Oklahoma Artisan Cheese
A Guide to the State's Finest Dairy Delights
In Oklahoma, a state more traditionally known for its expansive plains and oil production, a rich tradition of artisan cheese (how long does cheese last?) making is quietly unfolding. These farmstead and artisan cheeses (What wine goes well with cheese?) are the product of local dairies and families dedicated to crafting high-quality, flavorful cheeses with a distinct sense of place. Unique in their flavors, these cheeses speak to the dedication of their makers and the characteristics of the Oklahoma terroir.
Among these local producers, Christian Cheese in Kingfisher stands out for its diverse array of cheddar cheeses, born from a family-run dairy operation. Similarly noteworthy, the Italian market and cheese company Lovera's, located in Krebs, brings a touch of Italian cheesemaking tradition to the Oklahoma landscape. Their handcrafted Caciocavera is a testament to their decades-long cheesemaking heritage, offering a slice of Italy with an Oklahoma twist.
Small-scale producers are not only contributing to the Oklahoman dairy scene but are elevating it, garnering national attention for their quality products. Specialized operations like Swan Bros. Dairy in Claremore showcasethe meticulous process of cheese-making that yields premium farm-fresh cheeses (What wine goes well with fresh cheeses?). These local artisans are defining Oklahoma's contribution to the gourmet cheese market while showcasing the state's potential in producing high-caliber, artisanal foods.
History of Oklahoma Artisan Cheese
In Oklahoma, the artisan cheese industry has roots that reflect both resilience and transformation over the years. The development of this sector can be traced back to a period when the state's dairy cow population escalated, reaching a peak in 1943 with 912,000 cows collectively producing 2.7 million pounds of milk annually.
However, the landscape changed significantly in 1986 when numerous Oklahoma dairy farmers opted to participate in the U.S. government's national herd buyout program, leading to a reduction in the state's dairy industry. Despite this shift, artisan cheese production found its place in Oklahoma, with family-run dairies such as Christian Cheese in Kingfisher emerging to produce a variety of specialty cheddar cheeses, maintaining a tradition of local, handcrafted food products.
The Watonga Cheese Festival, initiated in 1976, remains a testament to Oklahoma's commitment to promoting local artisans. Designed to boost recognition and tourism, it showcases the state's cheese-making prowess and celebrates the rich culture of artisanal cheese found in the region.
Recent Trends:
Expansion: A surge in artisanal cheese makers in the U.S., from just 48 in the late 1970s to 826 by 2012.
Diversity: Increase in the variety of milk types used, including goat and sheep, although cow's milk remains predominant.
In essence, the history of Oklahoma artisan cheese is characterized by adaptation and innovation, with dairies embracing the art of cheese making to offer a unique experience in the realm of locally produced food.
Major Artisan Cheese Varieties in Oklahoma
Oklahoma's artisan cheese scene is marked by a commitment to traditional craftsmanship and local flavors. Two standout categories in this domain are Caciocavera and a selection of other premium cheeses.
Caciocavera
Caciocavera is a signature Oklahoma cheese inspired by the Italian Caciocavallo. This cheese is known for its smooth texture and mild flavor, which becomes sharper as it ages. It’s traditionally hand-stretched and hung to age, a testament to the artisanal methods preserved by Oklahoma's cheesemakers.
Other Premium Cheeses
Aside from Caciocavera, Oklahoma boasts a variety of premium cheeses. Local artisans produce:
Cheddar Varieties: Multiple aged cheddars showcasing a spectrum from mild to extra sharp.
Bries: Creamy and rich in flavor, representing Oklahoma's take on this French classic.
Each cheese type from Oklahoma reflects the state’s dedication to quality and the expression of local terroir through traditional cheese-making practices.
Profiles of Prominent Oklahoma Cheesemakers
Oklahoma boasts a rich tapestry of cheesemaking excellence, accentuated by family traditions and award-winning creations that have put the state on the artisanal cheese map.
Cheesemaker Traditions
In Kingfisher, the Christian family has established Christian Cheese, a dairy farm known for its diverse range of cheddar cheeses. This family-run business emphasizes traditional cheesemaking practices while nurturing their dairy herd to produce high-quality milk, the foundation of their cheese varieties.
Another embodiment of cheese heritage is found in Watonga Cheese Factory, where classic recipes have been meticulously followed since 1940. Their signature Longhorn Cheddar is handmade, and the pride they take in their history is reflected in the rich flavors of their products.
Award-Winning Artisan Cheesemakers
Lovera's Handcrafted Foods in Krebs is the brains behind the Caciocavera cheese, an Oklahoma homage to the Italian caciocavallo. This signature cheese is not only a nod to a 500-year-old Southern Italian tradition but also an award-winning staple that speaks to Lovera's dedication to quality and taste.
Within Tulsa, cheesemakers have also gained acclaim. With modern facilities and innovative practices, Oklahoma's artisan cheese industry isn't just rooted in history but is also pushing the boundaries and earning awards, testament to the state's commitment to excellence in cheesemaking.
