Food glossary

Hard cheese

Cheese, hard

Ardrahan

A semi-soft, brine washed rind, pasteurised, vegetarian Irish cheese with a mature flavour. Ardrahan is hand-made by Eugene and Mary Burns on their farm in County Cork and can have quite a smooth texture. It has a rich buttery flavour with a zesty tang and an edible full-bodied rind. Ardrahan won a silver medal at the 2001 British Cheese Awards and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve Ardrahan with a selection of Irish cheeses such as Cashel Blue, St Killian and Carrigaline on a cheeseboard with soda bread or oat cakes.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

Ashdown Foresters Organic

A full fat, semi-hard pressed pale creamy-coloured cheese with a natural honey coloured rind. It is made in the Ashdown Forest at Duddleswell, East Sussex from locally produced organic pasteurised cow's milk. Ashdown Foresters Organic cheese is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at the Crowborough, Burgess Hill, Sevenoaks, Horsham, Hailsham and Paddock Wood branches of Waitrose.

Uses: Serve on a cheeseboard or use in sandwiches or salads.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Ashmore Farmhouse

A hand-made locally produced hard cheese with a really smooth texture, similar to Cheddar but with a richer and creamier taste. Ashmore Farmhouse Cheese was a bronze medal winner at the British Cheese Awards in 2001. It is made in Ashmore, Wiltshire from unpasteurised cow's milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve with wholemeal bread and tomato relish or grate and add to salads, use to top baked potatoes or simply eat with slices of eating apple.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Beaufort

A full fat hard French cheese made from unpasteurised cows milk. Beaufort is known as 'the prince of Gruyères' and has a fruity aroma with a rich flavour and a smooth creamy, buttery texture. Beaufort is available prepacked as part of the Select range from Waitrose.

Uses: Beaufort is an excellent melting cheese and can be incorporated into cooked dishes or sprinkled over the top. It is ideal for serving as part of a cheeseboard.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard, remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Berkswell

A hard ewe's milk cheese which won a gold medal at the British Cheese Awards in 2001 and was originally developed from a Caerphilly cheese recipe. It is hand-made at Ram Hall in Berkswell, Warwickshire and has a rich, full flavour with a buttery lingering flavour. It is similar to a mature Pecorino or Manchego cheese. Berkswell is made from unpasteurised milk and is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Berkswell can be served on a cheeseboard or grated and added to soups, sauces or pasta dishes.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Blue

A blue cheese is a creamy white-coloured cheese which has blue veins running through it. The veins are formed when a mould culture is added to milk at the beginning of the cheese-making process. Blue cheeses have a tangy, piquant, spicy and peppery flavour. Hard Blue cheeses include: Dorset Blue Vinny, Shropshire Blue, Stilton, and Wensleydale(individual descriptions are found alphebetically in this glossary). Blue cheese is made from pasteurised milk and is available prepacked or from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: In salad dressings, in cooking or simply served with bread or biscuits.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard, remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Caerphilly

A creamy white, mild and crumbly salty cheese originally made in Caerphilly in south Wales in around 1830. Caerphilly cheese was traditionally eaten by miners to replace the salt they lost whilst working down the mines it used to be eaten like cake! Caerphilly cheese is combined with leeks and breadcrumbs to make the vegetarian dish Glamorgan sausages. Waitrose stock a variety of different types of Caerphilly cheese, choose from:

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Caerphilly

A young, moist crumbly cheese that has a salty buttermilk flavour. Caerphilly is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and mild Caerphilly is sold prepacked in Waitrose.

Uses: Serve on its own or with grapes or apples or grill on thick crusty toast.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Gorwydd Caerphilly

A clean and fresh sweet Caerphilly cheese with a creamy, crumbly texture made by Todd Trethowen near Llanddewi Brefi, Tregaron in Dyfed. Gorwydd Caerphilly has a grey moulded rind which can have distinctive vivid yellow or orange splodges, it is made from unpasteurised Teifi valley milk that is left to mature for 2 months to give it lasting flavour and is suitable for vegetarians. It won a gold medal at the 2001 British Cheese Awards for the Best Territorial Cheese and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve on its own or use in cooking to make Glamorgan sausages, Welsh Rarebit or a cheese and leek sauce to serve with chicken or cod.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Cheddar

Cheddar is the most widely purchased and eaten cheese in the world. It was first made in the Mendip Hills in Somerset near Cheddar Gorge, but today it is produced worldwide. The majority of Cheddar is made from cow's milk and it ranges in colour from white to pale yellow and has a smooth, fairly hard texture. Cheddar has a mild flavour when first made, but this develops to a full, nutty taste as it is left to mature. It is generally matured for between 9 to 24 months. Waitrose stock an extensive range of Cheddar cheese, choose from:

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Bakers Very Tasty Mature Somerset Cheddar

A firm textured farmhouse cheese with a distinctive bite and a rich, full flavour. Bakers Very Tasty Mature Somerset Cheddar is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available at the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve Bakers Cheddar in crusty rolls with your favourite fruit chutney or grate and use to top baked potatoes or vegetarian or meat chilli.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Coombe Farm Organic Cheddar

