Why does some Swiss cheese have holes in it?

It’s not the holes that give cheese holes its distinct flavor and aroma, it’s the little crunchy bits of salty cheese in the cheese that gives it its crunch. A long process called “cave aging” helps form the holes in the cheese when the cheese is heated and the moisture evaporates. The holes are a desirable texture in the cheese that many people find appealing.

Why does Swiss cheese have holes?

Swiss cheese was originally made by monks around 1500 AD. They would cut the cheese into small pieces and then stretch them to form thin, flat pieces. The cheese was then placed in frames and hung to dry. When the cheese hardened, the cheese pieces would wrinkle and develop holes.

Why do some Swiss cheese have holes in them?

Swiss cheese varieties with holes in them are called “Pont l’Évêque” or “bishop’s cheese” because the holes look like bishop’s hats. The holes are created when the cheese is formed during the draining process. Sometimes, the cheese maker will cut the holes into the cheese after it has set.

Why do Swiss cheese have holes in them?

As an interesting detail, Swiss cheese varieties with holes in them are created via a process called "molding." The cheese is placed in a mold, which creates the holes and also helps to create a distinct, square shape. Molding also allows the cheese to develop a stronger flavor than its non-molded counterpart.

Why does Swiss cheese have holes in it?

If you’ve ever looked at a piece of Swiss cheese, you’re probably aware that it has little holes in it—this is because Swiss cheese is made by heating and stretching cow and goat milk. As the cheese is stretched, the proteins in the milk clump together, forming a web-like structure. As the cheese cools, the protein clumps become harder and more noticeable, thus the holes. The holes also serve another purpose: they allow the cheese to breathe,