Maybe you were born with it, maybe you had it thrust upon you, but either way lactose intolerance is a BFD if there ever was one. Not only are you being personally betrayed by your own body, but you are living in the dairy version of the Garden of Eden. I don’t know about you, but a wheel of brie sounds a whole lot more tempting than an apple right about now.
So, here I am, calling out to all my fellow cheese lovers and all my fellow victims of lactose intolerance. Despite the fact that some of us can’t digest a pesky dissachadaride doesn’t mean we all can’t love cheese. Let us come together over the one thing that pulls us furthest apart—a cheese plate—and find out how we can all enjoy this dairy delicacy.
The Cheese Plate: Lactose’s Worst Nightmare
Photo by Becca Buchanan
First things first. For those of you who aren’t aware, cheese plates are a gift from the heavens above. They are central pieces to all relevant social gatherings (obvi) and hello, every cheese has a wine soulmate ready to slide in. Here is the backbone of a cheese plate designed for your specific lactose intolerant needs. All of these cheeses are easy on a lactose intolerant stomach so make sure you add them to your next grocery list.
Cheddar
Photo courtesy of Brent Hofacker
You know this hotshot. The Beyonce of the dairy world, cheddar has the rep as the most popular and most loved cheese out there. Not only is it sharp and can be paired with almost anything, but it is one of the most friendly of cheeses for your not-so-accepting stomach. The longer it’s aged the less lactose content it has, so go wild and chase after those dinosaurs.
Gruyere
Photo courtesy of flickr.com
If you’re feeling a little more sophisticated, gruyere is your go-to-guy. Originating in Switzerland, gruyere provides that semi-firm, fruity yet nutty flavor sought for by a real cheese connoisseur. It can spice up any evening with it’s distinct aura of elegance, while not wreaking havoc on your body because of its lactose intolerant-friendly nature.
Parmigiano-Reggiano
Photo courtesy of Brent Hofacker
Okay, I see you over there. You think this cheese plate is a little too tame for your dare-devil life. Here is your thrill ride. Parmigiano-Reggiano, Parmesan, Parm-Parm or whatever you’d like to call this bad boy is here to satisfy all of your adventurous needs. Made only from cows who consume grass or hay, this cheese has a gritty texture and earthy taste. Most eat it crumbled over pasta or fries, but since you’re so bold feel free to enjoy it in all its glory.
Swiss
Photo courtesy of Ali Barrett
Bigger is better amirite? At least that’s what they say about the holes in Swiss cheese. Larger holes are associated with stronger flavor in this typically mild, smooth and sweet cheese. This flavor may contribute to the fact that this cheese is a crowd pleaser. Easy on the stomach due to low lactose content and a favorite among humans and mice alike. You cannot go wrong with Swiss.
Bleu
Photo courtesy of flickr.com
Some people are a little scared of this beauty. I mean, look at it. It’s almost too pretty to eat, key world almost. However my lactose intolerant friends, you have nothing to be scared of. Unless are you extremely sensitive to lactose, this semi-soft cheese is the one for you. It often takes a mature palate to properly appreciate the fragrant, buttery flavors that consume your senses with a bite of bleu, but take the leap of faith cause I promise it’ll be worth it.
The Rest of The Wide World of Cheese
Photo courtesy of someecards.com
It’s a hard knock life out there and I know it. Nevertheless, don’t let the infamous sugar dubbed lactose kill your vibe. Most soft, creamy cheeses which are fresh, such as Mozzarella, are your arch enemy when it comes to digestive comfort. However you can whip out your Lactaid when necessary and dig in. Don’t hold back, treat yo self my friend.
Gif courtesy of giphy.com