What does Muenster cheese taste like? It may be the most curious question when picking this cheese for cooking. Since there are different types of Muenster, knowing each version’s taste can help you define which one you need.
Therefore, in this article, I will give you a detailed guide on the taste of each Muenster version. Other information about Muenster will also be discussed, so let’s take advantage of this helpful article.
What Is Muenster Cheese?
When it comes to Muenster cheese, you may think of its unique taste or eye-catching appearance. But do you know the background of Muenster and its patterns are also interesting? Let’s look into the special story behind Muenster!
Origin
Nowadays, Muenster cheese is famous in America, but this version is not original. The authentic version of Muenster originates from the northeastern region called the Alsace of France.
In the 7th century, monks came to Alsace’s Munster valley to spread religion and cheese recipes. Since there was a lot of cow’s milk in this area, monks made cheese to save milk and feed people. For that, this cheese took the name of the Munster valley.
Later in the 1800s, Muenster established roots in Wisconsin, following French immigrants’ recipes. Muenster has become a regular cheese in many grocery stores and supermarkets. Nowadays, America and European countries are the leading producers of Muenster.
A Quick View About Muenster Cheese
Muenster is a washed-rind cheese treated regularly by brine or mold-bearing agent. Usually, cheesemakers use pasteurized cow’s milk to make this cheese. It has a semi-soft texture, an eye-catching orange rind with red patterns, and a light yellow interior.
Depending on Muenster types, the source of milk, and its age, Muenster has a wide range of flavor profiles. Usually, the young Muenster, typically served in America, tastes mild with a smooth texture, while the aged Muenster has a rich flavor with intense aromas.
Besides, the taste of Muenster has been developed by adding ingredients such as annatto colorant or paprika. While annatto brings sweet and pepper flavor with a hint of nutmeg to Muenster, paprika adds a slightly sweet to very hot taste to the cheese.
As a result, you can taste many layers of flavors when trying Muenster. This elegant taste also goes well with many recipes while keeping the original flavor of the dishes the same.
Muenster also has great melting capability and versatility. The cheese melts well in hot dishes, such as grilled cheese sandwiches. When served alone, it’s perfect for an appetizer course.
Furthermore, Muenster is also a great source of nutrition. It has a high protein content and many vitamins, such as Vitamin C, A, and Calcium, that benefit your health. (1)
Last but not least, there are two main versions of Muenster, the American version and the European version. You can easily find Muenster in America and other European countries since this cheese is produced widely in America, France, and Germany.
How Is The Cheese Made?
There are a few differences between the American and European methods of making Muenster cheese. One feature is the source of milk; as Europeans used unpasteurized milk, the Americans favored pasteurized one.
The rest of the making process is quite similar between the two versions. After forming curds, cheesemakers will ladle them into the molds before moving to the aging process.
The cheese will be sprayed or rubbed with a mixture of salt brine and the plant-based colorant annatto for the signature orange-red rind. The aging procedure takes 2-3 weeks for the small wheels, while the big ones may need 3 months.
If you are thinking of making homemade Muenster cheese, here’s how you can pull it off.
Overview Of Muenster Cheese’s Taste
Many people think Muenster is a stinky cheese with a spicy flavor due to its rind, but it is not the case.
Muenster has a creamy and mild flavor, and similar to other cheeses, its taste will develop as it matures. As the cheese ages, it becomes stronger and sharper, with the mature version having a salty kick.
However, most Muensters take little time to age. Therefore, compared to other types of cheese, such as Swiss cheese or Gouda, the taste of Muenster is a bit lighter and milder.
There is also a slight difference in taste between the American and European versions of Muenster. These various flavors can lead to different experiences, so let’s learn more about them.
American Muenster Cheese
This American version of Muenster cheese can be considered the most popular version you can find in any supermarket. It possesses a creamy semi-soft texture that tastes mild and salty.
This version is made from pasteurized whole cow’s milk. Usually, the cheese will take 3 weeks to age and will be ripened in 4-6 weeks for the small cheese. Larger ones may take 2 to 3 months to fully age.
Besides, the American version doesn’t have a funky smell since it has a washed coat. Most Muenster produced in the U.S. is young Muenster.
French Muenster
Since France is the cradle of Muenster, there are many variations of this cheese in France. Usually, French Muenster is made from unpasteurized milk. Especially the two variations of French Muenster, Géromé and Alsace, have anise and caraway seeds.
Alsatian Munster is the first version of this cheese, while the Géromé version is a popular variation. Both versions have received the label AOC to prove their history and quality.
Since this cheese has an aging time of 5 weeks to 3 months, French Munster has a more subtle flavor with a sharpened taste than the American version but is not tangy.
The Géromé variety is aged at least 21 days, while a petit version has a minimum aging time of 14 days.
As a result, French Muenster has a funky smell and a sticky reddish-orange rind. Bacteria in the cheese and annatto also contribute to these signatures.
German Muenster
Muenster is also made in Germany, but just in a few regions, like Wangen and Münstertal. This version has a mild taste with a pale, almost white color. Although the German version takes 4-5 weeks to age, it still has a signature orange rind.
Germany used to produce many Muenster, but it was limited in the Nazi era. Therefore, the French took advantage and became more popular.
How Long Can You Store Muenster Cheese?
