The Ultimate Guide to the Worst Smelling Cheeses on Earth
When it comes to the world of cheese, some varieties truly stand out for their pungent, overpowering aromas. From the visually striking Danish Blue to the infamous Limburger, these cheeses can challenge even the hardiest of cheese enthusiasts. As someone who is familiar with the world of cheese (though not every cheese on the planet), I’m here to guide you through the top contenders for the worst-smelling cheeses. Before we dive in, remember that cheese, like any other food, has its unique characteristics, and what one person finds unpleasant, another might find delightful.
The Smelliest Cheese: Danish Blue
Let’s start with a classic: Danish Blue. If you have a cupboard containing this blue cheese wrapped up tightly, it can easily release its smell beyond the storage area. After a month, this cheese can permeate the entire space, making you question how it’s even possible for a cheese to be this smelly. Danish Blue is a Danish cheese with a striking blue mold, and it’s not just its appearance that makes it memorable; it’s the smell that truly sets it apart.
French Favorites: Munster and Vieux Boulogne
If you’re feeling adventurous and ready to test your senses, head over to France. Munster, a spectacularly smelly cheese from France, is a must-try. Its smell is so strong that it can leave a lasting impression, making it a bold choice for any cheese enthusiast. And let’s not forget Vieux Boulogne, a soft cheese from Boulogne sur Mer in northern France. According to researchers at Cranfield University, Vieux Boulogne is the stinkiest cheese in the world. It beats out other contenders like Stinking Bishop, a cheese so odiferous that it’s banned on public transportation in England, and Epoisses de Bourgogne, another stinky cheese banned in France.
Limburger: The King of Smelly Cheeses
But the real king of smelly cheeses has to be Limburger. This German cheese is not only celebrated for its distinctive odor but also for its interesting process of fermentation. Limburger is fermented using Brevibacterium linens, a bacterium responsible for the strong smell of the human body. So when people say that Limburger smells like human feet, they are scientifically correct. In fact, there’s a story that involves my own experience—once, my girlfriend, who later became my wife, slapped me after I tried to kiss her. The smell of Limburger had permeated my hands, making them smell like they had explored the genitalia of another female. Funny story, but it certainly highlights the potency of this cheese.
Other Smelly Varieties
Other smelly cheeses add their unique touches to the list. For instance, Romano cheese can be similarly odiferous. According to a roommate from my college days, Romano cheese was one of the reasons she moved out after just one month. On the other hand, if you’re more into something less pungent, consider incorporating more butter, particularly ghee, into your diet. Ghee has a high storage value, which makes it an excellent alternative to cheese, which tends to have a shorter shelf life.
Conclusion
The world of cheese is vast, and some varieties are simply better left unopened. If you’re brave enough to explore these smelly wonders, expect a sensory experience that you won’t soon forget. Whether it’s the visual appeal of Danish Blue, the pungency of Munster, or the fame of Limburger, there’s a cheese out there to satisfy your craving for something truly extraordinary. So, the next time you want to add a little excitement to your kitchen, consider giving one of these smelly cheeses a try.