Coombe Farm Cheddar is made in the traditional way, using milk produced under organic standards. Choose from Mature Cheddar, a full flavoured distinctive mature cheese or Medium Cheddar, a mellow tangy flavoured medium cheese. Coombe Farm Cheddar is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Include in cooking in recipes such as cheese straws, cheese and onion quiche or pasties or serve with organic celery and a selection of organic dried fruit and nuts on a cheeseboard.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Country Larder English Goat's Cheddar

This cheese is unusual in that unlike most Cheddar it is made from goat's milk rather than cow's milk. It is matured for at least 10 months to produce a full flavoured cheese that has a fruity, clean flavour with a slightly crumbly texture. Country Larder English Goat's Cheddar is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Ideal as a useful alternative for anyone avoiding cow's milk, English Goat's Cheddar can be used in exactly the same way as cow's milk Cheddar. Use in cooking, in sandwiches, on a cheeseboard or simply cut into cubes and serve as a quick snack.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Cricketer Half Fat Traditional Mature

Cricketer Farm has been making award-winning Cheddar for over 50 years and now they've developed a variety that has 50% less fat than a conventional Cheddar. Cricketer Half Fat Mature Cheese has all the character of a farmhouse Cheddar and a well-developed flavour. It is made at Stowey Court Farm in the village of Nether Stowey near Bridgewater in Somerset. Cricketer Half Fat Traditional Mature Cheese is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Grate Cricketer Half Fat Mature Cheese and use in cooking or to top baked potatoes or slice and use in sandwiches.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Davidstow Cheddar

Davidstow Cheddar has been made in north Cornwall for over 50 years to a traditional recipe. Davistow Cheddar is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians. Mature Davidstow is specially matured and selected to give a smooth, rich and creamy full-bodied flavour, at the 2001 British Cheese Awards it won a silver medal. It is available prepacked and from the service counter at Waitrose. Extra Mature Davidstow Cheddar is a well-developed Cheddar which has been selected to give a unique, rich, fuller flavour.

Uses: Serve Mature or Extra Mature Davidstow Cheddar in traditional West country style with a chunk of crusty bread and a glass of cider. Create a Cornish cheeseboard and serve with Cornish Brie and Cornish Village Green Goat's Cheese.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Denhay West Country Farmhouse Cheddar

Denhay Farm Cheddar is traditionally hand-made using milk solely from the herd of Friesian cows at Denhay Farm in Dorset. Denhay Cheddar is a West Country Farmhouse Cheddar which has Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) protection his means it has been made using local milk from one of four West country counties, (Dorset, Somerset, Devon or Cornwall). The PDO acts as a guarantee that the cheese has been made on the farm by hand, using authenticated methods. It is made from pasteurised milk and is suitable for vegetarians, there are three varieties of Denhay Cheddar. Denhay Traditional West Country Farmhouse Cheddar is an award winning cheese (it won a silver medal at the British Cheese Awards in 2001) and has a full distinctive flavour and a firm texture. It is typically matured for one year. Denhay West Country Farmhouse Extra Mature Cheddar is a vintage Cheddar which is typically matured for 16 months and Denhay West Country Farmhouse Mature Cheddar is matured for approximately 12 months. They are available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Serve for lunch in traditional West country style with a glass of cider and a chunk of warm crusty bread. Include in cooking where a rich, distinctive Cheddar flavour is required eg in soufflés, omelettes and quiches.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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English Cheddar

Waitrose offer a choice of own label English Cheddars, choose from Mild English Cheddar which has a creamy flavour and a smooth body and a close texture. It is a young cheese and very versatile, it is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked and from the service counter. Medium English Cheddar is a firm-bodied cheese with a more developed creamy flavour and is also available prepacked in blocks, ready grated (in 250g packs), ready sliced (10 slices per pack) and from the service counter. Mature English Cheddar is a full bodied cheese with a slightly nutty flavour, it is available prepacked in blocks and ready grated (in 250g packs), from Waitrose. Mild, medium and mature prepacked block Cheddar are all made by Coombe Farm. This gives them their distinctive fine aroma and flavour as a farmhouse cheesemaker's expertise is used to produce a creamery Cheddar.

Uses: Mild English Cheddar is ideal for sandwiches or salads where a subtle cheese flavour is required, it is ideal as a snack for children. Medium English Cheddar can be used to flavour soups, sauces, stuffings and soufflés. Use Mature English Cheddar where a strong Cheddar flavour is required, sprinkle over baked potatoes or include in quiches and pies.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Farmhouse Cheesemakers Cheddar

Farmhouse Cheesemakers Cheddar is a West Country Farmhouse Cheddar which has Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) protection, this means it has been made using local milk from one of four West country counties, (Dorset, Somerset, Devon or Cornwall). The PDO acts as a guarantee that the cheese has been made on the farm by hand, using authenticated methods. It is suitable for vegetarians, choose from: West Country Farmhouse Mature Cheddar (available prepacked from Waitrose) or Premium Handmade Traditional Unpasteurised Cheddar, also available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Include in cheese sauce to serve with cod and mashed potatoes, sprinkle over tacos or use to make cheese pastry for pies or pasties. Serve on a cheeseboard with black and green grapes as an alternative to dessert.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Green's Farmhouse Cheddar

