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Distinctive Features of Cougar Gold
Cougar Gold cheese typically weighs 850 grams per can. It displays a rich, golden-yellow paste without any artificial coloring. The texture remains firm and slightly crumbly, similar to a well-aged cheddar.
This cheese has a moisture content of about 36 percent. Its rind forms naturally against the tin during aging. Cougar Gold offers a bold, nutty flavor with sharp undertones that intensify over time.
Cheese Varieties of Cougar Gold
Cougar Gold itself is a single, consistent variety without official subtypes. The Washington State University Creamery produces it using a standardized recipe. Some batches may show slight variations based on milk seasonality.
No distinct local adaptations exist for Cougar Gold outside its origin. The cheese maintains its unique identity due to the patented canning process. Consumers recognize it for its uniform quality and flavor profile year-round.
History and Traditions of Cougar Gold
Cougar Gold originated in the 1940s at Washington State University. Professor N.S. Golding developed it to create a cheese with an extended shelf life. The Pacific Northwest region is famous for its apples, wines, and dairy innovations.
This cheese was named after the WSU mascot, the Cougar, and its creator, Golding. It became a symbol of pride for the university and its agricultural programs. Traditions include gifting Cougar Gold during holidays and serving it at alumni events.
Production Process and Producers of Cougar Gold
Cougar Gold uses pasteurized cow’s milk from the WSU dairy herd. The milk undergoes cheddaring, milling, and pressing before canning. Cheese wheels age for a minimum of 12 months in temperature-controlled rooms.
The primary producer is the Washington State University Creamery in Pullman, Washington. This facility has exclusive rights to produce and distribute Cougar Gold cheese. No other commercial producers make this specific variety under the same name.
Quality Labels and Certifications
As to our current knowledge, Cougar Gold does not hold protected designation of origin status. It is produced under rigorous university quality control standards. The cheese maintains a reputation for consistency and food safety.
There are no specific organic or sustainability labels associated with Cougar Gold. The WSU Creamery follows standard dairy industry practices. Consumers trust its quality due to its academic institution backing.
Wine or Beverage Pairings
Cougar Gold pairs excellently with full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon. Its sharpness complements the tannins and fruit notes in the wine. Regional Washington reds enhance the cheese’s nutty characteristics.
Craft beers such as IPA or stout also match well with Cougar Gold. The bitterness of hops contrasts with the cheese’s richness. Hard cider from the Pacific Northwest offers a refreshing, acidic counterpoint.
Suitable Fruit and Vegetables
Fresh apples and pears provide a sweet crunch that balances Cougar Gold’s sharpness. Their natural acidity cleanses the palate between bites. Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Bosc for optimal texture contrast.
Dried fruits such as figs or apricots concentrate sweetness against the salty cheese. Roasted vegetables like bell peppers or caramelized onions add savory depth. Include crisp celery or carrot sticks for a fresh, crunchy element.
Suitable Meat and Fish dishes
Cougar Gold grated over beef burgers elevates their flavor with umami richness. It melts beautifully into grilled chicken sandwiches for a creamy texture. The cheese also complements smoked salmon canapés when served in thin slices.
Incorporate Cougar Gold into meatballs or meatloaf for added moisture and taste. It pairs well with cured meats like prosciutto on a charcuterie board. For fish dishes, try it baked with white fish fillets for a golden crust.
Presentation of Cougar Gold
Remove Cougar Gold from refrigeration about one hour before serving. Allow it to reach room temperature, around 20 degrees Celsius, to maximize flavor. Present it on a wooden or slate cheese board for an rustic appeal.
Arrange Cougar Gold in wedges or crumbled pieces alongside accompaniments. Use a cheese plane or sharp knife for slicing. Provide small spreaders or forks for guests to serve themselves easily.
Questions and Answers about Cougar Gold
What is Cougar Gold cheese?
Cougar Gold cheese is a cheddar-style cheese produced at Washington State University. It is known for its long shelf life due to canning and aging. Cougar Gold cheese features a sharp, nutty flavor and firm texture.
How is Cougar Gold cheese made?
Cougar Gold cheese is made from pasteurized cow’s milk using traditional cheddaring techniques. The cheese is pressed into cans and aged for at least 12 months. Cougar Gold cheese develops its character through this unique process.
