How Do You Spell BLEU CHEESE?

Pronunciation: [blˈuː t͡ʃˈiːz] (IPA)

Correct spelling for the English word "bleu cheese" is [blˈuː t͡ʃˈiːz], [blˈuː t‍ʃˈiːz], [b_l_ˈuː tʃ_ˈiː_z] (IPA phonetic alphabet).

BLEU CHEESE Meaning and Definition

  1. Bleu cheese, also spelled as blue cheese, is a type of cheese distinguished by its blue or blue-green veins that run throughout its creamy or crumbly texture. It derives its unique appearance and flavor from the presence of Penicillium mold cultures, which give the cheese its characteristic tangy and pungent aroma.

    To produce bleu cheese, the cheese curds are pierced with thin needles during the aging process to create air passageways. This allows the aforementioned mold to enter and initiate the process of veining. As the cheese matures, the Penicillium mold grows and spreads within, developing its distinctive blue or green veins.

    Bleu cheese can be made from different types of milk, including cow's, sheep's, or goat's milk, resulting in a variety of flavors and textures. The taste of this cheese is often described as sharp, savory, and tangy, with varying degrees of saltiness. The specific flavor profile can range from mild and buttery to intense and spicy, depending on the age and type of the cheese.

    This cheese is highly regarded for its versatility and is commonly used in various culinary applications. It can be crumbled over salads, melted into sauces, or incorporated into dips and dressings. Bleu cheese can also be enjoyed on its own, accompanied by fruits, nuts, or crackers as a cheese course or part of a cheese platter.

    Overall, bleu cheese is a distinctive and flavorful cheese that is cherished for its characteristically intense taste and appearance.

Etymology of BLEU CHEESE

The word "bleu cheese" comes from the French term "fromage bleu", which directly translates to "blue cheese". The word "bleu" refers to the characteristic blue-green veins that run through this type of cheese. Blue cheese gets its distinctive color and flavor from the cultures of Penicillium mold introduced during the cheese-making process. These molds develop over time, resulting in the unique appearance and taste associated with blue cheese.