Made in Glastonbury since 1920 by the Green family, Green's Cheddar is a West Country Farmhouse Cheddar which has Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) protection, this means it has been made using local milk from one of four West country counties, (Dorset, Somerset, Devon or Cornwall). The PDO acts as a guarantee that the cheese has been made on the farm by hand, using authenticated methods. Green's Glastonbury Farmhouse Cheddar is a full flavoured, tangy cheese with a subtle hint of onions. Green's Organic Farmhouse Cheddar has a full, strong, mature flavour and a pleasing, open texture. This Cheddar is still made in 50lb cylinders that are cloth bound, rather than in modern blocks. Both varieties of Green's Farmhouse Cheddar are made from pasteurised milk, are suitable for vegetarians and are available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve with organic biscuits or bread, grate and mix with wholegrain mustard to make cheese on toast or use to make cheese scones.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Half Fat

Half Fat Cheese has half the fat (approximately 16 per cent), of a typical Cheddar cheese. Choose from Medium, a mellow creamy cheese or Mature which has a more developed flavour. Both cheeses are made from pasteurised milk, are suitable for vegetarians and are available prepacked from Waitrose. Half Fat Cheese is also available ready grated in 250g packs.

Uses: Include in salads or grate and sprinkle over baked potatoes or pasta dishes.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Irish

Two varieties of Irish Cheddar are available from Waitrose, they are both made with milk from cows grazing on the lush spring and summer pastures of Southern Ireland. Irish Mature Cheddar is a full-flavoured Cheddar with a distinctive bite. Irish Medium Cheddar is a mellow rounded Cheddar. Both types of Irish Cheddar are made from pasteurised milk, are suitable for vegetarians and are available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Serve with soda farls (traditional Irish bread) or grate and add to champ (a popular Irish dish of mashed potato and spring onions). For a classic Irish cheeseboard serve Irish Cheddar with Ardrahan, Irish Cashel Blue and Carrigaline cheeses.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Keens West Country Farmhouse Cheddar

The Keen family have been making cheese at Moorhayes Farm, Wincantonin Somerset for over 100 years. Keens Cheddar is made in the traditional way using unpasteurised milk from their own herd of cows. It has a moist texture with a tangy bite and a full-bodied flavour. Keens Cheddar is a West Country Farmhouse Cheddar which has Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) protection, this means it has been made using local milk from one of four West country counties, (Somerset, Dorset, Devon or Cornwall). The PDO acts as a guarantee that the cheese has been made on the farm by hand, using authenticated methods. Keens West Country Farmhouse Cheddar won a bronze medal at the 2001 British Cheese Awards and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve simply with biscuits or bread and a glass of red wine or cider or include on a cheeseboard. Keens is also ideal for use in cooking and adds a rich flavour to sauces, bakes and pies.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Living Half Fat Mature

A mature cheese with 50 per cent less fat than mature Cheddar cheese, Living Half Fat Mature Cheese contains approximately 16 per cent fat. It has a distinctive full flavour and a smooth creamy texture. Living Half Fat Mature Cheese is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available Prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Include in salad, sandwiches or sauces or sprinkle over baked potatoes or pasta dishes.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Lye Cross Organic Farmhouse Cheddar

This mature organic Cheddar has a full slightly sharp flavour with a firm texture. The cheese is produced in the Somerset village of Redhill at Lye Cross Farm. It is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve Lye Cross Organic Cheddar with warm organic bread and a glass of Somerset cider. Include on a cheeseboard with a selection of organic British cheeses such as Organic Somerset Brie, Organic Welsh Goat's Cheese and Organic Cropwell Bishop Stilton.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Montgomery's Cheddar

This full-flavoured Cheddar is made at Manor Farm in North Cadbury, Somerset. Three generations of the Montgomery family have used the same ingredients and hand-made methods since 1912 to produce a Cheddar cheese with a deep nutty flavour and crisp texture. Montgomery's Cheddar is matured over 12 months in muslin bandages to produce the strong, full flavour. It is made from unpasteurised milk and is available as part of the Waitrose Select range of prepacked cheeses.

Uses: Serve Montgomery's Cheddar on a cheeseboard with fresh figs or slices of melon, or grate and use to make a delicious flavoured cheese bread or sprinkle over wild mushroom risotto.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Mull of Kintyre Vintage Cheddar

A Scottish Cheddar that is aged for a minimum of 18 months to give it its distinctive rounded creamy flavour and smooth texture. Mull of Kintyre Vintage Cheddar is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Include in cheese sauce to serve with leeks or cauliflower or grate and add to a layered potato bake.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Newton Farm Oak Smoked Cheddar

A traditional farmhouse Cheddar smoked over oak chips. It has a distinctive smoky flavour and aroma which complements the nutty Cheddar flavour. Newtown Farm Oak Smoked Cheddar is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Use to make a tasty cheese sauce to pour over mixed seafood, cod and salmon. Include in a filling for stuffed peppers or sprinkle over a mashed potato topped pie before baking.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Weight Watcher's 97% Fat Free Mature

A mature Cheddar-style cheese which contains 3% fat. It is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Include in salads, sandwiches or sauces or sprinkle over baked potatoes or pasta dishes.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Cheshire

