What is Fontina Cheese
Fontina cheese is this delicious, semi-soft cheese that’s super creamy and just a bit nutty in flavor. It originally comes from Italy, and it’s actually been around for hundreds of years! The classic Fontina, the one they make in Italy, has a kind of strong, earthy taste, especially the one from the Aosta Valley in Italy. But now, you can find Fontina made in other places too, like the U.S. and Denmark, and those versions are usually a little milder.
I first tried Fontina when I was making a fancy grilled cheese for my kids (or at least I thought it was fancy at the time!). I wanted something different than the usual cheddar or American cheese, and boy, it did not disappoint! Fontina melts really well, so it was perfect for that gooey, stretchy cheese pull. My daughter even said it tasted “like grown-up cheese” – whatever that means!
Besides sandwiches, Fontina is amazing in a lot of dishes. You can melt it on pizza, use it in pasta, or even in a creamy cheese sauce. If you’re looking for something a bit special to try in your cooking, give Fontina a go. It’s mild enough that the kids will probably love it, but it’s got enough flavor to make the adults happy too.
Other Names of Fontina Cheese
Here are some other names and varieties of Fontina cheese:
- Fontina Valdostana: This is the original Fontina cheese made in the Aosta Valley of Italy. It’s protected by a special label, which means it has to meet strict standards to be called this name.
- Fontinella: This is a type of Fontina cheese made in the United States. It’s similar in flavor but often a bit firmer and less creamy than its Italian counterpart.
- Fontina di Montagna: This name refers to Fontina cheese that is made from milk produced in the mountainous regions. It usually has a more intense flavor due to the rich grasses that cows graze on.
- Fondue cheese: While not a specific name, Fontina is often called “fondue cheese” because it’s famous for being used in melting dishes, especially Swiss fondue.
- Fior di Latte: This term means “flower of milk” in Italian and can refer to soft cheeses made from cow’s milk. Sometimes, it’s used to describe creamy cheeses that have a similar texture to Fontina.
These names and varieties show how Fontina cheese can vary based on where it’s made and how it’s prepared, but they all share that delicious creamy flavor.
Benefits of Fontina Cheese
Here are some benefits of Fontina cheese that make it a great choice for your diet:
- Rich in Nutrients: Fontina cheese is packed with essential nutrients like calcium, which is super important for strong bones and teeth. It also contains protein, which helps build and repair tissues in your body.
- Good Source of Healthy Fats: This cheese has a good amount of healthy fats that can provide energy. Unlike some processed cheeses, Fontina contains natural fats that can be beneficial in moderation.
- Supports Digestive Health: Because Fontina is a fermented cheese, it contains probiotics. These are good bacteria that can help support your digestive system and keep your gut healthy.
- Versatile Ingredient: Fontina is really easy to use in cooking. Whether you melt it in a pasta dish, use it in fondue, or add it to a salad, it can enhance the flavors of many meals, making it a fun cheese to experiment with in the kitchen.
- Boosts Flavor: The creamy and nutty taste of Fontina can add a lot of flavor to dishes without needing a ton of seasoning. This can be great for those who want to enjoy tasty food without using too much salt or other flavorings.
- Great for Snacking: Fontina pairs well with fruits, nuts, and crackers, making it a delicious option for a healthy snack. It can satisfy your cravings while providing some nutrients at the same time.
Overall, Fontina cheese offers many benefits that can fit nicely into a balanced diet, and it can make your meals even more enjoyable.
For more info, click here.
Varieties of Fontina Cheese
Here are some interesting varieties of Fontina cheese that you might come across:
- Fontina Valdostana: This is the original Fontina cheese from the Aosta Valley in Italy. It’s made from unpasteurized cow’s milk and has a rich, creamy texture with a nutty flavor. It’s often considered the best version and is protected by a special label, so you know it’s the real deal!
- Fontina d’Alpeggio: This variety comes from high-altitude farms in the Alps. The cows that produce the milk graze on rich, mountain grasses, which gives this cheese a more intense flavor. It’s usually aged longer than regular Fontina, resulting in a firmer texture.
- Fontinella: Made in the United States, Fontinella is a firmer version of Fontina cheese. It has a similar mild flavor but can be a bit tangier. It melts well, making it a popular choice for cooking, especially in dishes like casseroles.
