Shropshire Blue Cheese
Discover Shropshire Blue, a rich, orange-veined blue cheese with a creamy texture and bold flavor. Perfect for cheese boards and cooking.
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Shropshire Blue Cheese
Definition and Scope
Shropshire Blue is a semi-soft blue cheese originating from England. It belongs to the Stilton family but is distinguished by its orange hue from annatto coloring. This cow’s milk cheese features prominent blue-green veining from Penicillium roqueforti mold.
The cheese was developed in the 1970s, initially in Scotland before production moved to the Midlands. It is now primarily made in Nottinghamshire, despite its name referencing Shropshire. Shropshire Blue holds Protected Geographical Indication status, ensuring its traditional production methods.
Production Process
Manufacturers use pasteurized cow’s milk combined with annatto for coloring during the initial stages. The curds are cut and drained before being hand-ladled into cylindrical molds. This ladling technique preserves the delicate curd structure essential for proper veining development.
After unmolding, cheesemakers pierce the wheels with stainless steel needles to introduce oxygen. This oxygen exposure activates the Penicillium roqueforti culture, creating the characteristic blue veins. The cheese ages for approximately 10-12 weeks in temperature-controlled environments.
Sensory Profile
Shropshire Blue presents a rich, buttery texture that crumbles slightly when cut. The orange paste provides visual contrast to the blue-green marbling throughout. Its moisture content falls between soft and hard blue cheeses, giving it a smooth mouthfeel.
Flavor notes include a pronounced saltiness balanced by creamy, tangy undertones. The blue mold contributes a piquant sharpness without overwhelming bitterness. Compared to Stilton, it typically exhibits a milder, more approachable flavor profile.
Culinary Applications
This cheese serves well on cheeseboards paired with sweet accompaniments like honey or fruit preserves. It complements robust red wines such as Port or Cabernet Sauvignon. The cheese’s crumbly texture makes it ideal for crumbling over salads or baked potatoes.
Shropshire Blue melts smoothly, making it suitable for sauces and gourmet burgers. It enhances savory tarts and quiches when baked. Chefs often use it in stuffed mushroom recipes or as a topping for steak.
Regional Context
Though named for Shropshire, most production occurs in Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire dairies. It shares geographical origins with traditional Stilton, benefiting from similar terroir and production expertise. The cheese represents a modern interpretation of English blue cheese traditions.
Shropshire Blue occupies a distinct position within British Protected Designation of Origin cheeses. It exemplifies how regional cheese-making evolves while maintaining quality standards. The cheese enjoys particular popularity in British markets and specialty cheese shops worldwide.