Where is Cougar Gold cheese produced?
Cougar Gold cheese is produced exclusively at the Washington State University Creamery in Pullman, Washington. This facility has specialized equipment for canning and aging. Cougar Gold cheese remains a flagship product of the university.
How popular is Cougar Gold cheese?
Cougar Gold cheese enjoys strong popularity among cheese enthusiasts and WSU alumni. It has a cult following due to its unique origin and quality. Cougar Gold cheese is often sought after for special occasions.
How is Cougar Gold cheese eaten?
Cougar Gold cheese can be eaten sliced on crackers, grated over dishes, or enjoyed alone. It melts well in cooked recipes like macaroni and cheese. Cougar Gold cheese is also perfect for cheese plates with fruits and nuts.
What distinguishes Cougar Gold cheese from other cheeses?
Cougar Gold cheese is distinguished by its canned packaging and university provenance. Its aging process in sealed tins prevents mold and extends freshness. Cougar Gold cheese offers a consistent sharpness that sets it apart.
How is Cougar Gold cheese stored?
Cougar Gold cheese should be stored in its original can or wrapped tightly in parchment paper. Keep it refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius to maintain quality. Cougar Gold cheese remains edible for months due to its preservation.
Is Cougar Gold cheese used in restaurants?
Yes, Cougar Gold cheese appears in many restaurants across the Pacific Northwest. Chefs value it for its robust flavor and melting properties. Cougar Gold cheese features in gourmet sandwiches, soups, and appetizers.
Can Cougar Gold cheese be exported?
Cougar Gold cheese is primarily sold within the United States through the WSU Creamery. International shipping may be limited due to dairy regulations. Cougar Gold cheese enthusiasts often purchase it online for domestic delivery.
Why is Cougar Gold cheese important?
Cougar Gold cheese is important as an innovative American cheese with historical significance. It supports agricultural education and research at Washington State University. Cougar Gold cheese represents a successful collaboration between academia and dairy science.
Recipe Ideas
Cougar Gold Mac and Cheese
This recipe highlights the melting qualities and sharp flavor of Cougar Gold cheese. It transforms simple pasta into a creamy, indulgent dish perfect for family dinners. The cheese’s aged character adds depth that younger cheddars cannot match.
Using Cougar Gold ensures a rich sauce without needing additional thickeners. The recipe works well as a main course or a side dish for gatherings. You can customize it with breadcrumbs or herbs for extra texture and flavor.
- 200 grams Cougar Gold cheese, grated
- 300 grams elbow macaroni
- 500 milliliters whole milk
- 50 grams unsalted butter
- 40 grams all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in grated Cougar Gold cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
- Season the sauce with mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Combine with cooked macaroni.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 180°C for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Cougar Gold and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich
This sandwich pairs the sharpness of Cougar Gold cheese with the sweetness of apples. It creates a balanced flavor profile that appeals to both adults and children. The combination is a classic example of sweet and savory harmony.
Cougar Gold cheese melts beautifully between slices of bread, providing a gooey texture. Using a firm apple variety ensures it holds up during cooking. This recipe is quick to prepare and ideal for lunches or light meals.
- 100 grams Cougar Gold cheese, thinly sliced
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 1 medium apple, cored and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
- Place bread slices buttered-side down on a skillet over medium heat.
- Layer Cougar Gold cheese and apple slices on two bread slices.
- Drizzle with honey if using, then top with remaining bread slices, buttered-side up.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
- Slice sandwiches in half and serve immediately.
Similar Cheeses and Alternatives
Cougar Gold shares similarities with other aged cheddars like English Montgomery’s Cheddar or Canadian Balderson. These cheeses offer comparable sharpness and crumbly textures but lack the unique canning process. For a domestic alternative, consider Tillamook Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar from Oregon, which ages for over two years and develops complex flavors. Another option is Cabot Clothbound Cheddar from Vermont, known for its earthy notes and traditional cloth-bound aging. While these cheeses provide excellent quality, Cougar Gold remains distinct due to its academic origins and preservation method. Enthusiasts might also explore other university-made cheeses, such as those from Cornell University, though none replicate the exact profile of Cougar Gold.