Mississippi Artisan Cheese
A Guide to the State's Finest Cheeses
Artisan cheese (how long does cheese last?) in Mississippi represents a thriving sector that epitomizes the state's commitment to culinary craftsmanship and local agriculture. These handcrafted cheeses (What wine goes well with cheese?) are the result of meticulous processes carried out by passionate cheesemakers, often with a focus on traditional methods combined with a regional twist. Mississippi's climate and geography contribute to rich pastures, which in turn support dairy farms that provide high-quality milk, the essential ingredient for exceptional artisan cheese.
Cheese connoisseurs and those interested in supporting local economies have ample opportunities to explore Mississippi's cheese offerings. From the soft, creamy textures of goat cheeses to the bold and aged flavors of cow milk cheeses, the variety available reflects the rich dairy heritage of the state. Led by small dairies such as the cooperatively owned Rochdale Farms, the Johnston Hill Creamery, and university-affiliated MAFES Sales Store, Mississippi presents an array of cheese that showcases the talents and pride of its local producers. These enterprises not only contribute to gastronomy but also epitomize the community-driven approach to food production in Mississippi, ensuring the cheese is as much about place and people as it is about taste.
History of Mississippi Artisan Cheese
Mississippi has carved a reputable niche in the world of artisan cheese, establishing traditions that have been relished across the country. This journey dates back to when local craftsmen recognized the potential of the rich dairy produce abundant in the state.
Mississippi State University (MSU) has been particularly influential in developing the state's artisan cheese tradition. MSU’s artisan cheese production is grounded in a commitment to quality and tradition, with the department working diligently to craft cheeses that are both delicious and emblematic of Mississippi's culinary heritage.
With a small, dedicated team, MSU’s cheese-making facility produces a significant quantity of artisan cheese annually:
Edam Cheese: MSU is renowned for its distinctive three-pound balls of Edam cheese, with an annual production of approximately 50,000 units.
Cheddar Blocks: They also manufacture around 50,000 blocks of cheddar each year, known for their smooth texture.
Vallagret: Their selection includes 10,000 wheels of vallagret, a testament to the diversity in their cheese-making repertoire.
Additionally, MSU contributes to the state’s dairy tradition with sizeable outputs of butter, milk, and ice cream. Their dedication to the craft of cheese-making reflects Mississippi's embrace of dairy production and artisanal techniques.
The history of Mississippi's artisan cheese is not just about the products but also the community and culture that they embody. Over the years, MSU has instilled within these artisanal endeavors a sense of pride and continuity, much akin to the broader history of American cheesemaking, where craftsmanship converges with local heritage to produce flavors that are testament to Mississippi's dairy prowess.
Types of Mississippi Artisan Cheese
Mississippi's artisan cheese culture embraces a variety of unique and flavorful milk cheeses, each carefully crafted to offer a distinct taste experience. The state's cheesemakers are particularly known for their skillful production of Edam, Vallagret, and Cheddar, which are among the beloved varieties that adeptly represent the local artisanal prowess.
Edam Cheese
Edam cheese, originally hailing from the Netherlands, finds a special place in Mississippi's dairy repertoire. It is characterized by its mild flavor and firm yet slightly elastic texture. This semi-hard cheese is made from part-skimmed milk, preserving a subtle taste with a pronounced nuttiness as it ages.
Vallagret
Vallagret is a lesser-known but equally cherished artisan cheese variety produced in Mississippi. This cheese is creamy and features a complex range of flavors that can range from fruity to nutty. The unique profile of Vallagret makes it a versatile cheese for various culinary applications, celebrating the innovation within Mississippi's artisan cheeses community.
Cheddar
The Cheddar produced in Mississippi takes pride in its rich, sharp taste and crumbly texture that cheese enthusiasts favor. Mississippi cheddar is typically aged to perfection, allowing the tangy flavor to deepen and the body to become more firm. It represents not only a popular choice amongst milk cheeses but also stands out for its artful crafting in the hands of local artisans.
Cheese Production Process
In Mississippi, the production of artisan cheese is a testament to local craftsmanship and dedication to dairy excellence. Both the Bearden Dairy Research Center and the Custer Dairy Processing Plant play pivotal roles in bringing fresh, high-quality cheeses from the pastures to the palate.
Bearden Dairy Research Center
At the Bearden Dairy Research Center, the journey of artisan cheese begins. Milk, the foundational ingredient, is sourced from a carefully managed herd to ensure the highest quality. The Center emphasizes the importance of local production, and the cheesemakers here are deeply involved in every step.
