seamless shopping experience while still receiving the same great-quality products they know and love.

FAQs:

1. What are the different types of cheese available?
   There are various types of cheese, including soft cheeses, hard cheeses, and semi-hard cheeses. The most common examples of these are cream cheese (soft), Cheddar and Parmesan (hard), and Gouda (semi-hard).
2. Why is quality so important when buying cheese?
   Quality plays a significant role in determining the flavor, texture, and shelf life of cheese. High-quality cheese, made with fresh and natural ingredients, will offer a more authentic taste and better texture than lower-quality alternatives.
3. How can I buy cheese online?
   In Tehran, you can visit Calin Dairy’s online store to view different types of cheese and make a purchase. Simply browse the available products, select your desired cheese, and complete your order online.
4. What is the difference between natural and processed cheese?
   Natural cheese is made from fresh ingredients and aged over time, while processed cheese is created by heating whey and adding flavorings. Natural cheese tends to have a more complex flavor, whereas processed cheese is more convenient and has a longer shelf life.