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Sharp Cheddar

Bos taurus (Milk) Allergens: Milk
Sharp Cheddar

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Bovidae
  • Primary Cuisine British, American
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cow's Milk

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A firm, aged cow's milk cheese known for its distinctively robust, tangy, and often nutty flavor profile.

Sensory Profile

TastePungent, Tangy, Nutty, Salty, Umami
TextureFirm, Crumbly (aged), Creamy (when melted)
AromaButtery, Lactic, Pungent
AcidityMed-High

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 28 g (1 oz)
Calories400 kcal
Total Fat33 g
Saturated Fat20 g
Trans Fat1 g
Cholesterol100 mg
Protein25 g
Total Carbohydrate3 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0.5 g
Calcium700 mg
Iron0.2 mg
Potassium90 mg

Chef’s Secret

For perfectly smooth cheese sauces, shred your cheddar finely and add it to a warm (not boiling) sauce gradually, stirring constantly, to prevent it from seizing.

Substitutions

Best Match

Extra Sharp Cheddar

1:1

Provides an even more intense, complex cheddar flavor profile.

Aged White Cheddar

1:1

Identical flavor and texture, just without the annatto coloring.

Colby Jack (for melting)

1:1

Milder flavor, but excellent melting properties and a good choice for less intense applications.

Gruyère or Aged Gouda

1:1

Offers a similar nutty, complex, and savory flavor with good melting characteristics, though different profiles.

Buying Guide

Look for firm blocks of cheese, avoiding pre-shredded if possible for better flavor and texture. Check for signs of mold only on the cut surface, not throughout.

Flavor Pairings

Apples Pears Crackers Red Wine Beer Burgers Mac and Cheese Chili Sandwiches.