As a cheese lover, it's hard to resist the extra tanginess of Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese. But before taking a bite, it's important to know the nutritional facts. One serving of this cheese contains 110 calories.
Aside from calories, Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese is made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, and annatto (for color). This rich and flavorful cheese is perfect for adding a zing to your sandwiches, dips, or salads.
In this article, we'll explore what makes Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese unique, its nutritional benefits, and how to incorporate it into your diet.
Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese is a type of cheddar cheese that has been aged for over a year. This aging process intensifies the sharpness and tanginess of the cheese, making it a favorite among cheese lovers. Compared to regular cheddar cheese, Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese has a crumbly texture and a more complex flavor profile. The cheese has a nutty, buttery, and slightly fruity taste, and is perfect for snacking or adding a kick to your recipes. Fun fact: the cheese gets its distinct orange color from annatto, a natural food dye that comes from the seeds of a tropical shrub.
To make Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese, you only need a few basic ingredients: pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, and annatto. These ingredients are mixed together and left to age for over a year, resulting in a rich and flavorful cheese that's perfect for snacking or cooking. The cheese culture and enzymes play a key role in the aging process, breaking down the proteins and creating that tangy and sharp flavor profile. Annatto, on the other hand, is used to give the cheese its signature orange color. It's worth noting that cheese, in general, is a dairy product that's high in saturated fat and sodium. While small amounts of Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese can be part of a balanced diet, it's important to consume it in moderation and balance it with other nutrient-rich foods.
One serving of Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese (about 1 oz or 28 g) contains 110 calories. This serving size also contains 9 g of fat, 0 g of carbohydrates, and 7 g of protein. If you're trying to stick to a calorie-controlled diet, it's important to measure your portions and pay attention to how much cheese you consume. You can enjoy Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese as a snack, on top of your salads, or melted over your favorite dishes, but make sure to balance it out with other nutrient-rich foods.
Despite its high saturated fat and sodium content, Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese has some nutritional benefits. It's a good source of calcium, a mineral that's important for maintaining strong bones and teeth. One serving of Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese contains about 200 mg of calcium, which is about 20% of the daily recommended intake for adults. The cheese is also a good source of protein, with about 7 g of protein per serving. However, it's important to consume cheese in moderation and balance it with other nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Too much cheese can contribute to weight gain and increase your risk of cardiovascular disease.
While Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese contains some nutritional benefits, it's not a food that's recommended for weight loss. The cheese is high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium, which can contribute to weight gain and increase your risk of cardiovascular disease. If you're trying to lose weight, it's important to include a variety of nutrient-rich foods in your diet and limit your intake of high-calorie and high-fat foods like cheese.
While Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese is generally safe to consume, it can cause some side effects in certain individuals. The cheese is high in lactose, a type of sugar found in milk products that can be difficult to digest for some people. If you're lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy, you may experience digestive symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese in your diet. Here are some ideas:
- Snack on a small serving of cheese with crackers or fruit.
- Shred the cheese and sprinkle it over your salads or soups.
- Melt the cheese over your favorite dishes like mac and cheese, burgers, or grilled cheese sandwiches.
- Make a cheese platter with a variety of cheeses, fruits, nuts, and crackers.
Remember to consume cheese in moderation and balance it with other nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.
If you're looking for some healthier alternatives to Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese, consider these options:
- Feta cheese: This tangy cheese is lower in calories and fat than cheddar cheese.
- Goat cheese: This cheese has a distinct flavor and is lower in calories and fat than cheddar cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese: This mild cheese is lower in calories and fat than cheddar cheese and is versatile in cooking.
- Ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese is lower in calories and fat than cheddar cheese and is great in sweet or savory dishes.
Remember to read nutrition labels and choose cheeses that are lower in saturated fat and sodium.
Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese pairs well with a variety of foods, from sweet to savory. Here are some delicious pairing ideas:
- Apples or pears: The sweetness of the fruit complements the tanginess of the cheese.
- Crackers or bread: These simple carbs are perfect for enjoying the cheese on its own or as part of a cheese platter.
- Wine or beer: A glass of red wine or a bottle of craft beer can enhance the flavors of the cheese.
- Spicy or savory dishes: The sharpness of the cheese can add a kick to dishes like chili, stews, or tacos.
Experiment with different flavor combinations to find your favorite pairings.
Whether you're a cheese lover or just discovering the joys of Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this tangy cheese:
- As a snack: Enjoy a small serving of cheese with crackers or fruit.
- On top of your salads: Shred the cheese and sprinkle it over your greens for an extra zing.
- Melted over your dishes: Add the cheese to your favorite dishes like mac and cheese, burgers, or grilled cheese sandwiches.
- As part of a cheese platter: Create a cheese platter with a variety of cheeses, fruits, nuts, and crackers.
Remember to consume cheese in moderation and balance it with other nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.
"Life is great. Cheese makes it better." - Avery Aames
Frequently Asked Questions about Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1. How many calories does one serving of Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese contain?
One serving of Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese contains 110 calories.
2. What is the difference between Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese and regular cheddar cheese?
Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese is aged longer than regular cheddar cheese, giving it a stronger and more intense flavor.
3. Can Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese be used for cooking?
Yes, Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese can be used for cooking. It is great for adding flavor to dishes such as macaroni and cheese, casseroles, and soups.
4. Does Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese contain any artificial ingredients?
No, Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese does not contain any artificial ingredients. It is made from all-natural ingredients.
5. Is Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Special Reserve Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese is suitable for vegetarians as it is made with vegetarian-friendly rennet.