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Wine Storage: How to Store Wine Properly
If you love wine, then you need to know about wine storage. The temperature, conditions, and position that you store wine in all depend on the type of wine and whether it is open. Read on to find out more and get all of your wine storage questions answered.
Wine Storage: Before the Wine is Open
Control the temperature of the unopened wine. It should not be stored above 70F/21C. Any heat above this may cause your wine to age more quickly or go bad. However, it’s also important that you avoid keeping your wine in the fridge for a long time. This can make the cork dry out, allowing air into the bottle, which could ruin the wine. If you can, make sure that the wine is kept at a consistent temperature.
As a general rule, lighter wines can be kept cooler with heavier wines kept at warmer temperatures.
Another way to preserve your wine is to keep it in the dark. UV rays from sunlight or fluorescent light can cause the wine to take on an unpleasant smell, known as the wine being ‘light struck’. Whilst dark bottles can protect the wine it won’t completely prevent light from entering the bottle. If you do not have a dark space to store wine, try wrapping the bottles in cloth or putting them into a closed box.
Unopened wine should be kept on its side to keep the cork moist and make any collected sediment visible.
Wine Storage: When the Wine is Opened
Replace the cork or screw cap and return the wine to a dark place. A wine that is open should not be kept on its side as you risk spillages and it increases the surface area that is exposed to oxygen.
You should be able to keep an opened red wine for several days. A white wine can be returned to the fridge and should keep for 5 to 7 days. Try to prevent drastic temperature changes as they can cause the wine to break down. If you do need to gradually warm a red wine or cool a white wine to return it to the fridge, use warm or cool water. This will help the wine to reach its temperature without a shock.
Another great way to preserve your wine is to replace the cork or cap between each glass pour.
Wine Storage: Solutions for Your Home
If you are storing lots of wine, then you may want to invest in a storage solution.
Building wine racks in an underground space to create a wine cellar is an easy way to control the temperature and humidity of the wine. If you do choose this option, you may need to develop a storage system so that you can quickly find your wines.
You could also select a wine cooler or cabinet. These will vary from single temperature to multiple temperature zones. They also protect the wine from light.
We hope that our exploration of wine storage has given you some hints and tips that will help you to keep your beloved wine fresh.
Gouda: Everything You Need to Know
We love to help you get to know our cheeses here at Shisler’s Cheese House. Today, we are taking a look at Gouda.
What is Gouda cheese?
Gouda is a yellow cow’s milk cheese. It usually has a red or yellow wax coating. Ours is imported from the Netherlands, where it originated.
How is Gouda made?
It is made by culturing and heating the milk until the curd separates from the whey. When some of it is drained, water is added, which is called “washing the curd”. This process gives a sweeter flavor to the cheese as the washing removes some of the lactic acid. It is aged in cellars for at least 4 weeks. Extra mature versions will have been aged for 7 to 8 months, although it may be left for over a year to become even more flavorful and crunchy.
What does it taste like?
As the cheese ages, it develops a caramel-like sweetness. It sometimes has a slight crunch from the tyrosine crystals that resemble salt. The longer it is aged, the more aromatic and flavored it becomes.
We also sell a Smoked Gouda which is infused with a lovely smoky flavor.
What should I eat it with?
For the simplest snack, serve cubes of Gouda with a dipping mustard as they would do in the Netherlands.
Gouda pairs very well with fruit such as apples and pears. It is also great with other sweet flavors including honey and syrup.
It melts deliciously, so try a slice in your favorite grilled cheese sandwich for extra flavor and that incredible melted cheese effect. Try adding some wholegrain mustard to a grilled cheese. The nuttiness of the cheese pairs really well with the spice of the mustard.
This is also a fantastic cheese to add to a cheese sauce as it will add an extra punch of flavor. Mix it into pasta dishes or grate it over roasted vegetables for a simple cheesy side dish.
