There is a growing interest in cheese-making in the fast-paced food scene in Singapore, where the popularity of artisanal cheeses, gourmet Charcuterie boards and European cheese-based dishes has been on the rise. For cheese aficionados in Singapore, the process of transitioning from admiring premium cheese plates to creating artisanal cheeses is an exhilarating and rewarding experience.

The Singapore Cheese Renaissance

Singapore has adopted the international trend of acknowledging the quality of cheeses and cured meats. Local cheese shops in Singapore have been established throughout the city-state, catering to the needs of cheese and cured meats aficionados. Whether you are looking for the finest artisanal cheeses in Singapore or are curious about the local European cheeses delicacies available, the selection is wide and varied.

The thrill of artisanal cheese DIY

In the mist of the current cheese craze, Singapore cheese enthusiast are captivated by the idea of creating their own cheese at home. Not only is the process of making cheese satisfying, but it also provides an opportunity to experiment with different flavours and textures.

Getting Started: Cheese-Making Essentials

In order to begin your journey in the art of cheese-making, you will require some basic equipment and components, which can be typically be acquired from a well-equipped cheese shop in Singapore or can be purchased online.

1. Milk : You can start with fresh, top-notch milk. Most people go for cow’s milk, but you can also try goat’s or sheep’s for a unique flavour.
2. Culture and Rennet: These are what kick-start the cheese-making process. These are different types of cheese cultures and different types of rennet, each of which contributes to different types of cheese.
3. Cheese Mold : Depending on what kind of cheese you’re making, you might need to use a different mold to form it. Different cheeses come in different shapes and sizes.
4. Cheese Cloth : It is super important to use a cheese cloth when you’re making cheese because it helps get rid of the whey that builds up in your cheese curds.

The Cheese-Making Process

Making artisanal cheese takes a lot of work. You need to heat up milk and add cultures, then it needs to be curdled, drained, and aged. It takes alot of attention to detail and patience, but you’ll end up with a cheese that shows your hard work and creativity.

1. Milk Collection: Fresh, high-quality milk is collected and heated in a large pot or vat. The type of milk used and its source will determine the type of cheese produced.
2. Coagulation: Rennet is added to the milk to initiate coagulation. The milk begins to thicken and form curds. The time it takes for coagulation to occur can vary depending on the type of cheese.
3. Cutting the Curd: Once the milk has formed a solid curd, it is cut into small pieces. The size and shape of the curds will affect the cheese’s texture. Some cheeses have large curds, while others have small, fine curds.
4. Cooking the Curds: The curds are gently heated while stirring. The temperature and duration of cooking vary depending on the cheese type. This step expels whey and further determines the cheese’s texture.
5. Draining and Whey Removal: The whey, the liquid portion of the milk, is separated from the curds. This can be done using a cheesecloth or perforated molds. The whey can be used for other purposes, like making ricotta.
6. Salting: Salt is added to the curds for flavor and preservation. The amount of salt used varies depending on the cheese type.
7. Molding: The curds are placed into molds to give the cheese its final shape. The molds may have different shapes and sizes based on the desired end product.
8. Pressing: The molded cheese is subjected to pressure, which expels more whey and helps the cheese take on its desired shape and texture.
9. Aging: The cheese is transferred to an aging or curing room, where it is stored at specific temperature and humidity conditions. The length of aging varies widely; some cheeses are aged for a few weeks, while others may be aged for several years.

Sharing the Art of Cheese-Making

If your’re a cheese lover, you’ll love to share your unique artisanal cheese with friends and family. Whether you’re looking for cheese catering for an event, or you’d like to create a charcuterie gift basket for a special occasion, your cheese will be sure to make a lasting impression.

In the gourmet cheese world of Singapore, creating your own at home artisan cheese is one of the most satisfying things you can do. It’s a great way to get in touch with the traditional way of making cheese while also being part of the modern cheese culture in Singapore. Whether you are looking for a premium cheese platter, or you want to create your own cheese and provide it as a catering service, the options are endless. So, get your hands dirty, grab your supplies, and start your DIY artisan cheese journey. Your taste buds will thank you for it, and you wont be able to stop there!

Unexpected Cheese Pairings

Cheese is such a versatile food with such complex flavours! Here at The Cheese Deli, we like to push the boundaries of pairings as we feel cheese should not be limited to Wine. The possibilities are endless when it comes to food, so always give everything a try! & now we introduce to you our absolutely unique cheese pairings!

Here’s a couple of our recommendations!

Craft Beer + Aged Gouda

This one’s a match made in heaven. Here at The Cheese Deli we have a constant rotation of craft beers that pair perfectly with pretty much any cheese. Aged Gouda like 1000 Day Gouda, North Holland XO & Rotterdamsche 55 weeks are perfect for robust stouts! 

Whisky + Aged Gouda

What is a keto diet? A keto diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet. The goal of a keto diet is to get your body into ketosis, a state where your body primarily burns fats for energy instead of carbs. To get into ketosis, you need to cut down on carbs and eat more fats and a bit more protein.

