Waxed cheese, with its charming rustic appeal, adds a touch of elegance to any cheese board. But that protective wax can sometimes feel like a stubborn barrier. Fear not, cheese lovers! This guide will walk you through several methods to effortlessly open your waxed cheese, ensuring you enjoy every delicious bite without frustration.
Understanding the Challenge: Why Waxed Cheese is Tricky
The wax coating on cheese serves a crucial purpose: it protects the cheese from moisture loss and external contaminants, preserving its flavor and texture. This protective layer, however, can be challenging to remove without damaging the cheese underneath. Improper techniques can lead to cracking, crumbling, or even losing precious cheese in the process.
The Best Ways to Open Waxed Cheese
Here are several effective methods, catering to different preferences and levels of cheesemonger expertise:
1. The Warm Water Method: Gentle and Effective
This method is perfect for those who prefer a gentle approach. The warmth of the water softens the wax, making it easier to peel away.
- What you'll need: A bowl of warm (not hot!) water.
- How to: Submerge the cheese in the warm water for a few minutes. The wax will soften. Gently use a butter knife or cheese knife to separate the wax from the cheese rind. Peel the wax away slowly and carefully.
Pro-Tip: Don't use hot water; this can melt the wax excessively and potentially affect the cheese's surface.
2. The Scoring Method: Precise and Controlled
For a more controlled approach, especially with harder waxes, try scoring the wax first.
- What you'll need: A sharp knife or cheese slicer.
- How to: Using a sharp knife, carefully score the wax in a straight line along the length of the cheese. Gently pry the scored section away from the cheese rind. Continue scoring and peeling until you've removed all the wax.
Pro-Tip: A sharp knife minimizes the risk of tearing or crumbling the cheese.
3. The Cheese Wire Method: Clean and Efficient
A cheese wire offers a clean and effective method, particularly for cylindrical or larger cheeses.
- What you'll need: A cheese wire.
- How to: Gently saw the cheese wire back and forth around the circumference of the cheese to cut through the wax. Once the wax is cut, carefully peel it away.
Pro-Tip: A taut wire makes the cut smoother and more efficient.
4. The Kitchen Shears Method (for Smaller Cheese Wedges): Quick and Easy
For smaller wedges, kitchen shears can be surprisingly effective.
- What you'll need: Sharp kitchen shears.
- How to: Carefully snip the wax along the edge of the cheese, working your way around the wedge. The wax should then easily peel away.
Pro-Tip: Avoid using dull shears, as this can cause the wax to tear and potentially damage the cheese.
Post-Opening Cheese Care: Keeping Your Cheese Fresh
Once you've successfully opened your waxed cheese, proper storage is key to maintaining its quality and flavor. Wrap the cheese tightly in wax paper or parchment paper, then place it in an airtight container. Storing it in the refrigerator's crisper drawer will help preserve its moisture.
Choosing the Right Method: Consider Your Cheese
The best method for opening your waxed cheese depends on the type of cheese, the thickness of the wax, and your personal preference. Experiment with the different methods to find what works best for you and your cheese selection. Enjoy your delicious, freshly unwrapped cheese!
