feature of some cheeses crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the crossword clue "feature of some cheeses crossword", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "feature of some cheeses crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
RIND: The hard outer layer or covering of a cheese, which can be natural, waxed, or bloomy, protecting it during aging and contributing to its flavor.
MOLD: Beneficial fungi intentionally grown on or in some cheeses, like blue cheeses or Brie, giving them their distinctive flavor and appearance.
5 Letters
HOLES: The characteristic openings or 'eyes' found in some cheeses, such as Swiss or Emmental, formed by carbon dioxide gas during the fermentation process.
More About "feature of some cheeses crossword"
The fascinating world of cheese offers a variety of unique characteristics that make each type distinct. When a crossword clue points to a "feature of some cheeses," it's often referring to visible or tangible attributes. For instance, the 'holes' in Swiss cheese, technically called 'eyes,' are a prime example. These aren't random voids but are meticulously formed by gases produced by specific bacteria during the cheese's ripening.
Beyond the internal structure, the exterior of a cheese, known as the 'rind,' is another significant feature. Rinds can vary from natural and edible to washed, bloomy, or even waxed. They serve as a protective barrier, control moisture, and host beneficial microbes that contribute to the cheese's unique aroma and taste. Think of the earthy bloom on a Brie or the pungent, sticky surface of a Limburger.
Furthermore, 'mold' plays a crucial role in many cheese varieties. While often associated with spoilage, specific strains of mold are intentionally introduced to produce cheeses like Roquefort (blue mold) or Camembert (white mold). These molds develop distinctive veins or coatings and are fundamental to the cheese's flavor development, texture, and overall character.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Crossword clues often play on words. "Feature" could mean a physical attribute, but also a distinguishing characteristic or even a prominent part. Think broadly about the term.
- Think Cheese Categories: Different types of cheeses have different features. Is it a hard cheese, soft cheese, blue cheese, or a Swiss-type cheese? Recalling common cheese types can trigger relevant answers.
- Letter Count is Key: Always use the provided letter count. If you think of "HOLES" (5 letters) but the clue demands a 4-letter word, you need to consider alternatives like "RIND" or "MOLD" which also fit the "feature" criteria.
- Check Cross-References: If some letters are already filled in from intersecting words, use them as strong hints. They can eliminate possibilities and confirm your answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 'holes' in Swiss cheese called?
The holes in Swiss-type cheeses like Emmental are commonly referred to as 'eyes'. They are formed by carbon dioxide gas produced by bacteria during the cheese-making process.
Why do some cheeses have a rind?
A cheese rind is the outer layer that forms during aging. It protects the cheese from spoilage, helps maintain moisture, and can significantly contribute to the cheese's unique flavor profile and aroma. Rinds can be natural, waxed, washed, or covered in edible molds.
Are the molds on cheese safe to eat?
Many cheeses, particularly blue cheeses (e.g., Roquefort, Gorgonzola) and bloomy rind cheeses (e.g., Brie, Camembert), feature beneficial molds that are entirely safe and intended for consumption. These molds contribute to the cheese's characteristic flavor and texture. However, molds found on hard cheeses that are not typically mold-ripened should generally be cut away, and soft cheeses with unexpected mold growth should be discarded.