If you’re a cheese lover following a keto diet in the bustling city of Singapore, you’re in luck! You’ll be able to enjoy the creamy, rich flavor of cheese while still adhering to your keto lifestyle. In this blog, we’ll look at how you can add artisanal cheese to your ketogenic diet, as well as how you can enjoy European cheese delights and exclusive Singapore cheese offerings.

How Cheese fits into a Keto Diet:

Cheese is a Keto-friendly food for several reasons:

1. High in healthy fats: Cheese is a source of dietary fat, a key component of the ketogenic diet. Generally, dietary fat should comprise the majority of daily caloric intake on a ketogenic diet, and cheese s an ideal source of dietary fat.
2. Moderate protein content: Cheese may contain some protein crystals in it but it’s usually on a moderate amount that won’t mess with your body’s ketosis process. When you’re on a ketogenic diet, it’s important to keep your protein intake to a moderate amount so you don’t have to worry about your body breaking down too much protein.
3. Low in Carbohydrates: A variety of cheeses are known for their low carbohydrate content, making them an ideal option for those on a ketogenic diet. Generally, aged cheeses such as Cheddar, Mozzarella, and Parmesan contain fewer carbohydrates than their fresh counterparts.
4. Satiety and Flavour: Cheese is one of the best tasting food on the Keto diet because of the rich and intense flavour it holds. This can help you feel fuller

Choosing the right cheese on Keto:

Not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to keto. Here are some tips on choosing cheese for your ketogenic diet:

1. Option for High-Fat Cheeses: If you’re on a keto diet, it’s a good idea to go for cheeses that have a higher fat content. Some of the best cheeses to go for are our Vacherousse d’Argental which is a double cream brie and has more fat content to it or the Delice de Bourgogne
2. Check Carbohydrate Content: It is important to read the labels when consuming cheese, particularly if it is flavored or processed. It is recommened to select cheeses with a low carbohydrate content, as cheese is typically low in carbohydrates.
3. Diversify Cheese Choices: In order to keep your meals varied and intersting, experiment with a variety of cheeses. this can also help to provide a wider variety of nutrients
4. Consider dairy Sensitivity: Some people may have a hypersensitivity to dairy products, which may impede their capacity to remain letotic. If you experience problems with dairy intake, you may wish to consider alternatives that do not contain lactose, such as non-dairy products

Incorporating Cheese into Keto Meals:

Here are some practical ways to incorporate cheese into your keto meals:

1. Cheese and Charcuterie platters: Make a cheese platters with your favourite cheeses like double cream brie together with keto-friendly cold cuts and nuts.
2. Cheese Omelets: A keto cheeese omelet is the perfect way to start your day.
3. Salads: If you’re looking to add some flavour and healthy fats to your keto salads, try adding shredded cheese.
4. Keto-friendly Casseroles : In addition, cheese can be used to create ketogenic casseroles such as cauliflower marcaroni cheese, which is a combination of high- fat cheese with low-carb components.

It is important to remember that cheese should not be included in a ketogenic diet, as it should be part of a balanced diet that consists of a variety of high-fat, low-carbohydrate foodds. Additionally, it is important to monitor the total amount of macronutrients consumed to ensure that the daily carbohydrate limit is adhered to and that ketosis is achieved.

Exploring European Cheese Traditions

The Cheese Deli is proud of be carrying over 60 different types of artisanal cheese from all over Europe to nice warm Singapore. We feel very honoured and privilaged to be able to bring the taste of the world right to your doorstep (like quite literally because we do delivery for artisanal cheeses) Every culture has their own traditions, like how in Singapore we have mooncake festival! We are proud to Europe is a treasure trove of cheese traditions stand as a testament to the amazing cultures, landscapes and histories. From the snow-capped mountains of the Alps to the rolling hills of the Mediterranean.

Lets start off with Switzerland and their cheese traditions!

Switzerland – Alpine Excellence

In the amazing Swiss Alps, cheese-making has been apart of their culture and way of life for many generations. Does Gruyere, Tete de Moine & Emmental ring any bells ? These are the famour cheeses that originated in this magnificent region. Traditional methods are still used to preserve terroir of the Alps! The flavours of the Alps ranges from nuttt to earthy. The tradition of herd migration between mountain pastures is what contributes to the wonderful characteristics of swiss cheeses.

France – The Art of Affinage (A.K.A Cheese Aging)

Of course everyone knows that France has a reputation for all their world-renowned cheeses. Ranging from soft velvety Brie de Meaux to robust flavours of Roquefort, French cheeses embodies intricacy and sophistication. The art of affinage is celebrated all over france, from the cellars of Normandy (where Camembert de Normadie comes from) to Auvergne (where Bleu d’Auvergne comes from), the Affineur carefully controlls the aging process to develop the distinct flavours of each cheese.

Italy – Diverse Delights

The cheese culture in Italy varies from region to region. Parmigiano Reggiano is hail as the ‘King of Cheese’ and is definitely an Italian icon. Aged for years to develop the granular texture and robust flavours. Pecorino Romano is made of Sheep’s milk and boasts intense flavours which reflect Italy’s diverse pastures!

