Danish Blue (Danablu) 101: Nutrition, Benefits, How To Use, Buy, Store | Danish Blue: A Complete Guide

What is Danish Blue

Danish blue is a type of blue cheese that comes from Denmark. It’s made from cow’s milk and has a strong, sharp flavor with a creamy texture. The blue veins in the cheese are caused by mold, which gives it that distinct look and taste. It’s kind of salty and tangy, which some people love, while others might find it a bit intense. Danish blue is often crumbled over salads or spread on bread, but you can also just eat it on its own if you like bold flavors. It’s been around since the early 20th century, and is often compared to Roquefort, though it tends to be a little milder.

Other Names of Danish Blue

Here are a few other names people might use for Danish blue cheese:

1. Danablu – This is probably the most common alternative name. It’s what they call it in Denmark, and it’s the original name for the cheese.
2. Danish Roquefort – Some folks call it this because it’s similar to Roquefort cheese from France, though not as strong. It’s like a milder cousin.
3. Danish Blue Mold Cheese – This name points out the blue mold in the cheese, which gives it that signature flavor and look.
4. Blue Cheese from Denmark – A pretty straightforward name, but people will use it to describe Danish blue cheese when they’re keeping it simple.

Each name kind of points to the cheese’s origin or its style, but it all refers to that same bold, creamy blue cheese.

Nutritional Value of Danish Blue

The nutritional content of Danish Blue cheese can vary slightly depending on the specific brand and production methods. The values below are approximate and based on a standard serving size of 1 ounce (28 grams):

Nutrient	Amount per 1 ounce (28g)
Calories	100
Total Fat	8 grams
Saturated Fat	5 grams
Cholesterol	25 milligrams
Sodium	400 milligrams
Total Carbohydrates	0 grams
Dietary Fiber	0 grams
Sugars	0 grams
Protein	6 grams
Calcium	150 milligrams

Benefits of Danish Blue

Here are some benefits of eating Danish blue cheese:

1. Rich in calcium – Danish blue is packed with calcium, which is great for your bones and teeth. It helps keep them strong and healthy.
2. Good source of protein – It’s got a decent amount of protein, which your body needs to repair muscles and tissues. If you’re looking to add a little more protein to your meals, this cheese can help.
3. Contains probiotics – The mold in blue cheese has beneficial bacteria, or probiotics, that are good for your gut. They help improve digestion and boost your immune system.
4. High in vitamins – Danish blue has some essential vitamins like vitamin A and B12, which support your vision, immune health, and energy levels.
5. Boosts flavor – This isn’t a health benefit exactly, but Danish blue can really bring a dish to life with its bold taste. A little bit goes a long way in making your food more exciting.

While it’s delicious and offers some health perks, it’s still a good idea to eat it in moderation because it can be high in fat and salt.

Varieties of Danish Blue

Here are a few varieties or types of Danish blue cheese you might come across:

1. Classic Danablu – This is the traditional version, with that familiar strong flavor and creamy texture. It’s the one most people think of when they hear “Danish blue.”
2. Mild Danish Blue – For those who want a little less of the sharp, tangy taste, there’s a milder version. It’s still flavorful but not as intense.
3. Creamy Danish Blue – This type is softer and creamier, making it easier to spread on bread or crackers. It’s smoother and a bit less crumbly than the regular version.
4. Organic Danish Blue – Some brands make an organic version, which means the milk comes from cows that are raised without hormones or antibiotics. The flavor is about the same, but it’s made with more natural ingredients.
5. Aged Danish Blue – This version has been aged longer, so it has a more intense flavor. The older it is, the sharper and more robust the taste gets.

Each variety has its own little twist, so you can pick one that fits your taste.

What Does Danish Blue Taste Like

Danish blue has a pretty strong and bold taste. When you first bite into it, you’ll notice it’s a little salty, and then there’s this sharp, tangy flavor that kicks in from the blue mold. It’s kind of creamy, but at the same time, the mold gives it a bit of a bite. The flavor is intense, but it’s not overpowering like some other blue cheeses. There’s also a slight hint of sweetness that balances things out a bit. If you’re into cheeses with a lot of character, Danish blue will definitely grab your attention.

