We all look forward to our lunch and energy breaks when we help clients move from one home to another. The packing, dismantling, and moving of furniture using our modern removal fleets certainly builds up an appetite. Like most people in Somerset and across England, we really love cheese. A good lunch for us always includes some form of cheese, with Cheddar being a favourite. This could be in the form of a cheese and pickle sandwich, a ploughman’s lunch, a cheese toastie, a slice of quiche, a baked potato, or cheese coleslaw; the possibilities are endless.
There are many reasons why we, as a nation, have a deep love for this once humble ingredient. It is rooted in our heritage, history, culture, and culinary traditions. Here’s why cheese holds such a prominent place in English life, especially in a Somerset home:
Rich Dairy Tradition:
England has a rich history of dairy farming, with cows raised for milk production for centuries. The country’s landscape and climate, particularly in Somerset, are ideal for grazing. This abundance of milk has led to a long tradition of cheese-making. From the ancient Romans to the medieval monks, cheese has played a significant role in the English diet.
Cultural Heritage and Regional Varieties:
As a nation, we have a rich tradition of regional cheeses, many of which date back centuries. Notable examples include Cheddar, Stilton, Red Leicester, Lancashire, and Cheshire. These cheeses have become beloved staples in English households and are a source of pride and joy. We cherish the heritage of local cheeses, which play an important role in the cultural identity of each of these regions.
Cheese as a Comfort Food:
Cheese is commonly appreciated for its comforting and hearty qualities in Somerset cuisine. Whether melted on dishes like Welsh rarebit, which is a type of cheesy toast or served alongside crackers and wine, cheese brings richness and warmth to meals. In Somerset, we often enjoy it as a snack, as part of a lighter meal, or even as a dessert accompanied by fruit, nuts, and chutneys.
Cheese and the Pub Culture:
Pubs are an essential part of British culture, and cheese is a significant component of their menus. A cheese board or a cheese ploughman’s lunch is a classic offering in many pubs, typically featuring a selection of cheeses served with bread, crackers, or fruits. The tradition of enjoying a pint of beer alongside a small selection of cheeses is an integral aspect of socializing in English pubs.
Cheese in English Food History:
English cuisine has a rich history of incorporating a variety of cheese-based dishes. Think of classics such as cheddar cheese on toast, cheese pasta, cheese scones, and macaroni cheese. These comforting dishes have been passed down through generations, highlighting the cultural significance of cheese.
The Rise of Cheese Appreciation:
In recent decades, our interest in gourmet and artisanal cheeses has grown significantly. As food culture has evolved, there has been an increasing appreciation for high-quality, locally produced cheeses. This shift has led to a greater exploration of diverse textures, flavours, and varieties, ranging from soft cheeses like Brie to more robust options such as aged Cheddar and Stilton.
Cheese and British Identity:
Many of the most cherished English cheeses have come to symbolize national pride. Cheddar, for instance, is one of the most renowned cheeses worldwide and is often linked to the rural traditions of Somerset. The popularity of cheese is connected to the English sense of comfort, tradition, and national identity.
Cheese as a Versatile Ingredient:
In our opinion, cheese is an incredibly versatile ingredient in cooking. We use it in sweet and savoury dishes, from the classic cheese and onion pasty to cheesecake (like the traditional English cheesecake). Whether grated, melted, or enjoyed on its own, cheese can be incorporated into various recipes, making it a popular choice in English cuisine.
As a nation, we love cheese because it is deeply embedded in our food culture, history, and everyday life. From comforting dishes to regional pride, cheese is a versatile, delicious, and long-standing part of Somerset and English tradition!
So why does Somerset have such a deep-rooted love for cheese?
Cheddar cheese has a rich and fascinating history that dates back several centuries. It originates from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, England, and is one of the most popular and widely consumed cheeses in the world today. Historically, for a cheese to be recognized as Cheddar, it had to be made within 30 miles of Wells Cathedral.
The local Cheddar Gorge caves were traditionally used to keep the milk for cheese production cool on hot days. According to legend, cheese was discovered when a milkmaid forgot about a pail of milk. When she returned, she found the milk hardened into the golden product we now know as Cheddar cheese.
Early Beginnings:
The history of Cheddar cheese can be traced back to at least the 12th century. It is believed that the cheese was first made by local farmers in the village of Cheddar, taking advantage of the region’s unique natural resources, particularly the limestone caves in the area. These caves provided an ideal environment for ageing cheese, as they maintained a cool, humid atmosphere—perfect for maturing dairy products.
The name “Cheddar” likely comes from the village itself. The technique of cheese-making was passed down through generations, and Cheddar cheese soon became known for its distinct flavour and texture, which was influenced by the specific conditions of the region.
Spread and Popularity:
By the 17th century, Cheddar cheese had begun to spread beyond Somerset. It was introduced to other parts of England and eventually gained popularity throughout the UK. As transportation improved, the cheese became more accessible to a wider audience.
In the 18th century, the production of Cheddar cheese increased significantly, particularly after the development of the “Cheddar process.” This method involves cutting the curds into small pieces, stacking them, and turning them to release more whey. This technique results in the cheese’s characteristic firm, crumbly texture. The cheese is then aged for varying lengths of time, contributing to its diverse range of flavours, from mild to sharp.
The Global Expansion:
Cheddar cheese began its global expansion in the 19th century, largely due to the growth of British colonies and international trade. By the mid-1800s, Cheddar cheese was being produced and exported around the world, including to countries like America and Canada.
In the United States, Cheddar gained immense popularity and has since become the most widely consumed cheese in the country. Today, the U.S. is among the largest producers of Cheddar cheese. As time passed, Cheddar’s production spread globally, with various countries creating their own versions of the cheese, each featuring unique regional variations in taste and texture.
Key Characteristics:
- Texture: Cheddar cheese is firm and can vary from smooth to slightly crumbly, depending on its ageing process.
- Flavour: Cheddar’s flavour ranges from mild to sharp, with the sharpness increasing as the cheese matures. The ageing process contributes to its distinctive tangy and nutty flavour.
- Colour: Traditionally, Cheddar is pale white or ivory in colour. However, in some regions, particularly in the UK, the cheese is often dyed with annatto to achieve its characteristic orange hue. This colouring is purely for visual appeal and does not affect the taste.
Modern Day:
Today, Cheddar cheese is made worldwide, with various countries and regions developing their own unique styles. West Country Farmhouse Cheddar from Somerset is still regarded as the finest, and it is protected by a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) status. This means that only Cheddar produced in this specific region using traditional methods can be labelled as “West Country Farmhouse Cheddar.”
In the United States, Cheddar has become a staple ingredient in everything from sandwiches and burgers to sauces and snacks. Its versatility and distinct flavour make it a beloved cheese worldwide.
From its humble beginnings in a small English village, Cheddar cheese has evolved into one of the most iconic and widely enjoyed cheeses in the world!