If you like to make quick snacks for parties, then you can use this to make quick cheese straws with flaky pastry or layer it vegetables to stuff jalapeno peppers for a spicy treat.
What should I drink it with?
For a special occasion, this cheese is delicious with a glass of champagne or sparkling wine. Other white wines that work well are those that have fruit flavors such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling. If you prefer red wine, we would recommend something light but fruity with a smoky undertone, such as a Beaujolais or a Pinot Noir. A Cabernet Sauvignon would go well with an aged Gouda, although it may overpower a younger cheese. A smoked Gouda is delicious with a glass of spicy Pinot Noir or a Chardonnay.
This cheese also goes very well with beer from light lagers and pale ales to a hearty porter or stout. You could even try it with spirits like Brandy or Calvados.
How do you like to eat your Gouda? Let us know in the comments!
Mustard: Our Favorites
Today we are exploring the world of mustard. Read on to find out more about how it is made and the great range that we have on offer for you to enjoy at Shisler’s Cheese House.
How is it made?
It is made from the seeds of the mustard plant. These are used whole, ground, cracked or slightly bruised. They are then mixed with a variety of liquids including vinegar, salt, and other flavorings or spices to create the delicious condiment that we know and love. The combination of ingredients is what helps them to range from sweet to spicy.
Are there any health benefits?
There is some evidence to show that the seeds could inhibit cancer cells, so you might well be improving your health when you spread some on a sandwich.
A whole range of different mustards
We know that each different occasion calls for a different condiment, which is why we stock a variety of options for you to try.
Bertman Ballpark Mustard is a classic spicy brown sauce. Of course, we recommend enjoying it with a hot dog.
Herlocher’s Dipping Mustard is sweet and tangy: perfect for dipping pretzels into it.
Try our own Shisler’s Private Label Sweet Mustard with ham, sausages, or in a sandwich.
For those who love spice, we created the Shisler’s Private Label Hot Jalapeno Mustard. This is a great accompaniment to creamy cheeses and pickles.
If you like to use lots of garlic in your cooking, then try the Shisler’s Private Label Roasted Garlic Mustard. This is great for stirring into sauces for an extra kick of flavor.
Dick’s Homemade Horseradish Mustard is made right here in Ohio. Eat it with hot dogs or hamburgers for that authentic flavor.
If you can’t get enough, then try our honey mustard pretzels. They make a great snack for movie night.
You’ll also find some along with some delicious treats to eat it with all wrapped up in our Football Season Special.
Tips for using mustard
- Add a spoonful to your cheese sauce. It will give that extra zing to your mac and cheese.
- Create a quick salad dressing with mustard, oil, honey, and vinegar.
- Make a glaze for ham or chicken by mixing it with brown sugar. Add it in the last hour of cooking for caramelization.
- Mix it with mayo. It’ll add an extra kick and you’ll love dipping fries in.
- Spice up potatoes. Add a little to scalloped potatoes or mash and you’re sure to have friends asking for the recipe.
- Add it to breakfast. A small amount can make breakfast potatoes extra exciting and they’ll be perfect to eat with sausages. You can even mix it into beans for added heat.
- Put it in your side veg. Sometimes sides don’t seem that exciting. Add a spoonful to cabbage or broccoli to bring some fun to the table.
- Stir it into your soup as it finishes cooking. You’ll definitely get flavor with your veggies then!
How do you like to eat mustard? Let us know in the comments!
Cheese Making: Which Milks Are Used?
We love to tell you more about the cheese making process here at Shisler’s Cheese House. The more that you know about cheese, the more you can shop for your favorites and discover new delicious delights.
Today we’re going to explain the different kinds of milk used in cheese making and which cheeses you might find them in.
Sheep’s milk
Sheep’s milk has a high lactose content. This means that we rarely drink it, but it is used extensively in cheese and yogurt making. It can sometimes have a distinctive flavor, although this is often masked by the salt used to create the cheese.