How Danish Blue is Made

Here’s a basic rundown of how Danish blue cheese is made:

1. Start with cow’s milk – Danish blue is made from cow’s milk. You need to heat the milk to around 85-90°F (about 30°C) to get it ready for the cheese-making process.
2. Add cultures and rennet – After the milk is warmed, cheese cultures and Penicillium Roqueforti (the blue mold) are added. The mold is what gives Danish blue its signature veins. Then, rennet is added to help the milk solidify and turn into curds.
3. Cut the curds – Once the milk has set into a thick curd, you cut it into small cubes. This helps release the whey, which is the liquid part of the milk.
4. Drain the whey – After cutting the curds, they’re left to sit so more whey can drain out. The curds are then gently stirred and heated a bit to release even more whey, making the curds firmer.
5. Mold and salt the cheese – The curds are placed into molds to shape the cheese. At this point, salt is added to the cheese. This not only flavors it but also helps to preserve it.
6. Pierce the cheese – Once the cheese has firmed up, it’s pierced with needles. This allows air to get inside, which helps the blue mold grow and spread throughout the cheese, creating those signature blue veins.
7. Age the cheese – Danish blue needs to be aged for at least 8-12 weeks, sometimes longer. During this time, the flavors develop, and the texture becomes creamy but still crumbly. The mold grows throughout, giving it that sharp, tangy taste.
8. Wrap and store – After aging, the cheese is wrapped up and ready to be sold or enjoyed. You can now slice it, crumble it, or use it in your favorite dishes!

Making Danish blue at home is a bit of a challenge, especially with the aging process, but it’s a cool way to see how that strong flavor comes to life.

How To Use Danish Blue

Here’s how you can use Danish blue cheese in different ways:

1. Crumble it on salads – Danish blue is perfect for adding a strong, tangy kick to your salads. Just crumble a little over greens, nuts, and fruits, like pears or apples, to balance the flavors.
2. Spread it on bread or crackers – Its creamy texture makes it great to spread on a slice of bread or your favorite cracker. It’s an easy way to snack or make a quick appetizer.
3. Melt it in sauces – You can melt Danish blue into a sauce for pasta or steak. It adds a rich, bold flavor that really stands out.
4. Use it on burgers – Adding Danish blue to a burger is a game changer. The strong, salty taste pairs well with the beef and makes the burger feel extra fancy.
5. Serve it on a cheese board – If you’re making a cheese board for a party, Danish blue will stand out with its bold flavor. Pair it with fruits like figs, grapes, or even a drizzle of honey to complement the sharpness.
6. Add it to pizza – Sprinkle some on your pizza before baking. It melts beautifully and adds a punch of flavor that goes well with other toppings like mushrooms or caramelized onions.
7. Mix it into dips – Blend it into a dip with some sour cream or yogurt for a flavorful blue cheese dip, perfect for veggies or wings.

It’s a versatile cheese, so don’t be afraid to get creative and see where its bold taste can fit in your meals.

Substitute for Danish Blue

Here are some good substitutes for Danish blue if you need a change or can’t find it:

1. Gorgonzola – This Italian blue cheese is a bit milder and creamier than Danish blue. It has a similar tangy flavor but not as sharp, making it a good option if you want something a little less intense.
2. Roquefort – Roquefort is a French blue cheese that’s stronger and more pungent than Danish blue. It’s made from sheep’s milk, so it has a unique taste, but it can work as a substitute if you’re looking for something bold.
3. Stilton – Stilton is an English blue cheese that’s crumbly and a bit more mellow. It’s slightly sweeter than Danish blue, but it still has that strong blue cheese flavor.
4. Maytag Blue – This American blue cheese is creamy and tangy, with a flavor that’s pretty close to Danish blue. It’s a great alternative if you want something similar but with a touch of sweetness.
5. Cabrales – From Spain, Cabrales is one of the strongest blue cheeses out there. If you love a really intense blue cheese flavor, this might be an interesting substitute, though it’s even sharper than Danish blue.
6. Bleu d’Auvergne – A French blue cheese that’s similar in creaminess but has a bit more of a mild, earthy flavor. It’s a good option if you want something less salty but still flavorful.

