Need assistance? Have a question? Check out the list of frequently asked questions below, and click on the question to view the answer. If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for, please feel free to contact us by e-mail at: info@veldhuizencheese.com
1) What does artisan mean?
It means the cheese is made using traditional handcrafted methods, with the artisan cheese maker involved in the process from start to finish.
2) What is farmstead?
Farmstead means the whole process takes place on the farm, at one location. The milk is from our herd of cows, the cheese is made in the cheese making room on the farm, and the cheese is aged to perfection in a special aging room on our farm.
3) Why do you make raw milk cheese?
Since the earliest records of cheese making, cheese has traditionally been crafted with raw milk. Real, raw milk contains numerous enzymes and beneficial components which we believe strengthen human health as well as make for a superior tasting cheese.
4) What do you mean by traditional farming methods?
We believe in sustainable agriculture and being good stewards of the land. We plan for year round grazing by planting crops such as oats, rye, sudan, alfalfa, and clover. No chemicals are used on our land. We also believe in using natural veterinary care for our cows which means never using antibiotics or artificial hormones.
We believe cows are made to eat grass, and thus, our cows are on the pasture 365 days a year. Green grass makes for healthy cows. The bulk of our cows’ diet is grass, which is supplemented with small amounts of corn.
It all starts with milk from our small herd of Holstein- Jersey cross cows. Raised here on the farm from calves, their health and nutrition are closely monitored. Healthy contented cows produce the best milk, which makes the best cheese.
5) What is the correct temperature to serve cheese?
Room temperature will bring out the best flavor in cheese. Remove the cheese from the refrigerator at least one hour before serving.
6) How long will my cheese keep in the refrigerator?
Your cheese will last for at least 2 months. Keep your cheese wrapped well- the greatest danger is letting your cheese dry out.
7) Where is the best place in the refrigerator to store cheese?
The best place for storing cheese is in one of the drawers in your refrigerator. It is a little warmer and more humid, which most cheese prefer.
8) What is the best way to wrap my cheese?
We wrap our cheese in a special cheese paper that allows the cheese to "breathe", but keeps it from drying out. Keep your cheese in this paper, and re-tape it after use.
9) What is the best way to melt cheese?
Cheese cut into small pieces or shredded promotes more even melting in a shorter amount of time. When you add cheese to any recipe, cook on low heat, stirring constantly. High heat will toughen cheese and make it stringy. When you are making a sauce with cheese in it, add cheese as the last ingredient and heat until just melted.
10) What is the best way to shred cheese?
Cheese will shred more easily if well-chilled; it can also be placed in the freezer for 30 minutes before shredding.