The time you can store Muenster depends on many factors, such as its form and storage method. For a sliced Muenster, you can store it for a few days at room temperature and 2-3 weeks if you put it in a fridge.
If you have a block of Muenster, then you can store it for up to six weeks. However, Muenster texture can change the storage time. The hard Muenster can be stored longer compared to the semi-soft version.
Signs Of Spoiled Muenster Cheese
Like many other kinds of cheese, Muenster will go bad if you don’t store the cheese correctly. Consuming expired food is not good since it loses its quality and nutrition, and the worst bacteria can grow and spoil you. (2)
Below are common signs that indicate spoiled Muenster cheese. If you see any of these signs, you should throw away the cheese immediately.
Muenster Cheese Losing Its Yellow Color
Muenster cheese is famous for its orange-red rind and pale yellow inside. However, if you see a weird spot that is darker with black patches, throw the cheese away because this is an indication of mold.
An Unusual Harder Texture
You’re probably aware that most Muenster cheese has a semi-soft feel. As a result, it is unusual if your cheese becomes tougher after a few days. It’s a sign that Muenster is losing moisture and will not provide the best experience for consumers.
Storing Methods For Muenster Cheese
Muenster is a favorite pick of many, and I’m sure you have tossed many leftover Muenster due to the wrong storage method. A few storing guides below can help you to extend the life of Muenster. Let’s check it out.
Using Cheese Bag
The most typical method for protecting opened Muenster cheese is to wrap it in plastic. However, this procedure is not ideal because the plastic could alter the cheese’s flavor and make it smell unpleasant.
Otherwise, keep sliced Muenster in a cheese bag or on paper. Because the porous nature of the bag allows the air to circulate, you can keep it for up to two weeks. Besides, the cheese can stay longer if you scroll it with wax paper before putting it in a sealed bag.
Freezing Muenster Cheese
Freezing is the best way to keep Muenster cheese longer. If you have sliced Muenster, you can put it in a sealed bag before placing it in the freezer. With a block of Muenster, you should wrap it in scrolling paper to avoid the cheese from freezer burn.
Freezing the cheese at 0°F will prevent it from becoming disruptive and causing ice crystals. You can do it with the quick freeze function from your fridge. Muenster can keep quality for 8 months and remain safe if properly frozen.
If your Muenster is sliced, you can use a freezer to store them.
Food Items You Should Pair With Muenster Cheese
Besides having Muenster cheese in various recipes, this cheese is also nice to have in the raw version. Pairing Muenster with alcohol or fruit is excellent since it extends the flavor and brings you new experiences.
Therefore let’s explore some of Muenster’s accompaniments.
- Beer: Pairing beer with Muenster cheese is a good choice. You can easily find Muenster cheese as a snack at many bars. Belgian ales and Muenster are my best friends, but it’s still nice to have this cheese with pale ales, brown ales, and pilsners.
- Wine: Cheese and wine are classic; many gourmets love it. If you think to take a sip of wine, then semi-dry white wines pair well with Muenster. I recommend Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Gris.
- Fruits: It’s flawed if I don’t mention fruits like the matching cards of all kinds of cheese, especially for Muenster. Since Muenster tastes salty, pairing it with juicy fruit like pears, grapes, and apples is beautiful.
Recommended Muenster Cheese Recipes!
Like many other cheese types, Muenster has incredible versatility, which can go into many cooking recipes. Below are some common dishes using Muenster. Let’s take a quick look at them.
1. Crustless Spinach Quiche
Many people love Quiche for its incredible versatility. You can have Quiche for brunch, lunch, dinner, or snack. Using leftover ingredients to make this cheesy and savory dish is super easy, so you won’t want to miss this recipe.
Since it is an easy recipe for breakfast or lunch, you must try this Crustless Spinach Quiche.
2. Oven-Baked Muenster Chicken
Breaded chicken baked with Muenster is a beloved dish of many family dinners. You can have this dish with rice, or salads are still okay. The Muenster cheese with the chicken will bring a creamy taste with a subtle hint of wine and spice.
3. Muenster And Avocado Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
There are many sandwiches, but the combination between cheese and avocado is a classic pick. Muenster cheese and avocado make the sandwiches look delicious with their mesmerizing creamy texture.
4. Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese
Buffalo chicken grilled cheese is a perfect lunch that you can prepare in just 20 minutes. You can feel the spicy kick from buffalo sauce, melted cheese, and buttery, crunchy bread in one bite. With this dish, your mouth will bloom in flavor.
FAQs
So now, all the information about Muenster cheese is in your hand. I hope it can help you be less confused about Muenster. If you still want to learn more about this cheese, let’s look at the commonly asked question below.
Don’t Let Muenster’s Smell Fool You!
The funky and stinky smell of Muenster may stop many people. However, its flavor is memorable, so you should try to taste Muenster once. Besides, having Muenster is also beneficial for your health since it has a great source of nutrition.
Lastly, please share this helpful information with your friends and family. They would be surprised by this typical cheese. If you have any options about Muenster cheese, I always welcome you to show them in the comment section.
References
- Food data Central Search Results FoodData Central.
- Department of Health & Human Services (2000) Food – use-by and best-before dates, Better Health Channel. Department of Health & Human Services.
