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

What is Danish Blue

Danish Blue, also known as Danablu, is a creamy and semi-soft cheese with distinctive blue veins. Originating from Denmark, this cheese is made from cow’s milk and is famous for its strong and tangy taste, along with its unique smell.

The cheese gets its blue veins from a mold called Penicillium roqueforti. It is aged for several weeks to develop this mold and to get its special flavor and texture. Because of its crumbly texture and rich taste, Danish Blue is a popular choice for salads, spreads, and cheese platters.

While there are many types of blue cheese available worldwide, Danish Blue stands out with its unique characteristics that come from its production in Denmark.

Other Names of Danish Blue

Danish Blue cheese is also known by a few other names. Here are some alternative names for this type of blue cheese:

1. Danablu: This name is often used interchangeably with Danish Blue, and it’s a combination of “Danmark” (Denmark in Danish) and “blu” from blue.
2. Danish Blue Castello: Castello is a specific brand of Danish Blue that is well-known. The name Castello is sometimes used to refer to this type of cheese.
3. Danish Creamy Blue: This name emphasizes the creamy texture of the cheese.

These names might be used by different producers or regions, but they generally refer to the same style of blue cheese originating from Denmark.

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

Packed with Protein: Danish Blue cheese is a great source of protein, which is important for muscle health and repair.

Rich in Calcium: This cheese is also rich in calcium, which helps keep our bones and teeth strong and supports nerve and muscle functions.

Full of Vitamins and Minerals: Danish Blue cheese provides us with vitamins like B12, minerals like phosphorus and zinc.

Good for Your Gut: Similar to other fermented foods, Danish Blue cheese might contain probiotics, the good bacteria that can help with digestion and gut health.

Adds Flavor to Your Meals: Danish Blue cheese can enhance the taste of salads, sandwiches, and other dishes, making them more flavorful.

However, it’s important to remember that blue cheese is high in fat and sodium. It’s best to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you have specific dietary needs or health issues like lactose intolerance or high blood pressure, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Varieties of Danish Blue

Danish Blue cheese comes in various styles and is produced by different brands. Here are some popular varieties and brands:

Danablu: This is a common name used for traditional Danish Blue cheese made in Denmark.

Castello Danish Blue: Castello is a popular brand known for its creamy and flavorful Danish Blue cheese.

Saga Blue: Saga Blue offers a Danish Blue cheese with a creamy texture and a milder blue cheese taste.

King Christian IX: Named after the Danish monarch Christian IX, this Danish Blue cheese is famous for its creamy texture and distinctive blue veins.

It’s worth noting that these varieties can differ slightly in taste, texture, and how they are made. Some producers might age their Danish Blue cheese for various lengths of time, which can result in differences in flavor. When choosing a Danish Blue cheese, personal preference is important since the taste can vary from mild to strong depending on the brand and aging process.

What Does Danish Blue Taste Like

Danish Blue cheese has a distinctive taste that sets it apart from other cheeses. Here are some characteristics of the taste of Danish Blue:

Sharp and Bold: Danish Blue has a strong and sharp taste, thanks to the blue veins in the cheese that give it a tangy and robust flavor.

Creamy and Crumbly: Despite its crumbly texture, Danish Blue can also be creamy, which adds to its unique mouthfeel.

Salty: Like many blue cheeses, Danish Blue has a salty taste. This saltiness, combined with its sharpness, gives it a delicious savory flavor.

Earthy Undertones: Some types of Danish Blue cheese might have hints of earthy or mushroom-like flavors, adding depth to its taste.

Subtle Sweetness: Alongside its bold and sharp flavors, Danish Blue can also have a gentle sweetness that helps balance out the strong taste of the blue veins.

The strength of the flavor can differ depending on the brand, type, and aging process of the Danish Blue cheese. Some people might find its taste robust, while others might perceive it as milder, based on their sensitivity to strong flavors. Danish Blue is often enjoyed by itself or paired with fruits, nuts, and bread. Its bold taste also makes it a favorite for salads and as an ingredient in various dishes.

