Hey there, cheese lovers! Let’s face it, a world without cheese would be a sad one. Today, we’re diving into the art of freezing one of my personal favorites: Reblochon cheese. This French delight hails from the Alps and brings a creamy, nutty goodness to your palate that is simply unforgettable.
But what if you have more Reblochon than you can consume before its “best by” date? Can you freeze Reblochon cheese to savor its richness another day? Stick around as we get into the nitty-gritty of freezing this cheese-tastic treat!
Can You Freeze Reblochon Cheese?
Well, you’re in luck! The short answer is: Yes, you can. However, it’s not as straightforward as tossing the cheese wheel into the freezer and calling it a day.
Freezing can slightly alter the texture and flavor of Reblochon, but if done correctly, you can still enjoy its lusciousness in various dishes or even on its own.
Let’s get into how you can freeze it while maintaining its character as much as possible.
How To Freeze Reblochon Cheese?
Prepping the Cheese
- Portion Control: If you have a whole wheel, consider cutting it into more manageable portions. The size depends on how you plan to use it later.
- Wrap It Up: Use parchment paper to wrap each portion tightly. You want to minimize the exposure to air to preserve its texture and flavor.
- Seal the Deal: Place the wrapped portions in a zip-top bag. For extra protection, use a vacuum sealer if you have one.
Storage
- Label and Date: Always remember to label and date your cheese before putting it in the freezer. You’ll thank yourself later.
- Temperature Check: Make sure your freezer is set at 0°F (-18°C) or lower for optimal results.
Quick Tips
- If you plan to use the cheese in cooked dishes, you can pre-grate it before freezing. This makes it super convenient to toss it straight into your recipe later on.
What to Avoid
- Don’t Freeze an Open Wheel: If you’ve already cut into it, don’t freeze the entire wheel. Cut portions instead.
- Say No to Plastic Wrap: Plastic wrap tends to stick to the cheese, pulling away some of its goodness when you remove it.
How Long Can You Freeze Reblochon Cheese?
When it comes to freezing Reblochon, time is both your friend and enemy. Ideally, you should aim to consume the frozen Reblochon within 3 to 6 months.
While you can technically keep it frozen beyond that, you’re likely to see a drop in quality. The longer it stays in the freezer, the more its texture and flavor will degrade. That’s not what we want for our beloved cheese, is it?
How To Defrost Reblochon Cheese?
The Fridge Method
- 24-Hour Rule: Take out the portion of Reblochon you want to use and let it thaw in the fridge for 24 hours.
- Unwrap and Air: After it’s thawed, unwrap the cheese and let it breathe for about an hour before you dive in.
The Quick Method
- Warm Water Bath: If you’re pressed for time, submerge the sealed cheese bag in a bowl of warm water for a couple of hours.
- Air It Out: Just like with the fridge method, give it some air time for about an hour before you indulge.
What Not To Do
- No Microwaving: Please, for the love of all things cheesy, do not use the microwave to defrost Reblochon. It will mess with its texture and flavor.
Do Reblochon Cheese Freeze Well?
Freezing Reblochon isn’t the same as enjoying it fresh; that’s the straight-up truth.
However, if done with care, you’ll find that frozen and thawed Reblochon still brings a lot to the table, especially if you’re using it in cooked dishes like tartiflette or a creamy pasta sauce.
It will still be nutty and delicious but may lose some of its creaminess and develop a slightly crumbly texture.
Can You Refreeze Reblochon Cheese?
Ah, the age-old question! Can you refreeze what has already been frozen? With Reblochon, the answer is not recommended.
Refreezing compromises the texture even more and can introduce freezer burn.
If you’ve thawed more Reblochon than you can use, try to find creative ways to use it up rather than sending it back into the icy depths.
Creative Ways to Use Reblochon Cheese
Alright, so you’ve successfully frozen and thawed your Reblochon, but now what? Don’t fret! The possibilities are endless. Let’s get those creative juices flowing:
- Tartiflette: This is a classic French dish that calls for Reblochon. Imagine potatoes, bacon, and onions all coming together under a gooey layer of this cheese. Need I say more?
- Cheesy Dip: Melt it down with a splash of white wine and some garlic for an irresistible dip. Perfect for game day or just because.
- Stuffed Veggies: Hollow out some bell peppers or zucchinis and stuff them with a mixture of Reblochon, breadcrumbs, and herbs. Bake until everything is melty and golden.
- Reblochon Pizza: Forget mozzarella! Top your pizza with slices of Reblochon, some mushrooms, and a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet experience.
- Fondue: Who doesn’t love fondue? Reblochon pairs beautifully with Gruyère and Emmental for a three-cheese fondue that’s simply divine.
- Grilled Cheese 2.0: Take your grilled cheese game to the next level. Swap out the usual suspects for Reblochon and add some caramelized onions. Your taste buds will thank you.
Conclusion
There you have it, my fellow cheese aficionados! Freezing Reblochon cheese is definitely doable, and while it might not be quite as heavenly as when it’s fresh, it’s certainly better than letting it go to waste.
Whether you’re enjoying it thawed on a cheeseboard or melted into a mouth-watering dish, this guide should help you make the most of your frozen Reblochon. Go ahead, give it a try and let your culinary imagination run wild!
FAQ
Can You Freeze Reblochon Cheese Rind?
The rind of Reblochon cheese is perfectly edible and can be frozen along with the rest of the cheese. However, be aware that its texture might be slightly altered after thawing.
How Do I Know if My Frozen Reblochon Has Gone Bad?
Signs of spoilage include an off smell, visible mold that wasn’t there before freezing, or a dried-out appearance. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the cheese.
Can I Use Frozen Reblochon Directly from the Freezer in Cooking?
Yes, you can! If you’re planning to melt the cheese, you can grate it while it’s still frozen and toss it directly into your dish.
Will Freezing Reblochon Cheese Affect Its Nutritional Value?
Freezing doesn’t significantly affect the nutritional content of Reblochon cheese. However, its texture and flavor may change a bit.
How Can I Prevent Freezer Burn on My Reblochon Cheese?
To prevent freezer burn, make sure to wrap the cheese tightly in parchment paper and then seal it in a zip-top bag. Removing as much air as possible is key.
Can I Freeze Reblochon Cheese That Has Already Been Melted?
It’s not recommended to freeze Reblochon that has already been melted. The texture and quality will be heavily compromised.
