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Butterkäse

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Butterkäse
Country of originGermany
Source of milkCows
PasteurizedYes
Texturesemi-soft
Aging time3-4 weeks
Related media on Commons

Butterkäse ("butter cheese" in German) is a semi-soft, cow's milk cheese known for its buttery flavor and creamy texture. It is moderately popular in Germanic Europe, and occasionally seen in the rest of the cheese-eating world. Although primarily produced in Germany, some Butterkäse is produced in Wisconsin.[1][2][3]

Description

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Texture and Flavor

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Butterkäse has a buttery flavor and appearance. Based from Wisconsin Cheese, it is often described as mild, partly due to its brief aging time.[4] It is light in color, ranging from white to light yellow-orange. The softness and mildly salty or acidic flavor is reminiscent of Muenster or Gouda cheeses. Butterkäse first appeared in 1928 as a variant of Italian Bel Paese, which means "beautiful country". The taste of the cheese can be related to Mozzarella and St. Paulin.[5] The texture of Butterkäse is smooth and creamy, sometimes nearly spreadable depending on the firmness desired by the cheese maker.

Cheese Production

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The origin of the traditional swiss cheese (Butterkäse) has a diverse variety that has enticed cheese enthusiasts and connoisseurs. The story of its origin is from the Switzerland's rich dairy heritage. The process of making Butterkäse begins from cow's milk, an essential ingredient in making Swiss cheese. Known for their high-quality dairy production, Swiss farmers supply milk that is utilized as the key aspect of Butterkäse. To make Butterkäse, the milk undergoes a process in specialized dairies through fermentation. Temperature control is vital since if the heating and cooling starts, the milk transforms into a semi-solid form. The curds are then pressed, cut, and left to get soaked in brine. As for the aging procedure, the cheese is then regularly turned and washed, outcoming into a signature Butterkäse which forms a creamy texture and mild nutty taste.[6]

Uses and Servings

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Butterkäse is often sliced and added to rolls and sandwiches or melted for cooking. It is commonly found in a loaf shape convenient for slicing. It can also be found in a smoked variety. Recipes such as Grilled Butterkäse, Mac and Cheese, Cheese Dip, Caramelized Onion Pizza, and Stuffed Chicken Breast have the cheese as their main or side ingredient. German dishes that can include Butterkäse as another component is Salad and Spätzle. It can also be paired with nuts and fruits for an equal cheese platter. [7][8]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Hintz, Martin and Pam Percy. Wisconsin Cheese: A Cookbook and Guide to the Cheeses of Wisconsin. Guilford, CT: ThreeForks, 2008, p. 237.
  2. ^ Fletcher, Janet. "Mild Bodensee Butterkäse a buttery delight", SFGate.com. Published 18 April 2014. Accessed 3 August 2017.
  3. ^ undefined (2024-03-07). "Butterkase Cheese - Origins, Taste, and Uses - WhatCheese". WhatCheese - Every Cheese Tells a Story. Retrieved 2025-02-24.
  4. ^ "Butterkase". Proudly Cheese Wisconsin.
  5. ^ "Bel Paese". www.cheese.com. Retrieved 2025-02-24.
  6. ^ Oconnell, Patrick (February 22, 2025). "Butterkase Cheese: Unveiling The Secrets Of Its Creamy Composition". CY CHEESE.
  7. ^ Montoya, Andy (February 10, 2025). "Butterkase Cheese: A Rich, Creamy German Delicacy". CY CHEESE.
  8. ^ undefined (2024-03-07). "Butterkase Cheese - Origins, Taste, and Uses - WhatCheese". WhatCheese - Every Cheese Tells a Story. Retrieved 2025-02-24.