A white cheese that has a loose, moist and crumbly texture and a mild or mellow flavour. It has a slightly salty flavour that feels dry in the mouth, this distinctive characteristic is due to the salt deposits that occur in the pasturelands where the cheese is made. Cheshire is though to be the oldest British cheese, dating back to before the Romans settled in Cheshire and north Shropshire and it was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. As well as being made in Cheshire this popular cheese is produced in Shropshire and Staffordshire. Waitrose stock a choice of different types of Cheshire, including:

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Appleby's Cheshire

The Appleby family have a history of cheesemaking that spans several generations. A combination of fine quality milk, the skill of the cheesemaker and the art of maturing gives this cheese its unique texture and flavour. Appleby's Cheshire is hand-made from unpasteurised milk at Hawkstone Abbey Farm on the edge of the Cheshire plain. It is the only hand-made cloth bound Cheshire to be produced in the old-fashioned way. Appleby's is available prepacked as part of the Waitrose Select range of cheeses and is suitable for vegetarians.

Uses: Serve with a selection of cheeses such as Cornish Brie, Stilton and Cheddar to create an English cheeseboard. Or serve simply with grapes or apple slices. Cheshire cheese was traditionally served with rich fruit cake.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Belton Farmhouse Organic White Cheshire

An organic Cheshire with a crumbly texture and full-bodied fresh flavour. This variety of Cheshire is made on Belton Farm in north Shropshire on the border of Cheshire and Clwyd. Belton Farmhouse Organic White Cheshire is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve with pickles, celery and crusty bread as a ploughman's lunch. Cheshire cheese goes particularly well with eggs - add to omelettes or soufflés made with organic eggs.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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White Cheshire

A crumbly cheese with a refreshing lemony flavour. Prepacked White Cheshire is available from Waitrose.

Uses: Serve as a snack with fruit or crudités or with slices of fruit cake or apple pie.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Comté

Also known as Gruyère de Comté, this semi-hard French cow's milk cheese is made in the Jura mountains where isolated farms had to produce a cheese that would keep long enough to be taken to distant markets. Comté has a flat, grey, yellow ochre rind which when cut reveals a firm centre that melts in the mouth. It has the characteristic strong, fruity, almost sweet flavour that is typical of cheese made with rich alpine milk. Waitrose sell organic Comté as part of their Select range of prepacked cheeses.

Uses: Comté is delicious served as part of a cheeseboard or serve with walnuts and a green salad dressed with walnut oil.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Cornish Yarg

A mild flavoured semi-hard cow's milk vegetarian cheese with a slight citrus tang, Cornish Yarg has a moist and supple texture and is named after the couple who first made it (Yarg is Gray spelt backwards). The cheese is wrapped in nettles which give it a very subtle flavour and also provides an attractive colour contrast to the creamy white interior. As the cheese develops a natural greyish mould may develop on the nettles. Cornish Yarg won a gold medal at the British Cheese Awards in 2001 for the Best Flavour Added Cheese. It is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at 110 branches of Waitrose

Uses: Serve with a selection of British cheeses on a cheeseboard or slice and serve with warm bread, sliced apple or pear and a fruity chutney.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Curworthy

A creamy-textured, full flavoured traditional farmhouse hard cheese that has an open texture and a rich buttery taste that develops with age. Based on a 17th century recipe, Curworthy cheese is hand-made by Rachel Stevens on Stockbeare Farm near Okehampton in Devon. It is made with the unpasteurised milk from the farm's own Friesian cows and is matured for three to four months. Curworthy has a distinctive black wax coating. It is available prepacked as part of the Select range of cheeses at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve on a cheeseboard or use in cooking, Curworthy is a particularly good melting cheese and can be grated and sprinkled over potato topped pies, omelettes or cauliflower cheese before melting under a preheated grill.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Devon Oke

A locally produced creamy textured, full bodied, pasteurised cow's milk cheese, Devon Oke is a mature Curworthy cheese. It is handmade by Rachel Stevens at Stockbearne Farm near Okehampton (hence its name) in Devon using milk from the farm's own Friesian cows. Devon Oke is available from the service counter at selected branches of Waitrose.

Uses: Devon Oke can be served on a cheeseboard or grated and included in sauces, salads, sandwiches or sprinkled over pasta bakes or potato topped pies and grilled.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Double Gloucester

Double Gloucester has been made in Gloucestershire since the 16th century and was traditionally made from milk produced by Old Gloucester cattle. It is a hard, pale orangey cheese with a creamy, almost buttery, nutty flavour and a flaky texture. Double Gloucester is made from whole milk and is much creamier than Single Gloucester. Waitrose stock a variety of different types of Double Gloucester cheese, choose from:

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Belton Farm Organic Double Gloucester

A buttery and firm-bodied cheese with a clean, creamy, mellow flavour made at Belton Farm in Shropshire. Belton Farm Double Gloucester is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve with a selection of English cheeses on a cheeseboard or grate and sprinkle over baked potatoes or add to salads.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Double Gloucester