- Fontina di Montagna: This variety is also made from milk produced in mountainous regions. It tends to have a stronger flavor due to the unique diets of the cows. The cheese can be a bit more crumbly compared to its creamier counterparts.
- Smoked Fontina: Some varieties of Fontina are smoked, which adds a rich, smoky flavor to the cheese. This is a fun twist that can be great for adding depth to your dishes or enjoying on its own.
- Aged Fontina: As Fontina ages, it develops a sharper and more complex flavor. Aged Fontina can be more crumbly and less creamy than fresh varieties, making it perfect for grating over pasta or salads.
Each of these varieties brings its own special characteristics, making Fontina a fun cheese to explore in different recipes or on a cheese board.
What Does Fontina Cheese Taste Like
Fontina cheese has a unique taste that’s really enjoyable. It has a mild, nutty flavor that’s a bit sweet, which makes it pleasant for most people. The texture is creamy and smooth, especially when it’s melted, giving it a rich mouthfeel. If you try it fresh, you might notice hints of grass and earthiness, thanks to the cows that graze on natural pastures. As it ages, the flavor can become more robust and slightly tangy, adding even more depth. Overall, Fontina cheese is versatile enough to use in many dishes, but it’s also tasty on its own, whether you’re snacking or pairing it with fruits and nuts. It’s like a little burst of flavor that can elevate your meal.
How Fontina Cheese is Made
Fontina cheese has this rich, nutty, and kinda earthy flavor that’s super satisfying. When you first taste it, you get this buttery smoothness that’s almost creamy but not too heavy. It’s got this nice tang too – not too sharp, but enough to make it interesting. Some people say it’s a bit “mushroomy” or even slightly “woodsy,” which sounds weird but really just means it’s got a deep, cozy flavor.
I first tried Fontina when I was making what I thought was a “fancy” grilled cheese for my kids! I wanted to switch it up from the usual cheddar or American cheese, and wow, did Fontina not disappoint.
Once I melted it on that sandwich, the whole thing tasted almost gourmet (even if the kids just saw it as an extra-yummy grilled cheese!). And the best part? Fontina melts perfectly, so it’s amazing on pizza, in pasta, or anything that calls for gooey cheese. If you haven’t tried it yet, give it a go—it’s fancy enough to feel special but still friendly enough for everyone to love.
How To Use Fontina Cheese
Here are some great ways to use Fontina cheese that can really enhance your meals:
- Melt it in Dishes: Fontina melts beautifully, making it perfect for creamy pasta dishes or risottos. Just add it at the end of cooking to let it melt into a gooey, delicious sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Make Fondue: One of the best uses for Fontina is in fondue. You can melt it with some white wine and garlic for a tasty dip. Just serve it with bread, veggies, or even fruits for dipping. It’s a fun dish to share with friends and family!
- Grate it Over Salads: A sprinkle of grated Fontina can add a nice touch to salads. Its creamy texture and mild flavor complement greens, nuts, and fruits, giving your salad an extra boost.
- Add it to Sandwiches: Fontina cheese works great in sandwiches or paninis. Whether melted or sliced, it adds a rich flavor that pairs well with meats, veggies, and spreads.
- Use it in Soups: Adding Fontina to soups, especially creamy or potato-based ones, can elevate the taste. Just stir in some cheese before serving for a comforting, cheesy finish.
- Bake with it: You can use Fontina in baked dishes like casseroles or gratins. Its melting quality makes it perfect for creating a bubbly, cheesy top that everyone loves.
- Serve it on a Cheese Board: Fontina is also great on a cheese board. Pair it with fruits, nuts, and some crackers for a lovely appetizer. The nutty flavor and creamy texture make it a delightful addition.
- Stuff it in Vegetables: If you enjoy cooking veggies, try stuffing them with Fontina cheese! Stuffed mushrooms or bell peppers with a mix of Fontina and herbs can be a tasty side dish or snack.
Using Fontina cheese can really make your dishes pop, whether you’re cooking, snacking, or entertaining. It’s a versatile cheese that’s fun to experiment with in the kitchen.
