Exploring the Unique Smell of Limburger Cheese

Introduction to Limburger Cheese

Limburger cheese is a type of cow's milk cheese that has gained a reputation for its distinctive and strong smell. Often described as smelling similar to sweaty feet or dirty socks, the cheese's aroma is an acquired taste for many cheese enthusiasts. Despite its pungent reputation, Limburger has a creamy texture and a mild tangy flavor that is appreciated by those who dare to taste it.

The Bacteria Behind the Smell

The characteristic smell of Limburger cheese is primarily attributed to the bacteria used in its fermentation process, specifically Brevibacterium linens. This bacteria is also responsible for the aroma of sweaty feet and dirty socks, making it a fascinating aspect of the cheese's heritage.

My Personal Experience with Limburger Cheese

My mom recently shared her experience with Limburger cheese, stating that it smells incredibly stinky, which is something I can understand based on my previous experiences with strong-smelling cheeses like Parmesan. The smell of Parmesan can be so overpowering that it can make me want to run to the bathroom. When my mom mentioned that Limburger might be even more stinky, I was intrigued but cautious.

First Encounter with Limburger Cheese

My first encounter with Limburger cheese was purely by chance. It was on sale, and after a quick check of the ingredient list to confirm that it was vegetarian, I added it to my shopping cart. The moment I opened the cheese, it released a strong smell that was definitely noticeable but not unpleasantly so.

Welcome It with Mustard and Rye Bread

Much like Parmesan, Limburger cheese is often paired with mustard and served on rye bread. I followed this custom and placed a thin layer of mustard on each slice of rye bread, then added a slice of Limburger cheese in between. The combination was surprisingly delicious, and the smell became more tolerable with each bite. It’s important to note that the cheese’s smell can intensify over time, making it even more suitable for sandwiches where it can be spread more evenly.

Direct Contact and Bacteria Interaction

While enjoying Limburger cheese, I found that direct contact with my fingers resulted in a more pronounced smell. This smell remained on my hands even after multiple washes and was so strong that people who touched my fingers after this interaction refused to eat any more of the cheese. The intensity of the smell was so vivid that one person equated it to the smell of my fingers after scratching near the anus. This description, while extreme, highlights the power of the cheese's smell and the potential for skin-to-skin (or cheese-to-skin) interaction to intensify the odor.

Conclusion

While Limburger cheese's smell might be off-putting for some, it is certainly an experience worth trying for those willing to embrace the unexpected. The cheese's unique aroma and creamy texture make it a fascinating choice for cheese lovers, especially when paired with mustard and rye bread. As with any strong-smelling cheese, caution and respect for others are key, as the lingering odor can be quite potent.

Related Cheese Varieties

For those who want to explore more cheeses with unique odors, you might consider trying:

Tomme de Savoie - another mammal-based cheese known for its strong smell and flavor. Stinking Bishop - a cheese from England that is intentionally made to smell very strongly, often described as having the smell of a barnyard. Hoolandse Kaas - another Dutch cheese that has a distinct and strong aroma.

These cheeses, like Limburger, offer a unique sensory experience and are worth a try for adventurous eaters.