Cheddar
Cheddar is big comforting ally for low energy days and quick snacks. It's a mellty, punchy, and endlessly versatile cheese. Whether it's a comforting slice of cheese on toast, a hearty addition to scrambled eggs, or the star in an ADHD charcuterie board, it transforms simple ingredients into satisfying meals with minimal effort. A true dopamine hero.
Why is it good for ADHD?
Cheddar isn't only delicious it's surprisingly nutritious:
- Protein-Packed: Cheddar provides a substantial amount of protein, essential for sustained energy and focus. For example, a 100g serving contains approximately 25g of protein.
- Probiotic packed: Aged cheddar cheese is a great source of probiotics, encouraging good gut health and a stronger brain, gut link. Something vital for ADHDers.
- Calcium-Rich: High in calcium, cheddar supports bone health and nerve function, which are crucial for overall well-being.
- Vitamin B12: Cheddar is a good source of Vitamin B12, vital for brain health and energy metabolism.
- Satiating Fats: The healthy fats in cheddar contribute to satiety, helping maintain focus and reducing unnecessary snacking.
Different Types & Cuts
- Mild Cheddar: Aged for 2–3 months, offering a creamy and smooth flavour, perfect for melting into sauces or sandwiches.
- Medium Cheddar: Aged for 4–6 months, providing a balance between mild and sharp flavours, suitable for a variety of dishes.
- Mature Cheddar: Aged for 6–9 months, delivering a pronounced tanginess, ideal for adding depth to recipes.
- Extra Mature Cheddar: Aged for 12 months or more, offering a crumbly texture and intense flavour, great for cheese boards or bold dishes.
- Smoked Cheddar: Infused with a smoky flavour, adding a unique twist to traditional cheddar applications.
Buying Tips
- Check the Label: Opt for cheddar with minimal additives. Look for versions that list only milk, salt, cultures, and rennet.
- Aging Matters: Choose the cheddar type that suits your taste preference and intended use—mild for melting, Mature for bold flavour.
- Grated and Sliced: If the extra step of grating or slicing your cheddar is putting you off just buy the pre grated stuff. It's a little more expensive but worth it for the convenince.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store cheddar in the coldest part of the fridge, ideally in a cheese drawer or a dedicated container.
- Freezing: Cheddar can be frozen on top of dishes and as part of other meals.
- Avoid Moisture: Keep cheddar dry to prevent mould growth. If mould appears, cut off at least 1 inch around and below the mould spot.
Prep Tips
- Grating: Grate cheddar for even melting in sauces, omelettes, or atop baked dishes. Buy pre grated for an ADHD frineldy boost in the kitchen and less washing up.
- Slicing: Thin slices are perfect for sandwiches or layering in gratins.
- Melting: For a smooth melt, bring cheddar to room temperature before cooking and melt over low heat to prevent separation.
Top Flavour Bomb Combos
- Herbs: Pair with chives, thyme, pesto or rosemary for an aromatic lift.
- Onion: Cheddar goes well with any onion, particularly spring onions.
- Spices: Add a dash of paprika or mustard to enhance cheddar's natural sharpness.
- Sweet Elements: Combine with caramelised onions or apple slices for a sweet and savoury contrast.
- Acidity: A splash of Worcestershire sauce can brighten cheddar's rich flavour.
Related Recipes
Use the search below below to find recipes with the same ingredients.
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