Substitute for Fontina Cheese
If you can’t find Fontina cheese or need a substitute, here are some great options that can work well in your recipes:
- Gruyère: This Swiss cheese is a fantastic substitute for Fontina. It has a similar creamy texture and melts beautifully, making it perfect for dishes like fondue and creamy pastas. Plus, it has a slightly nutty flavor that resembles Fontina.
- Emmental: Another Swiss cheese, Emmental has a mild flavor with a bit of sweetness. It melts nicely and can be used in place of Fontina in soups, sandwiches, or cheese boards. Its holes might even remind you of traditional Fontina!
- Havarti: This Danish cheese is smooth and buttery, making it a great alternative. Havarti melts well and has a mild taste, so it works nicely in baked dishes, sandwiches, or even on a cheese platter.
- Mozzarella: While it has a milder flavor compared to Fontina, mozzarella is a good option for melting. It’s especially great in pizzas, pasta, or casseroles. If you want a creamier dish, try using fresh mozzarella for an added richness.
- Colby Jack: This cheese combines Colby and Monterey Jack, giving it a mild, creamy flavor. It melts well and can be used in many of the same dishes as Fontina, like quesadillas, nachos, or mac and cheese.
- Raclette: This semi-soft cheese has a strong flavor and melts beautifully. It’s great for melting over potatoes or veggies, similar to how you might use Fontina in fondue or baked dishes.
- Cream Cheese: If you’re looking for a creamy texture rather than a strong flavor, cream cheese can work in some recipes. It’s especially good in sauces or dips where you want that smoothness, but it won’t provide the same taste as Fontina.
These substitutes can help you create delicious meals without Fontina cheese. They each bring their own unique flavors and textures, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find the one that works best for your dish.
Where to Buy Fontina Cheese
If you’re looking to buy Fontina cheese, there are several great places you can check out:
- Grocery Stores: Many larger grocery stores have a cheese section where you can find Fontina. Look for it in the deli or specialty cheese aisle. Stores like Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s often carry a good selection of cheeses, including Fontina.
- Cheese Shops: Specialty cheese shops are fantastic places to find high-quality Fontina cheese. The staff at these shops usually know a lot about different cheeses and can help you choose the right one for your needs. Plus, you might find different varieties that you wouldn’t see in regular stores!
- Farmers’ Markets: Sometimes, local cheese makers sell Fontina at farmers’ markets. This is a great way to support local businesses and try fresh, artisanal cheeses. You can also ask the makers questions about how their cheese is made!
- Online Retailers: If you can’t find Fontina in stores, you can always check online. Websites like Murray’s Cheese, iGourmet, or even Amazon often sell Fontina cheese. Just make sure to check the shipping details, as cheese needs to be kept cold during transport.
- Delis and Specialty Food Stores: Some delis and specialty food stores might have Fontina in their cheese selection. These places often focus on high-quality and gourmet foods, so you might find some unique varieties.
- Italian Markets: If you have any Italian grocery stores nearby, they are likely to carry Fontina cheese since it’s a staple in Italian cooking. You might even find some imported varieties that can give you that authentic taste.
- Big Box Stores: Some warehouse stores like Costco or Sam’s Club may carry Fontina cheese in larger quantities. If you’re a cheese lover or plan on using it a lot, this could be a great option.
No matter where you choose to shop, just remember to check the expiration date and look for a fresh, creamy texture. Enjoy your Fontina cheese adventure.
How To Store Fontina Cheese
Storing Fontina cheese properly is important to keep it fresh and tasty. Here are some tips on how to do it right:
1. Keep It Wrapped
- Original Packaging: When you first purchase Fontina cheese, it often comes wrapped in special cheese paper or plastic. These materials are designed to help the cheese breathe while keeping moisture in. As a rule of thumb, keep it in the original packaging until you need to use it.
- Re-wrapping: If you’ve unwrapped it, you can wrap it again in wax paper or parchment paper. These materials are breathable, preventing moisture buildup and allowing the cheese to maintain its texture. After wrapping, you can also place it inside a plastic bag or container for extra protection.
2. Use Plastic Wrap
- If you’re worried about the cheese drying out, you can follow the wax paper with a layer of plastic wrap. This creates a better seal and helps prevent the cheese from absorbing any strong odors from the fridge. Just remember not to wrap it too tightly—Fontina needs a bit of air circulation to stay fresh.