These cheeses all bring their own twist to the blue cheese family, so you can experiment and find which one suits your taste.

Where to Buy Danish Blue

Here are some places where you can buy Danish blue cheese:

1. Grocery stores – Many large grocery chains, like Whole Foods, Kroger, or Safeway, carry Danish blue in their cheese section. It’s usually in the specialty cheese area near other imported cheeses.
2. Online retailers – You can easily find Danish blue on websites like Amazon or specialty food sites like Murray’s Cheese or iGourmet. They’ll ship it right to your door, which is handy if you can’t find it locally.
3. Cheese shops – If you have a local cheese shop or deli in your area, they often carry a variety of imported cheeses, including Danish blue. Plus, you can ask for recommendations or sample it before buying.
4. Farmers markets – Some farmers markets feature vendors that specialize in cheese. You might find Danish blue there, or at least a good local blue cheese that’s similar.
5. International markets – If there’s a European or international grocery store nearby, check there. They often have a good selection of cheeses from different countries, including Denmark.
6. Big box stores – Places like Costco or Sam’s Club sometimes carry Danish blue in larger quantities, so if you need a lot of it or want a good deal, these stores can be a good option.

These options make it pretty easy to find Danish blue, whether you prefer to shop in person or online.

How To Store Danish Blue

Here’s how you can store Danish blue cheese to keep it fresh:

1. Wrap it properly – Danish blue is a delicate cheese, and proper wrapping is key to preserving it. First, use wax paper or parchment paper, as these materials allow the cheese to breathe, which helps prevent it from getting too wet or mushy. After wrapping, you can put the cheese in a plastic bag or airtight container to further protect it from drying out. Avoid using plastic wrap alone because it traps moisture inside, which can make the cheese soggy or cause it to spoil quicker.
2. Fridge storage – The best place to store Danish blue is in the refrigerator. Specifically, you want to store it in a part of the fridge where the temperature is between 34°F and 38°F (1°C to 3°C). If your fridge has a dedicated cheese drawer or a humidity-controlled compartment, use that. Cheese needs a slightly higher humidity to stay in good condition, and a cheese drawer typically offers the right environment for that. If you don’t have a cheese drawer, a regular fridge shelf works, but make sure the cheese is well-wrapped.
3. Moisture control – Mold is what makes blue cheese taste so special, but too much moisture can ruin it. After wrapping it, if you notice water collecting inside the container, carefully wipe it away with a paper towel or cloth. You want to avoid excess moisture because it can cause unwanted bacteria or even mold to form on the outside, which could lead to the cheese spoiling.
4. Avoid strong smells – Blue cheese can pick up odors from other foods, so try to store it away from things like onions, garlic, or other pungent foods in your fridge. These strong smells can seep into the cheese and affect its flavor. You could also keep the cheese in a sealed container or zip-lock bag to avoid this, but make sure it’s breathable to prevent the cheese from sweating inside.
5. Freezing for longer storage – If you can’t finish the Danish blue before it starts to go bad, freezing is an option, but it does change the texture. The freezing process tends to make the cheese more crumbly, so it may not be as creamy or easy to slice once thawed. However, frozen Danish blue still works well in cooked dishes, like sauces, soups, or casseroles. Just wrap it tightly in wax paper and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. To thaw, let it sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
6. Check for freshness – Danish blue is best eaten within a couple of weeks after opening. While the cheese will continue to age in your fridge, you want to be careful with how long you keep it. If you notice any unusual changes in color (other than the typical blue veining) or if the smell becomes very strong, that’s a sign it’s time to toss it. A slightly tangy smell is normal for blue cheese, but if it starts to smell sour or rotten, it’s not safe to eat anymore.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure your Danish blue stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Danish Blue