Artisan Cheeses Produced:
Edam Cheese
Cheddar
Vallagret
Dairy Products Annually:
Milk: 50,000 gallons
Butter: 5,500 pounds
Every pound of cheese reflects the Research Center's commitment to tradition and innovation in artisan cheese production.
Custer Dairy Processing Plant
The Custer Dairy Processing Plant is where this commitment takes shape. Expert cheesemakers transform the fresh milk into a variety of artisanal cheeses, maintaining the high standards required for such a label.
Annual Production Figures:
Edam Cheese: 50,000 three-pound balls
Cheddar: 50,000 blocks
Ice Cream: 25,000 gallons
The Plant not only caters to the crafting of cheeses but also extends its operations to creating other dairy delights, showcasing versatility and proficiency in dairy product creation. The local economy benefits from this as well, with the Plant's productions appreciated both regionally and nationwide.
Mississippi State University's Role
Mississippi State University (MSU) has forged a strong reputation for its role in the artisan cheese industry. Through its College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, MSU not only fosters education and research but also actively engages in the production and sale of premium cheeses, notably its flagship product, the Edam cheese.
MAFES Cheese Sales Store
The Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station (MAFES) operates the MAFES Sales Store on Stone Boulevard. Here, a variety of cheese products are sold, which include the renowned Edam cheese, cheddar, jalapeno, and Vallagret, among others. The store is an integral part of MSU's practical learning environment where customers can purchase these products that have been developed as part of the university's teaching and research programs.
Products Available: Edam cheese, cheddar, jalapeno, Vallagret
Location: Stone Boulevard, MSU Campus
MSU Cheese Legacy
MSU has a legacy of cheese production dating back to its first Edam cheese, introduced by F.H. Herzer. The tradition of cheese-making at the university has since flourished, with MSU's Custer Dairy Processing Plant becoming a cornerstone for dairy products. Annually, the university produces an impressive 50,000 blocks of cheddar and other cheeses, mirroring the dedication of its cheesemakers and the educational significance of the artisan cheese program at MSU.
Annual Production: Approx. 50,000 blocks of cheddar
Flagship Product: Edam cheese
Cheesemakers at MSU carry out their tasks at the Bearden Dairy Research Center and the Custer Dairy Processing Plant, which serve as centers for dairy production and research at the university. These facilities contribute significantly to MSU’s role in sustaining and advancing the artisan cheese industry while providing a rich, educational backdrop for students.
Economic Impact and Local Businesses
The artisan cheese industry in Mississippi, with a focus on family farms and local cheese shops, contributes significantly to the local economy by providing employment and supporting local dairy agriculture.
Family Farms
Family farms in Mississippi have found a niche in the artisan cheese market, selling their products through local outlets or directly to consumers. Production methods tend to be traditional, and many farms use milk from their own herds. For example, Redhead Creamery, woman-owned and operated since 2013, transforms the milk from its own dairy farm into high-quality artisan cheese. These operations not only add to the agricultural diversity but also boost the local economies by keeping the supply chain regional and creating jobs.
Artisan Cheese Shops
Local Mississippi cheese shops serve as important retail points for the distribution of artisan cheeses. They not only offer a variety of cheeses from local producers but also contribute to the local economy by employing knowledgeable staff and providing market space for small-scale producers. These specialty shops enhance the market presence of local cheeses and play a pivotal role in educating consumers about the quality and sources of the products they purchase.
Mississippi's Cheese Culture
Mississippi's cheese culture flourishes with a variety of artisan cheeses, tours, and events that cater to cheese lovers, all supported by a traditional approach to cheese-making.
Tours and Tasting Events
Visitors to Mississippi can experience the state’s rich cheese culture firsthand by participating in tours and tasting events. The MSU Cheese Store, known for producing high-quality artisan cheeses, offers a glimpse into the cheese-making process. At the MSU Cheese Store, one can witness the creation of 5,500 pounds of butter and 25,000 gallons of ice cream annually. Events such as guided tastings allow cheese lovers to indulge in the creamery’s offerings and learn about the subtleties and complexities of cheese flavors and textures.
Cheese Lover Communities
In Mississippi, cheese lover communities thrive around places that celebrate the craft of cheese-making. These communities often gather for special events at local creameries and markets that showcase small-batch, aged cheeses (What wine goes well with aged cheeses?). The artisanal nature of these products ensures that members of these communities have access to specialty cheeses with distinct flavors that reflect the local terroir. Creameries, like the one with the 150-square-foot "cheese cave," serve as social and educational hubs where aficionados can immerse themselves in the sensory experience of artisan cheeses, including those processed at the Bearden Dairy Research Center by the MAFES staff.
