Why Should You Give Raw Cheese a Try?

Hey CT Ranch Family!

Have you ever wondered what makes raw cheese so amazing? Or how it can be so good for your digestion? Cheese can be a pretty fascinating topic, full of interesting processes and regulations. So, grab a cracker, and let’s explore the wonderful world of cheese together!

What’s Raw Cheese All About?

This wonderful creation is made from unpasteurized milk, which means it hasn’t been heated to kill off those beneficial bacteria our bodies love. But that’s not all! It’s also packed with probiotics and enzymes that support gut health and digestion. As a live food, raw cheese is full of nutrients that nourish your body and keep your immune system strong! So, if you’ve ever struggled with dairy, raw cheese might just become your new best friend.

The Aging Game

Have you noticed the “Aged for 60 Days” label on your raw cheese? Curious why it’s such a big deal? Well, for raw cheese to be sold, it must be aged for at least 60 days. This process is essential for developing those rich, unique flavors we love. And here’s the bonus: it eliminates lactose! That means you can enjoy raw cheese without starting a war in your stomach. As the cheese matures, beneficial bacteria work their magic, creating a bold flavor profile while keeping harmful bacteria at bay. 

Why Some Raw Cheeses Can’t Be Sold

So, why can’t you find soft cheeses like Brie or fresh mozzarella made from raw milk on the shelf? Well, it all comes down to those pesky regulations and the fears that have been surrounding raw dairy for ages. While these cheeses can definitely be made with raw milk safely, they’re caught in a web of longstanding misconceptions. You know the one—where only pasteurized milk gets the “safe for consumption” stamp of approval. 

If you want to learn more about the fascinating history of raw dairy, its endless benefits, and all the misconceptions surrounding it, be sure to check out our “Unpacking Fears on Your Raw Dairy Journey” and “The Fast and Dirty History of Raw Milk” blogs. 

Here’s the scoop: soft cheeses, with their higher moisture content, are a bit more delicate and can be more prone to contamination. That’s why you won’t find them sold as raw. They require a little extra TLC in the cheese-making process. So, while we all love a good Brie or fresh mozzarella, know that those are going to be pasteurized and might not be as easy to digest compared to other raw cheeses.

What’s Up with Cheese Curd?

Let’s not forget about cheese curds! These little nuggets are the building blocks of cheese and the freshest form of it too. They form when rennet is added to milk and heated, causing the milk to split into curds and whey. After the whey is drained, the curds remain, ready to either be enjoyed as is or pressed and aged into the cheeses we know and love, like cheddar. So, next time you spot cheese curds, remember you're looking at the very first step in the journey toward delicious raw and aged cheeses!

Rennet, the Secret Ingredient

This will definitely be a fun party conversation starter! Did you know that rennet is the magic ingredient in cheese making? This enzyme works its magic by separating curds from whey, a crucial step in the cheese-making process. Traditionally, rennet is sourced from the stomach lining of calves, and we’re all about supporting this time-honored method because it delivers rich flavors and wonderful textures.

Speaking of that, here’s a (not so) fun fact: You might want to keep an eye out for cheese made with animal rennet rather than vegetarian versions. Why? Vegetarian rennet is a highly modified, processed food, which has stirred some controversy in the cheese world lately. Animal rennet tends to yield a more authentic and natural flavor, especially in artisanal and raw cheeses. So, when you see a cheese made with animal rennet, know there’s a reason why it’s prized by cheesemakers and connoisseurs alike!

Cheese Crystals: The Hidden Gems

Cheese what? Yes, you read that right—cheese crystals! These little treasures pop up in cheeses like Parmesan when lactic acid breaks down during the aging process. They’re tiny, sparkly bits that add delightful crunch and extra flavor, along with some impressive health benefits!

These crystals are a sign of well-aged cheese, packed with nutrients that your body will love. They’re super easy to digest, making them a great choice for those who typically shy away from cheese. Plus, they often contain beneficial compounds that support gut health.

So, whether you’re a cheese lover or a sworn hater, cheese crystals offer a tasty way to enjoy all the goodness without having to get too adventurous. Grab a chunk of aged Parmesan and discover these hidden gems for yourself!

Quality Always Comes First

Here at CT Ranch, we’re all about bringing you the highest quality cheeses from farms that share our commitment to sustainable practices and animal welfare. The raw cheeses we carry are sourced from like-minded farmers who use A2A2 milk and traditional cheese-making methods, ensuring you enjoy every bite with peace of mind.

Got questions about our cheeses or curious about raw cheese in general? Don’t hesitate to reach out! We love sharing our cheese passion with you!