Sheep’s milk cheeses include Manchego and Pecorino. Romano Pecorino is made from the milk of sheep that have grazed on specific grasses to impart flavor into the milk. If you love blue cheese, then Roquefort is made with sheep’s milk and has a great tang to it.
Goat’s milk
Goat’s milk is more regularly enjoyed on cereal or as a drink than sheep’s milk. Its qualities mean that it sometimes suitable for those who cannot have cow’s milk.
You’ll find it in simple goat’s cheese or chevre. These cheeses have a creamy texture and a distinct, complex flavor. They are great for cooking with as this flavor works well with many sweet and savory ingredients. It also melts very well, making it an excellent way to add cheesiness to dishes.
Cow’s milk
The most common of the kinds of milk used to make cheese. It has a good amount of fat and protein which makes it favorable for the cheese making process. Look out for cow’s milk cheeses that do not contain any artificial hormones.
You’ll find it in Cheddar, Swiss, and Parmesan amongst many others.
Buffalo milk
This is one of the hardest types of milk to get hold of and so it is very prized within the dairy industry. It is mostly used to make mozzarella and gives it a particularly creamy taste and texture as it has a high fat content.
More unusual milk
These are the different types of milk that you’ll usually find represented on a cheese shelf, but there are still more unusual ones being used all the time. Perhaps you might like to try reindeer or moose cheese? In some countries, cheese made from the milk of a camel is enjoyed. Donkeys, horses, and yaks have all had their milk used to make cheese to enjoy. We are also seeing a rise in non-dairy milk being used to create cheeses that are suitable for vegans or those who cannot eat dairy products. Who knows what will be next into the cheese market?
We hope you’ve enjoyed our quick tour of the different kinds of milk used in the cheese making process. Next time you pop in to fill up your cheese shelf, why not try something made form a more unusual milk and see if you can taste the difference?
Which kind of cheese is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
Flavored Cheeses: Add Flair to Your Cheeseboard
We stock a variety of flavored cheeses here at Shisler’s Cheese House and we love how they can add extra excitement to any cheeseboard. They are also great for adding flavor to a variety of different dishes.
We’ve put together a list of some of our favorites for you to enjoy. We’ve also added some great culinary ideas to use them up.
Bacon Cheese
A creamy cheddar infused with smoky bacon. This is great for breakfast dishes such as muffins or a frittata. The smoky flavor will also work well with slightly sweeter dishes. Add it to a cheeseboard and see if your guests can identify the flavor.
Beer Cheese
A semi-soft combination of Limburger and Brick Cheese. Not to be mistaken for a Beer Cheese dip, it has a very strong smell and taste. Germans like to put it on rye bread along with some sliced onion and have it with beer.
Garlic Cheddar
A lovely mild white cheddar with the addition of flavorsome garlic. This is perfect for pasta dishes or even an extra special grilled cheese. Combine it with mushrooms or ham for brilliant flavor combinations.
Green Onion Cheese
Made with real green onions so that you get plenty of flavor in every mouthful. Try it with a picnic of salads and meats for a simple meal. This is one of our favorite flavored cheeses for adding extra zing.
Havarti Cheese with Caraway
Havarti Cheese is an interior-ripened cheese that is rindless and smooth. It has very small and irregular eyes. It can be somewhat sharp and buttery in taste with sweet notes. This variation of Havarti Cheese is infused with Caraway Fruits, commonly referred to as Caraway seeds, which are the principal element in the flavor of rye bread. It has a pungent anise-like flavor and aroma. Plain Havarti Cheese and Havarti Cheese with Dill are also available.
Horseradish Cheddar
A white cheddar infused with the spicy tang of horseradish. Well balanced so that you get both creamy and spicy flavors coming through. This would work brilliantly with beef burgers or other beef dishes with cheese.
Pepperoni Cheese
One of the nation’s favorite flavors, already infused into cheese for us to enjoy. It’s perfect for pizza! You could also enjoy it on crackers or with vegetables. This is another good choice for a grilled cheese with extra taste.
