CHeese Knowledge

A History of Cheese and Why It’s So Delicious

Cheese holds a special place in the culinary world. Its tangy, savory flavor enhances dishes from breakfast to dessert. But where did cheese come from? How did it become such a ubiquitous, beloved food? Let’s explore the fascinating history of cheese and examine what makes it so incredibly delicious.

The Origins of Cheese

Cheese predates recorded history. Experts believe cheesemaking began accidentally when stored milk curdled, resulting in curds and whey. Our ancestors recognized the curds had a pleasing taste and texture, and cheese was born! Archaeological evidence proves cheesemaking occurred at least 4,000 years ago. Ancient cheese strainers and cheese molds have been discovered from that era.

Cheese emerged as a way to preserve nutrition from milk. Without refrigeration, fresh milk spoiled quickly. Transforming milk into cheese allowed its nutrients to be consumed later. Cheese was a tasty byproduct of food preservation.

Early cheese producers likely had cows, goats, or sheep to provide milk. The origins of cheese are linked to the domestication of dairy animals. As dairying spread around the world, cheese production went with it. Nearly every civilization has developed its own cheese varieties.

Cheese in the Ancient World

In Sumerian culture, cheese was used as a form of currency. In ancient Greece, cheese was honored as a culinary delicacy. Aristaeus, the son of Apollo, was revered as the Greek god of cheesemaking. In Roman times, cheese was widely eaten by both aristocrats and common people. Emperors even received taxes in the form of cheese.

Cheese in the Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, cheese became a staple food in Europe. Monks in monasteries became expert cheesemakers, aging their cheeses in caves. New techniques like rennet use improved cheese quality. Cheddar, Parmesan, Gouda, and Brie all originated in the Middle Ages. With cheese’s long shelf life and portability, it fueled travelers and armies alike. By the 10th century, cheese was a staple across the continent.

Cheese Goes Global

European explorers and colonists brought cheese making to new lands. In the Americas, settlers made simple cheeses from cow and goat milk. Cheese factories opened in the 19th century, greatly expanding cheese production. Cheddar, originally from England, became popular worldwide.

New cheese varieties also emerged. In 1872, American James L. Kraft invented a forerunner of processed cheese. In the 20th century, cream cheese, velveeta, and individually wrapped cheese slices appeared. Quality control improved, making cheap, mass-produced cheese widely accessible.

Today there are over 2,000 cheese varieties worldwide. Traditional small-scale production still occurs. But much cheese is made in massive mechanized factories. Annual global cheese production now exceeds 20 million metric tons. Its portability, long shelf life, and nutrition continue to make cheese a treasured food.

What Makes Cheese So Delicious

Cheese is nutritious, packed with protein, calcium, vitamins, and healthy fats. But its flavor is what makes it so delectable. Cheese contains casein proteins and milkfat, both key to its taste and texture. During cheesemaking, bacteria and enzymes break down lactose and proteins. This fermentation produces tangy, savory, and sweet flavors.

Cheese’s complexity comes from compounds like lactic acid, carbon dioxide, acetaldehyde, diacetyl, and more. The aging process enhances flavor as cheeses lose moisture and compounds break down further. Long-aged cheeses become nutty and piquant. The range of textures also makes cheese appealing, from silky smooth to crumbly and crystalline.

Cheese’s rich umami taste satisfies our appetite and activates pleasure centers in the brain. The nod to food preservation in cheese’s creation makes its flavor even more gratifying. Cheese concentrates the very essence of milk’s goodness.

For millennia, ingenious cheesemakers have crafted incredible cheeses from this sublime, beloved food. Cheese’s ability to nourish, satisfy, and spark joy in people has made it a global favorite. Whether it’s ooey-gooey mozzarella, crumbly feta, or pungent Roquefort, cheese in all its forms is here to stay. Say cheese and celebrate the endless pleasure it brings!