The whole milk in this medium Double Gloucester give the cheese a buttery taste and a mellow nutty flavour. Double Gloucester is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Grate and use to make a delicious cheese on toast, or add to omelettes, pasta dishes or risottos.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Double Gloucester with chives and onions

A Double Gloucester flavoured with chives and onions which complements the buttery flavour of the cheese. Double Gloucester with Chives and Onions is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Serve with crusty bread and sweet onion relish or add to quiches or any cooked dish where a subtle onion flavour is desired.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Half Fat Double Gloucester

With approximately 16 per cent fat, Half Fat Double Gloucester cheese has half the fat of a typical Double Gloucester cheese. It is a medium strength cheese and has a smooth, creamy texture. It is made from pasteurised milk and Half Fat Double Gloucester is available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Include in salads or grate and sprinkle over baked potatoes or pasta dishes.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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West Country Double Gloucester

A hand-made traditional Double Gloucester cheese. Farmhouse Cheesemakers Double Gloucester It is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Serve on a cheeseboard with a selection of West country cheeses such as Cornish Brie, Dorset Blue Vinny and mature Cheddar. Slice or grate and serve in rolls with fruity chutney.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Double Worcester

A full fat hard cheese with a robust and mellow flavour and a rich golden colour, Double Worcester won a silver medal at the British Cheese Awards in 2001. Double Worcester has a really smooth, light texture with a subtle citrus tang and is a smaller version of Double Gloucester. It is made by Colin and Alyson Anstey at Broomhall Farm, Worcester, which has been in their family for four generations. Double Worcester is made from unpasteurised milk and is suitable for vegetarians, it is available from the service counter at 55 branches of Waitrose.

Uses: Double Worcester can be served on a cheeseboard or used for grilling or sauces.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Emmental Reserve

A firm rich cheese easily recognised by its large holes (which are produced by trapped bubbles of gas in the production process). It is a pale yellow colour and has a mild, sweetish flavour, similar to Gruyère. Emmantal Reserve is made from unpasteurised milk and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Use uncooked and cooked - it is a very good melting cheese.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Fowlers Sage Derby

A farm-made mature Derby cheese which is layered and topped with a sprinkling of fresh sage which gives it its subtle green colour. Made by Fowlers of Earlswood in the West Midlands, Derby cheese has a nutty mature taste that goes well with the herby sage flavour. Fowlers Sage Derby won a silver medal at the 2001 British Cheese Awards and is made from pasteurised milk and is available from the service counter at 109 branches of Waitrose.

Uses: Serve with crusty bread and pickles as part of a ploughman's lunch or add to sauces, pasta dishes or quiches.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Goat's cheese:

Village Green Goat's Cheese

A full fat, clean and fruity hard vegetarian goat's cheese with a smooth texture. It is similar in texture and taste to a mild Cheddar and has a subtle roasted nut flavour. Village Green is made with pasteurised milk and is covered in a distinctive green wax. It is available from the service counter at 124 branches of Waitrose and is suitable for vegetarians.

Uses: Ideal as a useful alternative for anyone avoiding cow's milk. Good served with a selection of cheeses such as Cornish Yarg, Dorset Blue Vinny and Somerset Brie for a West country cheeseboard. Or simply serve with slices of apple and a glass of red wine.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Woolsery Goat's Cheese

A moist, open textured semi-hard modern British cheese with a subtle but distinctive goat's milk taste that hints of almonds and pinenuts. Woolsery Goat's Cheese is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is locally produced near Sydling St Nicholas in Dorset and won the Cheese Lovers Trophy at the British Cheese Awards in 2001. It is available from the service counter at the Gillingham (Dorset), Ringwood and Salisbury branches of Waitrose.

Uses: Serve with green grapes and slices of apple and biscuits or drizzle with a little honey and balsamic vinegar and grill until just melting, serve with crusty bread.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard, remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Gruyère Reserve

Gruyère is named after the Swiss village where it was originally made. It is a hard, pale yellow cheese with small holes. Its distinctive flavour is mellow, nutty and rich.

Uses: Gruyère Reserve can be used cooked or uncooked. It is a good melting cheese to combine with the stronger flavour of Parmesan. It is made from unpasteurised milk and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Harlech

A mature Welsh vegetarian Cheddar flavoured with fresh horseradish and parsley. Harlech cheese is coated in a distinctive bright orange waxed cover and is made from pasteurised milk. It is available from the service counter at the Monmouth branch of Waitrose.

Uses: Serve with a selection of Welsh cheese on a cheeseboard or grate and add to sauces, omelettes or use in sandwiches.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Lancashire

A white cheese made from cow's milk. Lancashire ranges in flavour and texture from mild and very crumbly when young to a fuller flavoured, firmer textured cheese as it matures. Lancashire cheese was a popular food among mill workers during the Industrial Revolution. Traditionally made on Lancashire farms, nowadays Lancashire cheese production is not restricted to the county. Waitrose stock a variety of different types of Lancashire cheese, choose from:

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Kirkham's Lancashire

This award winning cheese is individually hand-made from unpasteurised milk at the Kirkham's family farm in Goosnargh on the slopes of Beacon Fell in the heart of Lancashire. It is made using three day curd to give a subtly mottled, unique texture. Each cheese is handturned and rubbed to develop the unique rind. Kirkham's Lancashire is part of the Select range of prepacked cheeses available from Waitrose and is available from 62 branches.

