It’s no secret we like cheese. It’s buttery, delicate, sharp, salty, tangy, even nutty and one small slice is all we need to satisfy a craving. We like to fondue, enjoy raclette and especially love getting to know the cheesemakers and mongers in Alberta. In this column, we’ve discovered monthly subscriptions and cheesemaking kits to create excitement and anticipation. Plus, we’ve sampled the most delicious freshly made curds and plant-based cheese that we challenge you to try, and we found a fun gift for the turophile in your life.

In this issue (and column) we are all about cheese. Be sure to check out local producer Crystal Springs Cheese making cheese and curds, and vegan cheese from Glowfood Creamery. Treat yourself to a cheese box subscription available at Bridgeland Market or try your hand at cheese making with the best cheese making kits from Springbank Cheese Co.

Kitchen Boutique, Springbank Cheese Co.

The Swissmar Girouette Cheese and Chocolate Curler is the gadget that will wow your family and friends this year. The sharp blade on a pivoting handle shaves the top layer off a cheese or chocolate wheel creating lovely curls or flowers that will elevate your charcuterie board or dessert platter. As the handle turns, the blade aerates the cheese, releasing aroma and flavour. The folks at Swissmar recommend tête de moine cheese which means monk’s head in French as the best choice, but you could also seek out Cinderella (Aschenputtel) or milch zapfen. Or ask your favourite cheesemonger what they would suggest. The curler comes with a dome to store the wheel until the next time.

Girouette Cheese Curler | Kitchen Boutique (Cochrane and Canmore,) Springbank Cheese Co. | $59.99 –
$70.00