Netherlands: Dutch Craftmanship

The Dutch are known for their cheese prowess, and their traditional of crafting wheels of Gouda and Edam is known worldwide. Boer’n Trots series that we carry instore is a perfect example of Dutch Craftsmanship as it is one of the most popular cheeses @ The Cheese Deli. Boer’n Trots XO has a perfect balance of savoury, sweet and creamy which always keeps you coming back for more. Dutch cheese markets remain a testament to the country’s cheese-making history.

Come by The Cheese Deli to try all these European cheeses and charcuterie!

The Art of Pairing: Wine & Cheese

First of all to start of this blog, pairings are very personal to everyone as each person’s perception of flavours are different! Cheese & wine go together like 2 peas in a pod, whenever you’re having a glass of wine you probably would think to yourself is there anytHing at our local cheese shop I could get artisanal cheese to elevate these flavours! I underatand wine and cheese pairings in Singapore are not part of our staple diet but I promise its something you should try at least once!

Before we get into our first pairing, we should probably get into the technicalities of wine and cheese pairings. Its a chemcial interaction between flavours like protien and fat content of the cheese can soften the tannins (tannins are compounds in wine that can make your mouth feel dry and add some bitterness) in red wines. And the high acidity in wines can cut through rich flavours of cheeses.

Today we will go through 3 different wine and cheese pairings from all the products that can be found at The Cheese Deli Singapore! We are a speciality cheese store that specialises in European cheese in Singapore & have premium cheese varieties from all over the world. In our opinion this is one of the best wine and cheese pairing combinations

Get ready for this cheese & wine pairing guide!

Lets go into our first wine and cheese pairing!

1000 day gouda + Guarda Rios Gold Edition 2020

1000 day gouda is one of the most popular cheeses we have at The Cheese Deli! Always a crowd favourite because of its intense savouriness, hints of caramel, flaky texture and overall wholesome flavour. And of course you cannot forget the protien crystals you get with every bite for a lil crunch!

Guarda Rios Gold Edition 2020 comes from a winery located in a transition zone, between the hills of the north Alentejo and the plains of the south. The vineyards are planted in a valley, surrounded by a forest of cork trees and water streams. 8 types of soils, different exposures to the sun, an array of tools for the winemakers to produce amazing wines. This fresh and diverse valley, proves to be the perfect location to produce inviting and aromatic wines that stand out as elegant with an international profile.

The pairing

The depth, complexity and rich character of the wine pairs well with the intense flavours of the 1000 day gouda. The wine’s characteristics complements the cheeses’ long maturation process. the wine carries good acidity that will help cut through the rich flavour & crumbly texture that provides a good contrast.

Brie de Meaux + Tikveš Alexandria Cuvée White 2022

Brie de Meaux is a classic french cheese that is known far and wide. Brie de Meaux originated in the town of Meaux in France just outside of Paris. Brie de Meaux is knowns for it’s rich, creamy and mushroomy flavours. The soft bloomy rind (the outerside of the cheese) is edible and adds texture and flavour to the cheese.

Tikveš Alexandria Cuvée White 2022 is an amazing wine North Macedonia. If you’re like me and have no idea where Macedonia is, it’s situated in Southeastern Europe bordering Bulgaria to the east and Greece to the south. This wine is made with Chardonnay and Rieseling grapes with hints of tree fruit (peach, apple & pear), citrus (citrus, lemon & orange), yeast (banana, cream, yeast)& earthy (minerals, honey, stone).

The Pairing

The acidity of the wine helps cut through the rich and buttery notes of Brie de Meaux, it helps cleanse the palate after each bite of creamy cheese. Citrus, apple and pear flavours complement the earthiness and mushroom notes of the cheese. This combination is a harmonious blend of flavours.

Tete de Moine Gold + Tapada do Chaves Frangoneiro Reserva Tinto 2015

Tete de Moine is also known as ‘ Monk’s Head Cheese ‘ or as some of our customers like to call it ‘ flower cheese ‘. This cheese is loved by everyone we introduce it to as it’s flavours are delectable! The nutty, buttery & savoury notes really come out when you curl them into flowers. Changing the tetxture really helps bring out the undertones of the Tete de Moine.

Tapado do Chaves Franoneiro Reserva Tinto 2015 is widely raved about in the wine community. It recived a 4.3 star rating on Vivino! This wine comes from Portugal in the Alentejano region and made in the Tapada do Chaves winery. It’s dry, has high acidity, medium tanins and a very full body. It has hints of vanilla and smoke on the palate with a long finish. It has great balance and this wine is definitely one that covers all the bases.

The pairing

The vanilla, tobacco & oak notes from the wine complements the buttery and nutty undertones of Tete de Moine, this also enhances all the best notes of both.

I hope this blog was informative about cheese and wine pairings of the wines and cheeses we offer here at The Cheese Deli. We offer a wide selection of artisanal cheese, wine & charcuterie! but if you dont want to assmble it yourself, we also offer premium cheese platters!