Uses: Serve simply with biscuits and celery or use to make really creamy cheese on toast.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Lancashire

A full bodied, slightly milky, crumbly cheese with a zesty flavour. Waitrose mild Lancashire has a tangy finish, is made with pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked.

Uses: Serve with fruit as a dessert cheese or cube and use in salads or grate and use in cooking.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Organic Farmhouse Lancashire

A traditional crumbly cheese with a fresh, buttery flavour made by the Sandham family at Rostock Dairy, Barton near Preston for over 70 years. Organic farmhouse Lancashire cheese is made from rich and creamy organic Jersey, pasteurised milk that comes from a pedigree herd of local Jersey cows and is available from the service counter at 124 branches of Waitrose.

Uses: Use uncooked or cooked it is particularly good crumbled or grated and grilled or added to soups and cauliflower cheese. Lancashire cheese is traditionally served with a slice of fruit cake or apple pie.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Lincolnshire Poacher

A robust full-flavoured hard cheese made from unpasteurised milk from Holstein cows. Lincolnshire poacher has a similar earthy flavour to Cheddar but has a more open texture, it is pale yellow in colour and has an inedible grainy brown rind. It won a gold medal at the British Cheese Awards in 2001 and is available from the service counter at the Daventry and Newark branches of Waitrose.

Uses: It is suitable for grating and grilling or can be served in chunks with pickled onions and crusty bread for a quick lunch.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Little Derby

A strong-tasting hard cheese that has a buttery appearance with an orange rind, Little Derby was a bronze medal winner at the British Cheese Awards in 2001. Little Derby is so called not because of its size (the individual cheeses are around 40cm in diameter and weigh over 10kg) but because it is made outside Derbyshire it is made in Earlswood in Warwickshire by the Fowler family. Little Derby is a locally produced cheese made from pasteurised milk and is available from the service counter at the Hall Green, Kidderminster, Evington, Blaby, Sutton Coldfield, Stourbridge and Great Malvern branches of Waitrose.

Uses: Little Derby can be used in similar ways to Cheddar, it is ideal for cooking and grating or for serving on the cheeseboard. On its own it goes very well with either a glass of beer or red wine.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Lord of the Hundreds Ewe's Milk

A firm curd cheese with a sweet, nutty flavour that is a distinctive characteristic of sheep's milk cheese. Lord of the Hundreds is made from unpasteurised milk and is suitable for vegetarians. It is available from the service counter at 120 branches of Waitrose.

Uses: Serve with fresh figs or slices of pear and crusty bread or with a selection of other British cheeses on a cheeseboard.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Malvern Ewe's Milk Cheese

A sweet ewe's milk vegetarian cheese with a nutty flavour and a buttery texture made from pasteurised milk. Malvern ewe's milk cheese is made by Nick Hodgetts near Malvern in Worcestershire. This locally produced cheese is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at the Kidderminster, Witney, Stourbridge, Stroud, Cirencester and Great Malvern branches of Waitrose.

Uses: Malvern can be served cooked or uncooked. Serve with slices of apple and pear and a glass of dry cider or grate and add to quiches, sauces or omelettes.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Manchego

This popular Spanish cheese is from the La Mancha region and is made from the milk of the Manchego breed of sheep. It is a full fat cheese with a firm white, creamy flesh, and a yellow rind. It has a nutty, briny flavour. Manchego is made from pasteurised milk and is available at the service counter of Waitrose.

Uses: Manchego is a good melting cheese and is mainly used as a grating cheese in recipes.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Meldon

A type of Curworthy cheese (see separate entry) flavoured with wholegrain mustard and Chiltern ale. Meldon has a creamy texture which complements the mustard and ale flavourings. It is made from pasteurised milk and is suitable for vegetarians. It is handmade at Stockbearne Farm near Okehampton in Devon using milk from the farm's own Friesian cows. This locally produced cheese is available from the service counter at the Okehampton, Saltash and Sidmouth branches of Waitrose.

Uses: Serve with crusty white bread and a glass of real ale for a simple lunch or grate and use to make cheese on toast. Meldon makes a tasty addition to a cheeseboard serve with a selection of other West country cheeses such as Cornish Yarg, Somerset Camembert and Dorset Blue Vinny.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Norfolk White Lady

A soft, slightly sharp sheep's milk cheese. Norfolk White Lady is a locally produced cheese and is hand-made at Poppylot Farm in Feltwell near Norfolk. It is made from unpasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at the Peterborough, St Ives (Cambridgshire), Bury St Edmunds, Newmarket, Huntingdon, Ely, Eaton, Trumpington and Wymondham branches of Waitrose.

Uses: Serve on a cheeseboard with a selection of English cheeses or with wholemeal bread and slices of apple for a quick lunch.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Parmagiano Reggiano

or Parmesan as it is more widley known, originates from Parma in Italy and is one of the world's most popular and widely-enjoyed cheeses. It has a very hard grainy texture and is a pale yellow colour. It has a very distinctive smell and flavour. It is made from unpasteurised milk and is available prepacked or from the service counter at Waitrose. Organic, ready-grated and shaved Parmesan are available. Ready grated dried Parmesan can be bought in tubs.