3. Store in the Fridge
- Ideal Temperature: Fontina should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 34°F to 38°F (1°C to 3°C). The cheese drawer or the middle shelf of the fridge is usually the best place, as these areas maintain a more consistent temperature.
- Avoiding the Door: Don’t store Fontina in the fridge door. The temperature fluctuates too much there, which can affect the cheese’s quality.
4. Avoid Moisture
- Dry Environment: Excess moisture can lead to mold growth. Make sure the cheese stays dry. If you notice any condensation on the inside of the wrapping, it’s a good idea to replace it with fresh wax paper to keep the moisture in check.
- Humidity Control: Ideally, you want to keep Fontina in a humid environment but not too humid. Cheese humidity is important for flavor, but too much moisture can spoil it quickly. A humidity-controlled cheese box can help maintain that perfect balance.
5. Use a Cheese Box or Container
- Cheese Storage Containers: If you have a cheese dome or specialized cheese storage container, use it! These containers usually have ventilation holes, allowing the cheese to breathe while protecting it from odors and contaminants.
- Homemade Alternatives: If you don’t have a cheese box, you can create your own by placing the wrapped cheese in a container with a small damp paper towel. This helps maintain moisture levels without making the cheese soggy.
6. Check for Freshness
- Inspect Regularly: Regularly check the cheese for signs of spoilage. Mold can sometimes form, especially if the cheese has been stored too long or in the wrong conditions. If you see a small amount of surface mold, you can cut it off, making sure to slice off at least an inch around the moldy area. However, if the cheese smells off or has large patches of mold, it’s best to discard it.
- Texture and Smell: Fresh Fontina should have a pleasant, creamy aroma. If it starts to smell sour or has a gritty texture, it’s a sign that it’s time to let it go.
7. Use It Soon
- Time Frame: Fontina cheese is best when it’s fresh. Aim to consume it within one to two weeks after opening. The longer it sits in the fridge, the more it can lose its flavor and creamy texture.
- Plan Your Meals: If you know you’ll be using Fontina in recipes, try to buy only what you need or plan your meals around it to avoid waste.
8. Freezing for Later
- How to Freeze: If you find yourself with extra Fontina cheese, freezing can be a good option. First, slice the cheese into portions or cubes. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need later. Then, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air is trapped inside. Place the wrapped cheese into a zip-top freezer bag or an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to use frozen Fontina, it’s best to thaw it in the fridge overnight. Keep in mind that freezing can change the texture, making it a bit crumblier, so it’s best used in cooking rather than as a fresh cheese on a cheese board.
By following these detailed storage tips, you can enjoy your Fontina cheese at its best, savoring its creamy flavor and delightful texture for longer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Fontina Cheese
Is Fontina cheese vegetarian?
Yes, Fontina cheese is typically considered vegetarian as it is made from cow’s milk. However, it’s always a good idea to check the product label or ask the manufacturer if you have specific dietary concerns.
Can I freeze Fontina cheese?
While some cheeses can be frozen, freezing can alter the texture of Fontina, making it crumbly. It’s generally not recommended unless you plan to use it in cooked dishes where texture changes are less noticeable.
How long does Fontina cheese last?
The shelf life of Fontina cheese depends on factors like storage conditions and whether it’s opened or unopened. Generally, an unopened block of Fontina can last several weeks to a few months in the refrigerator. Once opened, it’s best consumed within a few weeks for optimal freshness.
Can I use Fontina cheese for melting?
Yes, Fontina cheese is known for its excellent melting properties. It’s often used in dishes like fondues, pasta, and gratins where its creamy texture and savory flavor can enhance the overall dish.
Can I use Fontina cheese for a cheese board?
Absolutely! Fontina cheese works well on a cheese board. Pair it with fruits, nuts, crusty bread, and perhaps some charcuterie for a delightful and well-rounded presentation.
Does Fontina cheese have a strong smell?
Fontina cheese can have a somewhat pungent aroma, especially as it ages. The smell is part of its characteristic flavor profile. If you’re sensitive to strong-smelling cheeses, you may want to be prepared for the scent when working with Fontina.
Leave a Reply