Gjetost Cheese | culture: the word on cheese
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Gjetost

Producer
Tine
Country
Norway
Region
Gudbrand Valley
Size
Various
Weight
Various
Website
Milk
Goat
Cow
Classification
Firm
Rennet
Vegetable
Rind
None
Gjetost Cheese

Originally produced in the Gudbrand valley in Norway, Gjetost is also known as Gudbrandsdalsost. The name also derives from the Norwegian word for goat - Gjet.

The production of Gjetost is unusual in that it's made by heating (and therefore reducing) the leftover whey of cow's and goat's milk until the lactose caramelizes - hence the light brown appearance of the cheese. The mixture is then poured into rectangular molds (or traditional larger round ones) and left to cool. Occasionally, cheeses are made solely from goat's milk, in which case they are known as Ekte or genuine Gjetost.

Since Gjetost has a very low moisture content, it is extremely durable, so much so that traditionally mariners took the cheese with them on long voyages. 

Tasting Notes

Flavors of Gjetost resemble a slightly sour but sweet caramel. The texture is smooth and fudge-like.

Pairings

Contemporary uses include thin-shaven slices accompanied by coffee for breakfast, or as a Christmas time favorite in Norway, where it is eaten with spiced fruit cake.

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