Uses: Grate it uncooked on hot dishes or mix it with softer, milder cheeses and include in sauces, pies and pasties. It can also be cut into bite-sized pieces and served with ripe pears, apples, peaches, figs or grapes for dessert. For an impressive-looking finishing touch for any pasta dish, make Parmesan shavings with a potato peeler. Use dried Parmesan in sauces or cooked dishes, but choose fresh Parmesan for sprinkling over pasta dishes or salads.

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Pecorino

A hard, grainy cheese which is similar to Parmesan. It has a sharp flavour and is made from unpasteurised sheep's milk. There are several varieties of pecorino available, the most well-known is pecorino romano and is available prepacked at Waitrose.

Uses: Pecorino can be served as part of a cheeseboard and goes particularly well with grapes and melon. It is also used in cooking and is a good grating cheese.

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Port Salut

A semi-hard French cow's milk cheese which is characterised by its distinctive bright orange rind and pale yellow interior. It was originally made by the monks of the abbey of Notre Dame de Port Salut in Mayenne, Brittany. It gives off a pungent aroma but has a mellow flavour and a smooth, springy texture. Port Salut is made from pasteurised milk and is available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Port Salut is delicious served with fruit, bread or biscuits.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard, remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Processed

Processed cheeses are usually made with a blend of different types of one variety eg several types of Cheddar may be used to make a processed Cheddar or from a blend of different varieties for example Bavarian smoked cheese which is made from Emmental. Cheddar and Gouda. The cheeses are heated to prevent further ripening - this process extends the shelf life of the cheese. Processed cheeses are made using pasteurised milk and are available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Good served as part of a cheeseboard or with a selection of cold meats.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Raclette

A pale-coloured, semi-hard cow's milk, mountain cheese that has tiny holes and a thin light brown-coloured rind. It has a mild flavour when eaten uncooked but it is best served melted when it has a full, nutty sweet flavour. It is made from pasteurised milk and is available pre packed from Waitrose.

Uses: Raclette can be eaten uncooked, but is best cooked when it melts really well. Slices of the cheese can be baked in the oven to make a delicious traditional Swiss dip for crusty bread, cubes of potato, gherkins or cocktail onions.

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Red Leicester

This distinctive rich, orangey red coloured cheese has a flaky, slightly open texture and a subtle nutty and butterscotch flavour. Red Leicester cheese was originally made on farms surrounding the city to use up excess milk left over from the production of Stilton cheese. It was thought to be originally coloured with carrot juice to give it its distinctive red colour. Nowadays it is coloured with annatto, a tasteless vegetable dye from a South American plant of the same name. It is traditionally made in a large cartwheel shape. Choose from the following types of Red Leicester at Waitrose:

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Belton Farm Organic Red Leicester

A slightly nutty flavoured organic Red Leicester which becomes sharper with age and is made at Belton Farm in Shropshire. Belton Farm Organic Red Leicester is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Red Leicester can be served with chunks of bread and watercress for a quick lunch or serve on a cheeseboard to add colour and flavour.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Half Fat Red Leicester

A medium flavoured cheese with half the fat of a typical Red Leicester. Half Fat Red Leicester cheese contains approximately 16 per cent fat. It is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Include in salads or grate and sprinkle over baked potatoes or pasta dishes.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Red Leicester

A russet red cheese with a clean, mellow and tangy flavour. Red Leicester is typically matured for 4?5 months. Red Leicester is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked and from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Red Leicester is a good melting cheese and gives sauces and soups an attractive colour and distinctive flavour.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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St Illyd

A mature Welsh vegetarian Cheddar flavoured with white wine, garlic and herbs. St Illyd is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at the Monmouth branch of Waitrose.

Uses: Serve with a selection of Welsh cheeses on a cheeseboard or grate and sprinkle over leek and potato soup, omelettes or salads. St Illyd is also delicious for making cheese on toast.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard, remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Shropshire Blue

Despite its name this cheese has no connection with Shropshire. It was originally made in Scotland early last century and is now more commonly produced in Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire. Shropshire blue has a rich blue taste with a buttery, caramel flavour and a firm, creamy but slightly crumbly texture. It is similar to Stilton (and is made in exactly the same way) but is easily distinguished by its bright orange colour (created by the addition of annatto, a natural dye) which provides an attractive colour contrast to the blue veining. Waitrose stock a choice of different types of Shropshire Blue that are made from pasteurised milk, choose from:

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Cropwell Bishop Shropshire Blue

Made in the village of Cropwell Bishop in Nottinghamshire at a small family run creamery this Shropshire Blue is a well-balanced cheese with a medium spicy flavour. Cropwell Bishop Shropshire Blue won two gold medals at the British Cheese Awards in 2001 for Best Blue and Best Traditional British Cheese. It is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Shropshire Blue makes an impressive-looking table cheese serve with a selection of English cheeses on a cheeseboard. Add to baked potatoes or cheese sauce for a rich, tasty result.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Shopshire Blue

A slightly crumbly medium blue vegetarian cheese with a buttery flavour and a mellow blue tang. Prepacked Shropshire Blue is available from Waitrose.

