The Quest for the Best American Cheese: A Guide to Regional Favorites
When it comes to cheese, there is no shortage of options in America. Each state has its own unique dairy traditions, resulting in a variety of flavors and textures. In this article, we explore the top cheese brands and regions, with a particular focus on the differing qualities of northern and southern cheeses.
My Current Cheese Favorite: Darigold Brand White Cheddar
While there is great cheese available everywhere, my current favorite is the Darigold brand white cheddar. However, in my local market, the Tillamook brand stands out as the gold standard. This cheese, originally from Tillamook, Oregon, outshines all store brands and even surpasses the renowned Kraft products. If you're in the market for quality cheese, consider checking out Grocery Outlet, where you can find excellent options like Wisconsin’s Finest and a variety of delightful goat cheese spreads.
English Cheese as a Comparative Benchmark
While I have a soft spot for UK cheese, there are notable American brands that can hold their own. One of my favorites, the Coastal brand made in Dorset, England, is a must-try. However, American cheese can often offer unique twists on familiar European cheese styles. My current favorite Cheddar locally comes from a farm in New Jersey, while my favorite Goat Cheese is from a farm in Western Massachusetts.
The Top 10 American Cheeses
Here are the top 10 cheeses that you should try if you're a cheese lover:
1. Feta
A traditional Greek cheese, feta has a tangy, salty flavor that is perfect for salads and snacks.
2. Monterey Jack
A mild, creamy cheese that is perfect for melting and eating with crackers.
3. Swiss
A classic alpine cheese with a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that melts well.
4. Brie
A soft, creamy cheese with a bloomy rind that is perfect for spreading or slicing.
5. Provolone
A semi-hard cheese with a rich, flavorful profile that is perfect for grilling or melting.
6. Cheddar
This is the most popular cheese in America, with a range of flavors from mild to sharp depending on its age.
7. Mozzarella
A soft, stretchy cheese that is perfect for pizza and Italian dishes.
8. Parmigiano-Reggiano
A hard, aged cheese with a nutty, savory flavor that is perfect for grating or shaving over pasta.
9. Chevre (Goat Cheese)
A delicate, cream cheese made from goat's milk that is perfect for spreading or treating as a snack.
10. Rhode Island Cheddar
A semi-hard cheese with a slightly sweet flavor that is perfect for melting and carving.
Northern vs Southern Cheese: Quality and Notoriety
While cheese can be found all over America, northern states are often recognized for their high-quality dairy products. Many renowned dairies are located in the northern United States, thanks to the cooler climate and fertile soil. The Midwest, particularly Wisconsin, is famous for its cheese production, and states like Vermont, Maine, Massachusetts, New York, and Washington are also renowned. Temporarily, northern states like Connecticut, Illinois, and New Jersey also produce delicious cheese.
In contrast, southern states may not have the same level of notoriety when it comes to cheese production. However, this does not mean that southern cheese is inferior. Experimenting with local options can reveal hidden gems. In my experience, many of the northern cheeses are indeed amazing, with artisanal cheesemakers creating unique and delicious varieties.
Unique American Cheese Styles
In addition to the classic varieties, there are unique American cheeses that are worth exploring:
1. Small Batch 7-Year-Old Cheddar
Try this small batch, aged cheddar for a rich, complex flavor that sets it apart from your everyday cheddar.
2. Fiddlehead Tomme
This cheese reinterpretation of a European style is crafted to reflect the local terroir.
3. Piermont
A delicious style of cheese that is uniquely American and worth seeking out.
4. Kunik
A spectacular two-milk cheese that is soft and incredibly indulgent.
Vermont, for example, is home to a cheese trail, which is a series of dairy farms and cheese producers where you can explore the local cheese-making tradition. States like Wisconsin and Washington also have their own cheese trails, offering visitors a comprehensive experience of the regional cheeses.
By exploring both northern and southern American cheeses, you'll discover a world of flavors and textures that you may have never encountered before. Whether you're a seasoned cheese connoisseur or a curious newcomer, there is always something delicious to try in the vast and diverse world of American cheese.