What's a New Year's Celebration Without Cheese?
Did you know it takes approximately 10 pounds of milk to make ONE pound of cheese? That means many of the nutrients found in the milk is concentrated into one delicious pound of cheese. Cheese contains many vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, riboflavin (B2 ), B12 and Calcium, Phosphorus and Zinc. Cheese helps provide the calories and high-quality protein needed for a healthy body. Many cheeses are also available in low-fat varieties for those who wish to keep the calorie count low.
Have you ever tried to melt cheese and end up with a piece of rubber? Well, here are some tips on melting cheese properly. According to the National Dairy Council cheese should be in small pieces, added last as a topping and in sauces and when using a microwave be sure to watch carefully because cooking too hot and too long could turn your cheese into a tough, rubbery mess. Check out http://www.nationaldairycouncil.org/nutrition/products/index.asp for more cheese information.
No matter how you slice it, it’s just not a party without cheese. Cheese can add that special flavor for any occasion. From appetizers to fondues, from sauces to pizza toppings, it’s just got to be REAL Cheese. Sprinkle cheese over buttered popcorn, breads, salads, soups, and the ever popular pizza. Cheese can be served with crackers, on a dessert tray or with fruits like strawberries, peaches, cherries, melons, apples and many more. Melt some cheese on casseroles, sandwiches, and even your favorite cut of meat. For more suggestions, visit http://www.havennook.com/kitchen/cheeseguide.htm.
You can purchase New York State cheese in grocery stores, specialty stores and farm markets. Or you can get it right at the farm. Here is a listing of NY dairies and cheese plants. If you’re looking for something different to do this holiday season visit the farm and bring home some cheese for your New Year’s celebration. Most farms appreciate a call before visiting them. For a list of events visit the New York State Farmstead & Artisan Cheese Makers Guild. www.nycheese.org.
This list is compiled from data obtained from the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets, Pride of New York, Farm to Table, Local Harvest, New Farm and Eat Well.
Please support the members of NY Farms! Their listings are in bold:
