Cheese curd

Cheese curds are delectable, moist pieces of curdled milk that can be savored as a snack or incorporated into various dishes. They are particularly popular in Quebec, Canada, where they serve as a key ingredient in the beloved dish, poutine. Additionally, they are enjoyed in many regions across the United States.

The process of making cheese curds begins by adding bacterial culture and rennet to fresh, pasteurized milk to induce clotting. The mixture is then cut into cubes, and the whey is separated from the curd through cooking and pressing.

Cheese curds possess a mild flavor and a distinctive, springy texture. One of their standout characteristics is the signature "squeak" they produce when bitten into. However, this freshness and squeakiness can diminish over time, particularly if they are refrigerated.

People often enjoy cheese curds as a snack or appetizer, and they are an essential component of dishes like poutine, which combines French fries, cheese curds, and gravy. Fresh cheese curds can also be enhanced with flavors such as jalapeño peppers, garlic, or herbs to add an extra kick.

In addition to being enjoyed fresh, cheese curds can be deep-fried, making them a popular treat at carnivals and fairs, especially in Wisconsin. If you have ever visited the Indian subcontinent, you might have encountered paneer, a similar product made by curdling milk with an acid, which is used in a variety of culinary dishes.