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Distinctive Features of Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese
Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese typically forms in 2 kilogram wheels with a diameter of about 20 centimeters. Its rind is natural and exhibits a pale yellow to light brown color. The interior paste is firm and slightly crumbly with a consistent ivory hue.
This cheese has a semi-hard texture that breaks easily under pressure. Its moisture content ranges between 38% and 42%, contributing to a smooth mouthfeel. Aroma notes include mild earthiness with a hint of tropical spice. The flavor profile is rich and buttery with a subtle tangy finish.
Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese Varieties
The classic Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese ages for four months and uses pure cow’s milk. This version has a fat in dry matter content of approximately 48%. It remains the most widely available variety in Jamaican markets and abroad.
Local adaptations include a spiced variant infused with jerk seasoning. Another variety incorporates scotch bonnet peppers for added heat. Some producers offer a smoked version using traditional Jamaican pimento wood. These variations maintain the core cheese characteristics while adding distinct local flavors.
History and Traditions of Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese
Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese originated in the 1970s in Saint Ann Parish, Jamaica. It developed as part of Jamaica’s movement toward agricultural self-sufficiency. The cheese initially served local communities before gaining national popularity.
Jamaica’s region is famous for jerk seasoning, Blue Mountain coffee, and Appleton Estate rum. Cheese production complemented existing dairy traditions on the island. Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese often features in holiday celebrations and family gatherings. It symbolizes Jamaican culinary innovation and resourcefulness.
Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese Production Process and Producers
Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese uses fresh cow’s milk from local Jamaican dairy farms. The milk undergoes pasteurization before starter cultures and rennet are added. Curds form and are cut, drained, and pressed into molds over several hours.
The cheese wheels brine for 24 hours before moving to aging rooms. They mature at 12°C with 85% humidity for four months. Main producers include Walkerswood Company, which pioneered this cheese style. Other notable makers are Cold Springs Creamery and Jamaican Dairy Cooperative, though Walkerswood remains the primary producer.
Quality Labels and Certifications
As to our current knowledge, Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese may carry the Jamaica Agricultural Society quality seal. This label verifies local production standards and ingredient authenticity. It ensures the cheese meets specific Jamaican dietary and safety regulations.
Some batches obtain organic certification through Caribbean Organic Standards. This certification confirms no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers in the milk production. However, not all Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese varieties hold these labels consistently.
Wine or Beverage Pairings
Local Jamaican beverages pair wonderfully with Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese. Try it with Red Stripe beer or Appleton Estate rum. These drinks highlight the cheese’s creamy texture and mild spice notes.
International wines like oaked Chardonnay or light Merlot complement its richness. Non-alcoholic options include sorrel drink or ginger beer. The carbonation and sweetness balance the cheese’s savory character effectively.
Suitable Fruit and Vegetables
Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese pairs excellently with tropical fruits. Serve it with fresh mango slices, pineapple chunks, or papaya. These fruits enhance the cheese’s buttery flavor and add juicy sweetness.
Vegetable accompaniments include roasted sweet potatoes or fried plantains. Crisp cucumber rounds or bell pepper strips provide refreshing contrast. Steamed callaloo or ackee also work well in cooked dishes featuring the cheese.
Suitable Meat and Fish Dishes
Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese complements jerk chicken or pork beautifully. Grate it over oxtail stew or incorporate it into beef patties. The cheese melts smoothly and adds depth to these hearty meats.
For fish dishes, try it with escovitch fish or steamed snapper. It works well in seafood bakes or stuffed into fried fish. The cheese’s firm texture holds up in cooking without becoming overly greasy.
Presentation of Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese
Present Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese on a wooden board or ceramic platter. Remove it from refrigeration 60 minutes before serving. Ideal serving temperature is 18°C to 20°C for full flavor development.
Arrange cheese wedges with space between them for easy access. Use a cheese knife for cutting and a spreader for soft applications. Provide small plates and forks for guests to enjoy the cheese comfortably.
Questions and Answers About Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese
What is Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese?
Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese is a semi-hard cheese made from cow’s milk in Jamaica. It features a rich, buttery flavor with subtle spicy notes. This cheese typically ages for about four months.
How should I store Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese?
Store Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese in the refrigerator at 4°C to 7°C. Keep it wrapped in wax paper or cheese paper to maintain humidity. Proper storage extends its shelf life to three weeks after opening.
Can I freeze Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese?
Freezing Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese is not recommended. It can alter the texture and cause crumbiness. For best quality, consume Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese fresh or refrigerated.
Where can I buy Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese?
Purchase Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese in Jamaican specialty stores or online retailers. Some international gourmet shops also stock Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese. Check with local distributors for availability in your region.
How do I cut Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese?
Cut Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese with a sharp cheese knife into wedges or cubes. For even slices, ensure the cheese is at room temperature. Always cut Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese against the grain for the best texture.
What is the shelf life of Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese?
Unopened Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese lasts up to two months in the refrigerator. Once opened, consume Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese within three weeks. Always check for mold or off odors before using Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese.
Can I cook with Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese?
Yes, Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese melts well in cooked dishes. Use it in gratins, sandwiches, or baked recipes. Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese adds creamy richness to various culinary preparations.
Is Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese vegetarian?
Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese uses animal rennet in traditional production. Some modern versions may use microbial rennet. Check the label to confirm if Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese meets vegetarian standards.
How does Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese compare to cheddar?
Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese is firmer and less acidic than many cheddars. It has a distinct Caribbean flavor profile. Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese also typically has a shorter aging period than aged cheddars.
What meals pair best with Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese?
Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese enhances breakfast dishes like eggs or toast. It works well in lunch sandwiches or dinner casseroles. Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese also stars on cheese boards with fruits and nuts.
Recipe Ideas
Jamaican Cheese and Callaloo Stuffed Chicken
This recipe showcases Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese in a classic Caribbean main course. The cheese melts into the callaloo filling, creating a creamy texture. It pairs beautifully with the seasoned chicken breast for a balanced meal. This dish is perfect for special dinners or family gatherings.
Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese adds richness without overpowering the other ingredients. The callaloo provides earthy notes that complement the cheese. Serve this stuffed chicken with rice and peas for a complete Jamaican experience. It typically takes about 45 minutes to prepare and cook.
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 200 grams Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese, grated
- 300 grams callaloo, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat oven to 180°C.
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
- Add callaloo and thyme, cook for 5 minutes.
- Mix in grated Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese until combined.
- Cut pockets into chicken breasts and stuff with mixture.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then bake for 25 minutes.
- Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Spicy Cheese and Plantain Canapés
These canapés highlight Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese as an appetizer or snack. The sweet plantain base contrasts with the savory cheese topping. They are easy to assemble and ideal for parties or quick bites. The recipe uses common Jamaican ingredients for authentic flavor.
Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese provides a creamy element that balances the spice. The canapés cook quickly under a broiler for a golden finish. They can be made ahead and reheated if needed. This dish serves about six people as a starter.
- 2 ripe plantains, sliced into rounds
- 150 grams Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese, sliced
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Olive oil for brushing
- Brush plantain rounds with olive oil and grill until tender.
- Place a slice of Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese on each plantain round.
- Sprinkle with scotch bonnet pepper and cilantro.
- Broil for 3-4 minutes until cheese bubbles.
- Drizzle with lime juice before serving warm.
Similar Cheeses and Alternatives
Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese shares similarities with other Caribbean cheeses like Dutch Pot Cheese from Suriname. Both have semi-hard textures and mild aging periods. However, Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese distinctively incorporates local Jamaican flavors not found elsewhere. For those seeking alternatives, mild chedders or Gouda can substitute in recipes, though they lack the tropical nuance. Another comparable cheese is Queso Blanco from Latin America, which offers a similar firmness but different milk profiles. Ultimately, Walkerswood Jamaican Cheese remains unique due to its specific production region and cultural influences.