Bermuda Onion Cheese
A delicious cheese with savory onion tones. Great with pickles or chutney. This could also be an excellent addition to a fondue if you want to make it extra flavorful. Try it melted onto toast with soup. This is perfect when the weather starts to get colder.
Hot Pepper Cheese
We stock a wide range of spicy cheeses, but the hot pepper cheese is a great place to start. It has just the right amount of kick to add fire to your favorite dishes alongside a lovely peppery flavor. It works really well with Mexican dishes such as tacos or quesadillas.
Which of these flavored cheeses would you like to try? Let us know in the comments!
Get Ready with our Football Season Snacks
With the NFL Season fast approaching, we thought it was time to share with you our Football Season Special. It’s full of football season snacks for you.
Inside you’ll find some Swiss Cheese, Troyer’s Trail Bologna, Pepper Jack Cheese, Shisler’s Private Label Mustard, Shisler’s Private Label Hot Pepper Relish, and Carr’s Crackers. We think this is a great combination of snacks.
Swiss Cheese is a mild cow’s milk cheese with a slightly nutty, sweet flavor. This contrasts well against the Pepper Jack Cheese which is flavored with spicy jalapenos, serrano peppers, and habaneros. It has a creaminess and then a good kick from the chilies.
Troyer’s Trail Bologna is a true classic, made in Ohio by the fourth generation of the Troyer family. It is an all-beef chunky bologna with a smoky taste. It’s usually sliced thin and will be delicious with cubes of the Swiss cheese. Pile everything onto a cracker with some mustard or relish and you’ve got an ideal complete snack.
This is the perfect combination of snacks to enjoy whilst kicking back and watching the game. If you want to create more of a meal or you have a large group coming over, why not pair it with some hot dogs or a great big bowl of chili?
If you like a selection of salty football season snacks, check out our gourmet foods section. You’ll find nuts including pistachios, Spanish peanuts, and roasted pecans as well as white chocolate popcorn and trail mixes.
Make sure that you stock up on beers and you’ll have the best sports night ever. Whatever team that you are supporting, you’ll be in good company with our special hamper of treats. It will bring together even the most bitter rivals.
If you’re watching alone, then you’ll have a nice selection to enjoy over several games. It’s sure to keep you fuelled during even the tensest moments of play. Pop your jersey in, get comfy on the couch, and settle in for a great night of family fun.
You could even take this gift box along when you’re tailgating at a college game. Show your support whilst enjoying some great snacks. If you won’t have time to cook something or you just want the ease of showing up with a box of everything you need, then this box if perfect for you.
You can also have this sent to a loved one. Missing a friend or child who’s gone away to college? Send them our gift basket and let them know that you’re thinking of them, even if you can’t watch the game together. We can also put together special gift boxes with non-perishable products if you are sending them overseas.
What are your favorite football season snacks to eat whilst watching the game? Let us know in the comments! Tell us your team, too!
Have a Fun Labor Day Weekend!
We want to wish you all a really fun Labor Day weekend.
For many of us, this weekend marks the end of summer and the beginning of school or work.
If you’re barbecuing this weekend, check out our barbecue checklist or post on great marinades. For summer drinks inspiration, read our list of fun options that you can whip up easily at home or take to the beach. Create a charcuterie board or cheeseboard to impress your guests.
You could add extra cheese to your party with one of our gift boxes, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Our White Wine Collection and Beer Collection are ideal boxes for a great party. Check our gourmet foods section for snacks to keep you going whilst you go for a hike or simply explore your local area. There are so many options, we know that you’ll find something delicious.
It’s the perfect time to make the most of your yard before fall sets in. Celebrating outside also reduces the need for clean up time and means that you can cook out on the grill.
