The Art of Cutting Cheese: Techniques and Tools for Perfect Slices

As someone with a background in food science, particularly from the University of Guelph and Punjab's National Dairy Research Institute, I have had the opportunity to explore various methods and tools for cutting cheese. Whether you're a professional in a commercial setting or a cheese enthusiast at home, the proper technique can significantly impact the quality and texture of your cheese slices.

Adapting Meat Slicers for Cheese

Sure, the term 'meat slicer' might be misleading at first glance, but it's perfectly suited for cheese as well. In commercial settings, you can find electric meat slicers in various sizes and powers, perfect for slicing large blocks of cheese quickly and evenly. However, these are often too powerful for domestic use and can be quite challenging to operate without proper training.

For those looking for a more manageable option, there are smaller, more portable meat slicers designed for home use. These are often less powerful but still capable of providing consistent, thin slices of cheese. Some of the slicers I've used at the Department of Food Science at the University of Guelph, and in the cheese cutting program at the National Dairy Research Institute, are particularly noteworthy for their precision and ease of use.

Exploring Alternative Cutting Tools

In the absence of specialized cheese slicers, you can still rely on other cutting methods that are effective in their own right. For example, gadgets like a roller and wire attached to a handle or a wire lever on a boom on a cutting board can provide excellent results. These tools are designed to apply even pressure and tension, ensuring that your cheese slices are thin and even.

Another unique tool is the Norwegian cheese cutter, which resembles a pie server with a cleverly designed blade. This tool is perfect for slicing cheese in a gentle, even motion, making it ideal for small-scale use. However, it's important to note that while these tools are excellent for personal use, they may not be suitable for high-volume commercial operations.

The Dry Slicers and Cheese Knives

For those seeking more traditional methods, the use of cheese knives and wire slicers is highly recommended. Cheese knives are specifically designed to minimize the cheese adhering to the blade, thanks to their unique shape and the angle of the blade. A wire under tension is another excellent tool, providing a clean and even slice.

Many commercial cheese slicers employ the wire technique, which ensures a consistent and uniform slice. This method requires a wire that is stretched between two points, providing a reliable cutting edge. While cheese knives are also effective, the wire slicer can often produce slices that are thinner and more uniform.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking to cut cheese for a special occasion, a family gathering, or a professional setting, the right tool and technique can make all the difference. From specialized cheese slicers to traditional knives and wires, each method has its unique advantages. By understanding the techniques and tools available, you can achieve perfect slices every time.

Sam Arora, MSc Food Science, University of Guelph, Canada; MSc Dairy Science, National Dairy Research Institute, India