What are Wisconsin Cheese Curds?

If you’re from Wisconsin, you no doubt tasted or at least heard of cheese curds. They are a regional favorite. Wisconsin cheese curds are most commonly white or yellow Cheddars. At West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe, we offer both white and yellow cheddar Wisconsin cheese curds, plain or flavored with cajon, dill, or jalapeno; as well as, brick cheese curds. They are about the size and shape of shell peanuts with a mild, milky, salty flavor. They have the same firmness as mild Cheddar cheese, but with a more springy texture.

Cheese curds are packaged within hours of manufacture and are the original form of cheese before being packed into wheel or loaf shaped forms.

How can you tell if Cheese Curds are fresh?

Fresh cheese curds squeak against your teeth when bitten into. Since cheese curds will typically loose their squeak within a matter of days as the cheese curds age, heat them in your microwave for 5 -10 seconds to bring back the squeak.

How to handle Wisconsin Cheese Curds.

Refrigerate cheese curds in the original wrapping until ready to use. If the original wrap is removed, rewrap cheese tightly in a plastic bag with an interlocking seal to prevent air pockets and absorption of other food flavors.

For serving, it is best to serve cheese curds at room temperature to bring out the flavor. Remove one to two hours before serving, but leave wrapped so they don’t dry out.

What do I do with Wisconsin Cheese Curds?

Because they are salty, Wisconsin cheese curds are excellent with pale ales and lagers or with popular snacking favorites such as pretzels or nuts. Cheese curds can also be used on salads or alternated with fresh fruit for fun kabobs. Top hearty fries with cheese curds and a light chicken gravy to make your own Canadian favorite, Poutine. Of course, let’s not forget, deep fried cheese curds are always a great appetizer.

For recipes, history, and entertaining information about Wisconsin cheese curds, visit Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board’s EatCurds.com. It’s a very entertaining site. If you have a craving, stop by one of our stores or order on-line.