Comparison with Other Regions
Mississippi's artisan cheese industry, while vibrant and unique, stands in contrast to cheese production in other parts of the United States. A key player to compare to Mississippi is Wisconsin, with its longstanding history and global reputation in cheese-making.
Wisconsin's Cheese Industry
Wisconsin is renowned for its extensive history as a leader in the American cheese industry. Recognized globally for its high-quality cheese, Wisconsin's cheese-making is rooted in tradition and a broad range of expertise. Mississippi's artisan cheese producers differ from Wisconsin's in scale and output, but they share a commitment to quality and craft. Wisconsin's artisan cheese scene benefits from a robust infrastructure that supports a variety of cheeses, including specialty vats hand-selected for quality assurance.
Unlike Mississippi, where the artisan approach is still gaining traction, Wisconsin has established a massive dairy industry with a particular strength in award-winning artisan and specialty cheeses. The cheese-makers in Wisconsin often work with a rich variety of milk types, including cow, goat, and sheep, contributing to a diverse product range. Meanwhile, in Mississippi, artisan cheese-makers tend to focus on a smaller scale production, with an emphasis on local traditions and flavors.
Culinary Use and Recipes
Mississippi's artisan cheese scene offers a variety of cheeses perfect for culinary exploration. Recipes often highlight the distinct flavors and textures of these cheeses, showcasing them in both traditional and innovative dishes.
Classic Pairings:
Mississippi artisan cheeses can elevate simple meals. A sharp cheddar might be grated over a steaming bowl of Mississippi Mac and Cheese, melding seamlessly with a creamy béchamel sauce. Cheese like this, made from high-quality dairy, often bears a depth of flavor that pre-shredded varieties lack.
Cooking Techniques:
Chefs and home cooks alike might feature a soft, locally made brie as the centerpiece of a dish, such as MAPLE-PLANKED BRIE WITH MUSHROOM-WALNUT RAGOUT. The process of roasting or grilling on wood planks infuses the cheese with a smoky undertone.
Creative Recipes:
Artisan cheese can transform the mundane to the extraordinary. A simple sandwich becomes gourmet when filled with a melting, flavorful cheese from Mississippi's artisanal range. Recipes may also encourage the pairing of these cheeses with local produce to create fresh salads or toppings for crackers and bread.
Recipe Guides:
As individuals explore the art of cheese-making, recipe books focused on artisan cheese provide a plethora of options. These guides not only delve into crafting cheese but also advise on the culinary use of each variety, encouraging experimentation.
Using Mississippi's artisan cheeses in recipes allows one to appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into dairy products. By incorporating local cheeses into meals, consumers support the regional economy and discover a new appreciation for the versatility and robust flavors of these dairy delights.
MSU Cheese in the Marketplace
Mississippi State University (MSU) Cheese, renowned for quality and tradition, has established a robust presence in the marketplace, both physically and virtually through its dedicated store and online offerings.
Online Sales and Marketing
The MSU Cheese Store has embraced the digital age, catering to cheese aficionados via its online platform, msucheese.com. Customers can purchase a variety of artisan cheeses such as the iconic three-pound Edam cheese ball, cheddar, jalapeno, and Vallagret. Their online store opens periodically, as highlighted in announcements like the "HAPPY NEW YEAR" opening for orders on January 16th, signaling seasonal availability and special occasions.
In addition to cheese, their product range extends to other food items, including meat products, juices, jams, and meats, aligning with the institution's agricultural heritage. The creamery products are a result of meticulous research and teaching programs, which are reflected in the exceptional quality of the products sold.
Transactional ease is evident on the website, where simplicity in navigation and clear product descriptions enable customers to make informed purchases. Marketing efforts are visible through engaging snippets that entice potential buyers, celebrating new beginnings, and inviting them to indulge in the rich MSU cheese tradition.
The physical MSU Cheese Store, located at 925 Stone Blvd, Mississippi State, punctuates the marketplace with its tangible presence. Here, visitors can experience the creamery's offerings firsthand, Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm.
Through strategic online presence and consistent product excellence, MSU Cheese continues to establish its brand, meeting consumer demand, and promoting Mississippi's rich agricultural products to a wider audience.