Involve the kids in the celebration. After all, they will be enjoying this time with you before they head back to school. You could let them pick some of the dishes for the table and even let them help you to create them in the kitchen. For younger children, they can still help with decorations or with simple creations such as a cheeseboard. Getting everyone involved has the added benefit of reducing everyone’s workload. As it’s supposed to be a holiday for us all, everyone pitching in is helpful in making sure everyone gets to enjoy some down time.
For this special occasion, you might want to consider your table settings. Even if you’re not having a sit-down meal, you will probably be creating some kind of buffet spread to share. Adding fresh flowers will bring summer right into the party and a little bit of sparkle in the form of some glitter or confetti would also look great. If you want to stick to a theme, why not go for white table settings? You could even have guests take the last chance to wear summery, white outfits. Just be careful that whatever food you are serving doesn’t have too much potential to stain.
We also love fireworks for a celebration. Stock up for your own display or find out where you can see them in your city. Get a big group together to watch and enjoy a moment of childlike wonder under the bright lights.
However you’re celebrating, let’s also remember that this is a day to celebrate the contribution that workers make to our country and our economy. It’s a moment to be grateful for that and for our family and friends around us. As we say goodbye to summer, remember the good memories of the season and cherish them.
How will you be spending your Labor Day weekend? Let us know in the comments!
How to Create a Cookbook Collection
We know that lots of our customers love to cook as well as eating delicious dishes. Building a great cookbook collection can ensure that you always have tasty recipes on hand. You will be ready for a casual lunch, celebratory dinner, or even a large party.
We’ve put together some tips to help you build up a good collection in your home. Whether you are cooking for your family or just for yourself, you’ll be able to equip your kitchen for enjoyable cooking.
1. Explore a range of cooking skills
Try to pick some books that you will be able to cook from almost every day as well as some that will really challenge you. This way you can learn new skills to impress guests but you can also get inspiration for daily family meals. You could also select some books that cover specific cooking skills such as baking or confectionery.
2. Choose books that meet your dietary needs
If there is something that you cannot eat, or that you choose not to eat, then try to avoid books that feature this heavily. If you eat a vegetarian or vegan diet there are now lots of books that cater specifically to you.
3. Look for books with great photography
You’ll get a better idea of what you are making if the books that you choose have great photography. Some even include step by step pictures to help you put the dishes together. You’ll also get plating inspiration which can help you to create beautiful plates for your guests. Even if you are buying books online, you can usually explore some of the pages to see the photography style.
4. Check out second hand books
You can sometimes find great prices on cookbooks in thrift stores. You’ll also find a wide range and some books that you might not find in stores today. Exploring older books can help you find extra inspiration. You could also find some great books to borrow in your family’s kitchen for your cookbook collection. If there is something that you love to have cooked for you, then they might be able to give you the secret!
5. Make sure you have storage
You don’t want to find that your kitchen is overrun with cookbooks! Ensure that you have shelving in place to keep your books on. A cupboard can help to keep them clean and a glass door could help you to see your books at a glance. If you haven’t got much room, just pick a few key books.
6. Pick a range of cuisines
Expand your culinary horizons and you’ll be able to explore the world from the comfort of your kitchen! Think about your favorite foods to eat on holiday and pick books based on trying to cook them at home. You could even try something completely new to add to your repertoire.
We hope that these tips will help you to put together a great selection of recipe books. Which books are essential to your cookbook collection? Let us know in the comments!
Monterey Jack: Everything You Need To Know
Today we continue with our exploration of cheeses from around the world with Monterey Jack. Read on to find out what this cheese tastes like and how to use it in your cooking.
What is Monterey Jack cheese?
Monterey Jack is an American semi-hard cow’s milk cheese which has a creamy, buttery flavor. It is very mild in taste. It has a slight firmness to it which resembles Cheddar.
How is Monterey Jack made?
Monterey Jack Cheese was made by the Mexican Franciscan friars of Monterey, California, in the 19th century. Then David Jack, a California businessman, decided that the market for the cheese could be developed. He produced the mild, white cheese that we now call Monterey Jack.