How Danish Blue is Made

Danish Blue cheese is made through a process similar to the production of other blue cheeses. Here is a general overview of how Danish Blue is typically made:

1. Choosing the Milk: Danish Blue cheese is crafted from cow’s milk. The type and quality of the milk play a big role in the cheese’s final taste and texture.
2. Starting the Process:
3. Heating and Coagulation: The milk is warmed, and then specific starter cultures and rennet are added. The starter cultures give the cheese its unique flavor and acidity, while rennet helps form the curds.
4. Forming Curds: As the milk starts to thicken and coagulate, curds begin to form. These curds are then cut into smaller pieces to let the whey drain out.
5. Shaping the Cheese:
6. Draining and Pressing: The curds are left to drain and are often pressed to remove even more whey. This step helps give the cheese its shape and reduces excess moisture.
7. Adding Salt: After pressing, the cheese is sprinkled with salt. Salt not only enhances the flavor but also helps in controlling the growth of unwanted bacteria and molds, while encouraging the growth of the good ones.
8. Introducing the Blue Mold: The unique blue veins in Danish Blue cheese come from a mold called Penicillium roqueforti. This mold is added to the cheese in different ways, like mixing it with the curds or injecting it.
9. Aging the Cheese: The cheese is then left to age in a controlled environment. During this time, which can be several weeks to months, the blue mold develops, creating the distinctive blue veins and giving the cheese its unique flavor.
10. Checking the Quality: Throughout the whole process, there are strict checks to ensure the cheese tastes, feels, and looks just right. Different producers might have their own methods or extra steps, but one thing is consistent: making Danish Blue cheese, like other blue cheeses, requires skill and attention to detail to get that perfect taste and texture.

How To Use Danish Blue

Danish Blue cheese is versatile and can be used in various ways to enhance the flavor of different dishes. Here are some popular ways to use Danish Blue:

1. Cheese Platter: Serve Danish Blue on a cheese platter alongside other cheeses, fruits (such as grapes and sliced apples), nuts, and crackers. This is a classic and elegant way to enjoy the cheese.
2. Salads: Crumble Danish Blue over salads to add a rich and tangy flavor. It pairs well with greens like arugula or mixed lettuces, as well as fruits, nuts, and vinaigrette dressings.
3. Sandwiches and Wraps: Add slices or crumbles of Danish Blue to sandwiches or wraps for an extra burst of flavor. It goes particularly well with ingredients like turkey, ham, or roast beef.
4. Appetizers: Use Danish Blue in appetizers such as stuffed mushrooms, bruschetta, or crostini. Its bold flavor can add depth to various hors d’oeuvres.
5. Pizza Topping: Sprinkle crumbled Danish Blue on top of a pizza before baking. It pairs well with other ingredients like caramelized onions, figs, or prosciutto.
6. Pasta Dishes: Incorporate Danish Blue into pasta dishes for a creamy and flavorful sauce. It works well with pasta varieties like penne or gnocchi.
7. Sauces and Dips: Melt Danish Blue into a sauce for steak or chicken dishes. You can also use it to create a flavorful blue cheese dip for vegetables or chips.
8. Baked Goods: Incorporate Danish Blue into savory baked goods such as scones, muffins, or biscuits for a unique twist.
9. Stuffed Meats: Stuff chicken breasts with Danish Blue for a savory and cheesy filling.
10. Pairing with Desserts: Danish Blue can be paired with sweet components like honey, jams, or dried fruits for a delightful cheese and dessert combination.

When using Danish Blue, consider the overall balance of flavors in your dish, as it has a bold and tangy taste. Experiment with different combinations to discover your favorite ways to enjoy this distinctive blue cheese.

Substitute for Danish Blue

If you need a substitute for Danish Blue cheese in a recipe, you can choose from a variety of other blue cheeses or even different types of cheeses with distinct flavors. Here are some alternatives:

