Brunost

Norwegian brown cheese

Brunost (Norwegian for "brown cheese") is a family of whey cheeses with a distinctive caramel flavor and brown color. It is primarily produced and consumed in Norway, but also in Sweden where it is known as mesost or messmör. Brunost is made by boiling a mixture of milk, cream, and whey until the water evaporates and the sugars in the milk caramelize, giving the cheese its characteristic taste and color.

History

The origins of brunost can be traced back to the 19th century in Norway. It was traditionally made by farmers who wanted to utilize the whey left over from cheese production. The process of making brunost involves boiling the whey for several hours until it thickens and caramelizes. This method of cheese-making was a way to preserve the nutritional value of the whey, which would otherwise be discarded.

Production

Brunost is made by boiling whey, a byproduct of cheese production, with cream and milk. The mixture is cooked until the water content is reduced and the sugars caramelize, resulting in a thick, brown paste. This paste is then poured into molds and allowed to cool and solidify. The final product is a firm, sliceable cheese with a sweet, caramel-like flavor.

A block of traditional Norwegian brunost

Varieties

There are several varieties of brunost, each with its own unique flavor and texture. The most common types include:

• Gudbrandsdalsost: Named after the Gudbrandsdal valley in Norway, this is the most popular type of brunost. It is made with a combination of cow's milk and goat's milk, giving it a mild, sweet flavor.
• Ekte Geitost: Made exclusively from goat's milk, this variety has a stronger, more tangy flavor compared to Gudbrandsdalsost.
• Fløtemysost: Made with added cream, this variety is softer and creamier than other types of brunost.

Braunkaese, a similar cheese from Sweden

Culinary Uses

Brunost is commonly used as a topping for bread, waffles, and crispbread. It is often sliced thinly and served on open-faced sandwiches. In Norway, it is also used in cooking, particularly in sauces and gravies, where it adds a rich, sweet flavor.

Cultural Significance

Brunost holds a special place in Norwegian culture and cuisine. It is considered a national symbol and is often associated with traditional Norwegian breakfasts and snacks. The cheese is also a popular souvenir for tourists visiting Norway.

Messmor, a Swedish variant of brunost

Related pages

• Cheese
• Norwegian cuisine
• Whey
• Caramelization