It is made by heating milk with cultures and adding rennet to separate the curds and whey. The curds are drained and pressed into the cheese. A rind forms and oil is added to keep it aging.
It is usually only aged for one month. It can be aged for longer to produce a cheese called Dry Jack. Chili peppers can be added to create a spicy cheese called Pepper Jack. It is mixed with Colby cheese to create Marble Cheese. This looks very striking on a cheeseboard and is sure to have your guests digging in.
How should I eat it?
Monterey Jack Cheese melts very well. This makes it great for grilled cheese or nachos. Its flavor also works very well with Spanish and Mexican dishes.
The texture also makes it suitable for grating over dishes. It is great with roasted chicken, burgers, and steaks. You could even put a piece of cheese into the middle of a homemade burger so that you taste melted cheese when you bite into it. You could also serve cubes or slices as part of a cheese platter. Try it with melons, grapes, pickled vegetables, and olives for contrast and great texture. We also love it sliced and put into sandwiches with bologna or ham.
It is also delicious grated into soups to add savoury flavor and creaminess. It works very well with bread baking recipes. Add it to tear and share monkey bread, flatbreads, or garlic bread. You could even add it to cornbread.
What should I drink with it?
It will go very well with a light white wine such as a Pinot Grigio, Riesling, or Chardonnay. You could even serve something fruity and flavorful such as a Sauvignon Blanc. Light red wines such as Pinot Noir or a Syrah would be excellent if you prefer red wine. It could be excellent with beer as well if you are enjoying a casual evening.
How do you like to eat Monterey Jack Cheese? Let us know in the comments!
Ways to Make the Most of Summer
For some of us, a hint of fall is already in the air. We’ve put together a list of ideas to help you make the most of the last weeks of summer.
1. Pack a picnic
Grab some cheese, ham and delicious bread and head out to your nearest park or lake. Enjoy some time in nature whilst eating a great meal. Pack some drinks to keep you hydrated or even some champagne for a celebratory picnic.
2. Go on a hike
Get your walking shoes on and go exploring. Whether you head to the top of your nearest hill or travel further afield to tackle a mountain, you’re sure to get a moment of calm perspective when you get out into nature.
3. Cook something new
Take the time to create a new dish to share with family and friends. They’ll appreciate the effort that you’ve put in and you’ll get to learn a new skill. If you’re not quite ready to tackle something from scratch then try one of our quick muffin mixes.
4. Explore your local museums and art galleries
Get some culture this summer or learn more about the history of your local area by taking advantage of the attractions near you. If it’s an especially hot day it’s also a great way to cool off in the air conditioning!
5. Head to a water park
Is there anything better than splashing around and rushing down slides on a hot summer day? Take your last opportunities for some thrill seeking before the leaves start to fall and winter approaches.
6. Play sports
Whether you love baseball, football or basketball, playing sports is a great way to keep fit in the summer. Get a group of friends together and have some fun. You can make it more competitive with a forfeit!
7. Recreate your summer camp
Pitch a tent, build a fire, and roast some marshmallows! Reminisce with friends about your summer camp memories. You could even hold a talent contest. If you never went to camp then now is the time to have water fights and midnight snacks before the end of summer.
8. Go to an open-air movie screening
Whether it’s a drive-in, a trendy rooftop, or simply your backyard, watching a movie outdoors is a great way to spend a late summer evening. Stock up on popcorn, gather your friends and neighbors, and watch something nostalgic that the whole family will love.
9. Read a book
How often do you wish that you read more? Sometimes it is hard to find the time to sit down and read. Make it a priority to enjoy a sunny day with a good book.
10. Do absolutely nothing!
Another activity that it’s very hard to make time for in our busy lives. Take an hour off, sit on the grass or lie around in a hammock, and just enjoy the feeling of having nowhere to be. Even if you only manage ten minutes of peace and quiet you’ll be thankful for it.
How are you making the most of the last days of summer? Let us know in the comments?