1. Roquefort: Roquefort is a French blue cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has a strong flavor and crumbly texture, similar to Danish Blue.
2. Gorgonzola: Gorgonzola is an Italian blue cheese made from cow’s milk. It comes in two varieties: Dolce (mild and creamy) and Piccante (stronger and crumbly). Choose the type that best suits your recipe.
3. Stilton: Stilton is a British blue cheese that is rich, creamy, and crumbly. It has a milder flavor compared to Danish Blue but is still a good blue cheese alternative.
4. Cambozola: Cambozola is a German cheese that combines the creamy texture of Camembert with the blue mold of Gorgonzola. It has a milder blue flavor and is softer than Danish Blue.
5. Bleu d’Auvergne: This is a French blue cheese with a creamy texture and a robust, tangy flavor. It is less crumbly than Danish Blue but still provides a strong blue cheese taste.
6. Maytag Blue: An American blue cheese, Maytag Blue has a tangy flavor and crumbly texture, making it a good substitute for Danish Blue.
7. Cabrales: This Spanish blue cheese is often made from a blend of cow, goat, and sheep milk. It has a strong and spicy flavor.
8. Fourme d’Ambert: A French blue cheese with a creamy texture and a milder flavor compared to some other blue cheeses.

When substituting, consider the intensity of flavor and texture required for your recipe. Keep in mind that each blue cheese has its unique characteristics, so the choice may depend on personal preference and the specific dish you are preparing.

Where to Buy Danish Blue

Danish Blue cheese is commonly available in well-stocked supermarkets, specialty cheese shops, and online retailers. Here are some places where you can buy Danish Blue:

1. Supermarkets: Many larger supermarkets or grocery stores carry a selection of specialty cheeses, including Danish Blue. Check the cheese section or inquire at the deli counter.
2. Cheese Shops: Specialty cheese shops or gourmet food stores are likely to have a variety of Danish Blue cheeses. These shops often have knowledgeable staff who can provide information and recommendations.
3. Online Retailers: Numerous online retailers specialize in selling gourmet and specialty foods, including cheeses. You can find Danish Blue cheese on websites that offer a diverse selection of cheeses and ship them to your location.
4. Farmers’ Markets: Some farmers’ markets or local food markets may have specialty cheese vendors who offer Danish Blue and other artisanal cheeses.
5. Cheesemongers: Specialty cheesemongers or cheese affineurs may operate standalone shops or work within larger markets. They often curate a selection of high-quality cheeses, and Danish Blue may be among their offerings.
6. Club Stores: Some warehouse or club stores that have a significant cheese selection may carry Danish Blue, especially in larger metropolitan areas.
7. Wine and Cheese Shops: Stores that specialize in wine and cheese pairings may carry a variety of artisanal cheeses, including Danish Blue.

Before purchasing, consider checking with local retailers to see if they have Danish Blue in stock or can order it for you. Additionally, online platforms can provide a convenient way to explore different varieties and have Danish Blue delivered to your doorstep.

How To Store Danish Blue

Proper storage is key to keeping Danish Blue cheese fresh and tasty. Here are some easy tips to help you store it correctly:

Keep it Cold: Store Danish Blue cheese in the fridge. It’s best to place it in the dairy or cheese compartment, as these areas often have a bit more humidity than the rest of the fridge.

Wrap it Right:

• Cheese Paper or Parchment Paper: Wrap the Danish Blue in cheese paper or parchment paper. These allow the cheese to breathe while protecting it from getting too moist or picking up other fridge smells.
• Plastic Wrap or Foil: If you don’t have cheese paper, you can use plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure to wrap the cheese well to keep air out, which can dry out the cheese or change its flavor.

Use an Airtight Container: You can also keep Danish Blue in an airtight container. This helps the cheese retain its moisture and stops it from taking on other food smells from the fridge.

Keep it Separate: Store Danish Blue away from strong-smelling foods. Cheese can easily pick up odors, which can affect its taste.

Check the Temperature: Keep your fridge at a temperature between 34°F to 38°F (1°C to 3°C) for the best cheese storage conditions.

Don’t Freeze It: Avoid freezing Danish Blue or other soft and semi-soft cheeses. Freezing can change the texture and taste of the cheese.

Serve at the Right Temperature: Before enjoying, let the Danish Blue cheese sit out at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. This helps bring out its full flavor and texture.

By following these storage tips, you can help extend the shelf life of your Danish Blue cheese and ensure it stays flavorful and fresh. Keep in mind, like all cheeses, Danish Blue is perishable, so it’s best to enjoy it within a reasonable time for the best taste and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Danish Blue