We finally had temps low enough in Louisiana for me to do a batch of cold smoked cheese. I hunt from October thru January 31, so those months are out for me. Last few weeks have hit near 80 but we had some cool weather Saturday. I got up early and started a batch. I used pitmasters choice in my Amaz-en smoker tube. I place the tube in my fire box and keep all the vents open. Always works well for me.
We are Gouda lovers, and I got a good price on some at Costco. We also had a little cheddar, just the Kirkland brand. I cut it up and put on wire racks with intentions of smoking at least 4hrs, but i wanted to let color determine when I pulled the cheese.
Several hours in I took a few pics, and at one point I maneuvered both racks to the top, because those seemed to be getting the nicest color.
After 7 hours, they looked nice, just how I envisioned the way I wanted.
I brought them in, let them rest a bit, then wrapped in Saran Wrap for a night or so.
And tonight, I finished by vacuum sealing and dating. I tasted some along the way, really expecting it to be too strong because I know it takes a few weeks to mellow. But this cheese already tastes outstanding. Even my better half was munching and didn’t think a rest was necessary. So I know it’ll only get better!
We have a nice mess of smoked cheese now!
We are Gouda lovers, and I got a good price on some at Costco. We also had a little cheddar, just the Kirkland brand. I cut it up and put on wire racks with intentions of smoking at least 4hrs, but i wanted to let color determine when I pulled the cheese.
Several hours in I took a few pics, and at one point I maneuvered both racks to the top, because those seemed to be getting the nicest color.
After 7 hours, they looked nice, just how I envisioned the way I wanted.
I brought them in, let them rest a bit, then wrapped in Saran Wrap for a night or so.
And tonight, I finished by vacuum sealing and dating. I tasted some along the way, really expecting it to be too strong because I know it takes a few weeks to mellow. But this cheese already tastes outstanding. Even my better half was munching and didn’t think a rest was necessary. So I know it’ll only get better!
We have a nice mess of smoked cheese now!
