Weisslacker facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Weisslacker |
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Other names | Beer cheese, Beer kaese, Bierkäse, Bierkaese, |
Country of origin | Germany |
Source of milk | Cow |
Pasteurised | Yes |
Texture | Semi-soft |
Aging time | 7 months |
Weisslacker (or Weißlacker) is a unique type of cheese. Its name means "whitewashed" in German, because of its light-colored rind. It is also known as bierkäse or beer cheese. This cheese comes from Germany, but it is now enjoyed all over the world. It is also made in the United States, especially in Wisconsin.
Weisslacker is a cheese with a strong smell. It has a salty taste and a semi-soft texture. It is aged for about seven months in very humid places. This cheese is related to Limburger cheese, which also has a powerful smell. However, Weisslacker has a surprisingly mild taste, even with its strong aroma.
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What is Weisslacker Cheese?
Weisslacker is a special cheese made from cow's milk. It is known for its strong smell, which can be quite noticeable. Despite the powerful smell, many people find its taste to be quite gentle and pleasant. It is a surface-ripened cheese, meaning its flavor develops from the outside in.
How is Weisslacker Made?
The process of making Weisslacker cheese is similar to how brick cheese is made at first. After it is formed, the cheese is left to ripen. This ripening takes about seven months. During this time, it is kept in very humid conditions. This special environment helps the cheese develop its unique flavor and texture.
How to Enjoy Weisslacker
Many people who love Weisslacker cheese enjoy it with beer. Some even dip the cheese directly into their drinks! This is why it is often called "beer cheese." Its strong flavor can be too much for wine, so beer is a more common pairing.
Weisslacker is also often served on small slices of rye or pumpernickel bread. Sometimes, people add sliced onion on top. You can often find this cheese on menus in pubs and restaurants in the Czech Republic. This country is famous for drinking a lot of beer. Weisslacker is also used in cooking. It can be an ingredient in different breads, soups, and dips.
Protected Cheese Name
In the European Union (EU), the names Weißlacker and Allgäuer Weißlacker are protected. This means that only cheese made in a specific way and from a specific region can use these names. This protection is called a protected designation of origin. It helps make sure the cheese is authentic and of high quality. This rule has been in place since 2015.