Sunday, August 12, 2012

Where Did Cheese Get Its Name?

Where Did Cheese Get Its Name?

Have you ever stopped and thought just what cheese was, how it came to be, and how it got its name? I mean, the name “cheese” has to have come from somewhere, right? Everything has to have come from somewhere. So, where did cheese come from? Well, let’s take a look shall we?

Well, before you can answer just where cheese gets its name, you first have to have a specific type in mind since no one is exactly sure about where cheese gets its name. However, the origin of the name of most types of cheeses can be explained. Let’s check out a few types of cheeses, shall we?

Where did cottage cheese come from? Well, the term “Cottage cheese” is used to describe a curd product that generally has a mild flavor to it. During its making, it is drained like most cheeses, but not pressed so that some of the whey remains inside of it. The curd is then washed to get rid of acids. This is why cottage has kind of a sweet flavor to it. This particular type of cultured dairy product is not aged or colored.

What about cheddar? Cheddar seems to be very popular among Americans. Well, you may be surprised to know that cheddar originates in England. In fact, that is where cheddar got its name. It was firs t made in the village of…you guessed it, Cheddar. Yep, cheddar came from Cheddar in Somerset, England.

For every cultured dairy product out there, you can bet that there is probably an interesting story behind how that product got its name. There are quite a few out there. In fact, there are over 600 types in France alone! The French really love their cheeses. Don’t count America out. Americans absolutely love their cheese. In fact, it is estimated that the average American eats about 31 pounds of cheese a year. That is one person. One average American eats 31 pounds of cheese in a year. The French are not the only ones who love their cultured dairy products.

The origin of the term “cheese” remains as mysterious as the location of Jimmy Hoffa. No one knows for sure, but everyone has their theories. Maybe one day we will know for sure. But for now, just enjoy it. Get out there and eat your 31 pounds a year.

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