Stilton’s Blue Veins and Creamy Texture
What sets Stilton apart from other blue cheeses? It’s the texture and the balance of flavour. Stilton cheese is semi-soft, with a smooth and buttery mouthfeel. As it matures, its flavour deepens, becoming more complex but never overpoweringly strong for most palates.
The iconic blue veins come from Penicillium roqueforti mould, which is added to the milk during the cheesemaking process. Once the cheese has formed, it’s pierced with stainless steel needles. This allows oxygen to enter, which helps the blue mould spread and develop inside the cheese.
The result? A creamy yet crumbly cheese with a slightly spicy and salty hit, making it perfect with all sorts of foods and drinks. Whether you’re simply slicing a wedge or crumbling some into a salad, Stilton adds a powerful punch.
The Historic Roots of Stilton Cheese
Stilton dates back to the 18th century, and its popularity grew thanks to travellers passing through coaching inns in the village of Stilton. These inns offered cheese wheels aged and sold by farmers and local merchants, and it didn’t take long for Stilton cheese to become a hit.
The official PDO recognition now means only Stilton from specific areas can be labelled as such, ensuring a consistent quality and character. Stilton remains hand-crafted using centuries-old methods, which guarantees its unique texture and flavour.
Today, some of the finest pieces of Stilton are available from local specialists like us at Cheese Shop Nantwich, where you can find a trusted selection of English cheeses, including exceptional Stilton.
Tasty Pairings: How to Enjoy Stilton Cheese
Let’s talk about the fun bit, eating Stilton. This cheese is strong, rich and full of flavour, so pairing it wisely is key. Here are some of our favourite ways to enjoy it:
Stilton and Fruit
The sharp, salty notes in Stilton go wonderfully with sweet fruit. Pair with fresh pear or apple slices for a simple treat. Dried fruits like apricots or figs also balance Stilton’s richness beautifully.
Stilton and Crackers
Crackers make a perfect vehicle for Stilton. Choose something plain, like water biscuits or oatcakes, so the cheese stays the star. Add a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of chutney if you fancy a flavour contrast.
Stilton with Meat
Add crumbled Stilton to steak or burgers for an upgrade. Its creamy texture melts nicely over warm dishes, taking them to the next level. Try it in a beef and Stilton pie for a comforting British classic.
Stilton and Desserts
Sounds strange, right? But trust us: Stilton and dark chocolate can be a match made in heaven for the adventurous eater. The bitter sweetness of chocolate cuts through the salty, savoury tang of the blue.
Stilton and Wine or Beer
Stilton is bold, so it stands out against equally full-flavoured drinks. For wine, go for a Port or a sweet dessert wine like Sauternes. If you’re more into beer, try a rich stout or porter. Their roasted notes pair well with the creaminess of Stilton.
The beauty of this cheese is that it’s just as good on a cheeseboard as it is baked into recipes. Some folks even stir it into risottos or mix it into dressings to make a blue cheese dip.
Where to Buy the Best Stilton
While supermarkets offer Stilton, true cheese lovers know that artisan makers and sellers are where the finest quality lies. That’s what we’re all about at Cheese Shop Nantwich. We stock beautifully aged Stilton from great British producers. You can explore our range of cut English cheeses to pick the perfect wedge for your taste.
When buying Stilton, look for visible blue veins, a nice balance of crumble and creaminess, and a lovely earthy smell. If it smells too metallic or sour, it might be past its best. We make sure that every piece we sell meets our high standards, so you only get the best.
Eating is believing. If you’ve yet to try real quality Stilton, now’s the time.
A Closer Look at Stilton in the Kitchen
One of Stilton’s greatest strengths is its versatility in the kitchen. It’s delicious raw, but it also melts into sauces and elevates baked dishes.
Try these ideas for inspiration:
- Top a slice of toasted sourdough with Stilton, honey, and walnuts.
- Crumble Stilton into mashed potatoes for a tangy twist.
- Melt into a cheese sauce to serve with pasta or steamed vegetables.
- Bake a small wedge inside puff pastry as a cheesy starter.
Stilton also makes a great stuffing for mushrooms, adds kick to quiches, and blends beautifully in creamy soups. It’s not just a cheeseboard treat, it’s a full-time culinary powerhouse.
And don’t forget: Stilton keeps giving. If the cheese has aged a little in your fridge, it can still be perfect for cooking. Just wrap it well and store it in the fridge, where it can last several weeks.
FAQs About Stilton Cheese
Can I eat Stilton if I don’t like strong cheeses?
Absolutely! While Stilton is flavourful, it’s not overly sharp or overpowering. Try a small amount first, perhaps with fruit or honey, to balance the flavour. You might be surprised how much you enjoy it.
Is Stilton the same as other blue cheeses like Roquefort or Gorgonzola?
They’re all blue cheeses, but they’re not the same. Stilton has a more crumbly texture and a mellow, creamy flavour. Roquefort is made from sheep’s milk and tends to be saltier. Gorgonzola is softer and higher in moisture. Each has its personality.
How long does Stilton last in the fridge?
Once opened, Stilton lasts about three to four weeks if stored properly. Wrap it in waxed paper, then foil, and keep it in an airtight container. Don’t store it next to other strongly-flavoured foods to protect its taste.
Can I freeze Stilton?
You can, but we don’t recommend it for the best flavour and texture. Freezing can change Stilton’s smooth creaminess. If you must freeze it, use it later for cooking rather than serving fresh.
Is Stilton vegetarian?
Many traditional Stilton cheeses are made using animal rennet, meaning they’re not suitable for vegetarians. But there are vegetarian versions available. Always check the label or ask your cheesemonger (like us!) to be sure.
Stilton’s Place at the Heart of British Cheese Culture
Stilton isn’t just a blue cheese, it’s a piece of history with character. Each bite carries stories of British heritage, local farming, and centuries-old craft. From cheeseboards to cooked dishes, Stilton brings depth and flavour like few others can.
We’re proud at Cheese Shop Nantwich to offer some of the best-quality Stilton available in the UK. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to blue cheese, there’s always something to enjoy and explore.
Ready to taste it for yourself? Browse our full range of hand-cut English cheeses, or visit the shop to chat cheese with us in person. Let’s keep Stilton’s story alive, one crumbly wedge at a time.