Uses: Serve with bread or biscuits and grapes or add to quiches or pasta salads.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Single Gloucester

Single Gloucester is a light, crumbly hard cheese, lower in fat than the more widely available Double Gloucester and suitable for vegetarians. This locally produced vegetarian cheese has a subtle buttery flavour and a hint of sweetness. Single Gloucester is a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) cheese which guarantees it has been made on the farm by hand, using authenticated methods. Single Gloucester is made with unpasteurised cow's milk by Charles Martell at Laurel Farm, Dymock, Gloucestershire. It won a gold medal at the British Cheese Awards in 2001 and is available from the service counter at the Witney, Stroud, Monmouth, Cirencester and Great Malvern branches of Waitrose.

Uses: Single Gloucester is a versatile cheese, serve in sandwiches, with bread as a ploughman's lunch or grate and use to make cheese on toast, sprinkle over soups, pasta dishes or salads.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Smoked

Smoked cheese has a flavour all of its own. The cheese is smoked over embers - the type of wood or chips used will determine the final flavour of the product. Smoked cheeses are made from pasteurised milk and are available prepacked from Waitrose. Types available include: Bavarian smoked.

Uses: Good served as part of a cheeseboard or with crusty bread.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Stilton

Stilton is one of the most popular and well-known British cheeses. Blue Stilton is a rich and creamy semi-hard cheese with a nutty aroma. It has a rich, mellow flavour which strengthens as it matures, and an abundance of blue veins. White Stilton has a slightly crumbly texture and a mild, light flavour. Stilton was traditionally best at Christmas when the cheeses were made in early autumn from milk enriched by late summer meadows, and then matured through the following months. At the beginning of the 20th century Stilton cheesemakers formed an association to control how and where the cheese was made. They specified that Stilton could only be made in Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire or Leicestershire, this still applies today and Stilton is a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) cheese, which means it can only be made in these three counties. Port is the classic drink to accompany Stilton, but it also goes well with a sweet white wine or, more unusually, a white port. Waitrose stock a wide selection of Stilton, choose from:

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Colsten Bassett Stilton

This semi-soft blue veined cheese is made using pasteurised milk from five farms surrounding the village of Colston Bassett. The cheese is hand-made, using traditional methods, in a small Stilton dairy which dates back to 1913. It is the only dairy that still hand-ladles the curd in the traditional way. The Stilton has a unique flavour and texture and its aromatic taste comes from the rich flora in the local grass. Select Blue Stilton is available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Serve on a cheeseboard or slice and use to make deliciously creamy cheese on toast. Add to risottos or omelettes for a tangy cheese flavour.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Cropwell Bishop Stilton

A creamy full flavoured blue cheese, Cropwell Bishop Stilton won a gold medal for the Best Blue Cheese (export) at the British Cheese Awards in 2001. The cheese has an intense flavour, and the evenly spread blue veins add a spicy tang to the rich creaminess of the cheese. Cropwell Bishop Creamery is based on the border of Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire and is a small independent family run business dating back to 1847. Cropwell Bishop Stilton is made using pasteurised milk is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Stilton is one of the classic cheeses to include on a cheeseboard. Use Cropwell Bishop Stilton in cooking - try it in soup, on toast or sprinkled over pasta dishes. It is also delicious served after dinner with a glass of dessert wine or white port.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Cropwell Bishop Organic Stilton

A creamy balanced organic blue Stilton. It is made at the Cropwell Bishop Creamery which is based on the border of Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire and is a small independent family run business dating back to 1847. Cropwell Bishop Organic Stilton is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve as part of a ploughman's lunch with an apple and some crusty bread. Crumble and add to robustly flavoured salad leaves such as watercress or rocket or sprinkle over baked potatoes.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Mature Blue Stilton

Waitrose Mature Blue Stilton is matured for a richer, fuller flavour with a creamy texture and extensive blue veins. It won a silver medal at the 2001 British Cheese Awards. It is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Serve on a cheeseboard with a selection of other English cheeses such as Cheddar, Lancashire and Cornish Brie. Serve in crusty rolls with a sweet, fruity chutney or crumble and toss with crisply cooked bacon, cooked pasta and a little olive oil.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Medium Blue Stilton

Waitrose Medium Blue Stilton has a rich flavour with a smooth creamy texture and a lasting tangy finish. It is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked from Waitrose.

Uses: Add to soups or sauces or sprinkle over pasta dishes. Combine crumbled Medium Blue Stilton with cooked new potatoes, chopped ham and a ready-made salad dressing and serve with wholemeal bread for a quick supper.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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White Stilton with Apricots

A young, fresh, slightly sharp white Stilton flavoured with apricots. White Stilton with Apricots is available is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked and from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve on a cheeseboard with water biscuits and celery or crumble over salad leaves with hot crispy bacon and a drizzle of chilli flavoured olive oil for a simple supper.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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White Stilton with Ginger

A fresh and creamy white Stilton with a hint of stem ginger. White Stilton with Ginger is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at selected branches of Waitrose.

Uses: Serve on a cheeseboard or with wholemeal bread and apple slices for a quick lunch.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Sussex Yeoman

A hard-pressed goat's milk vegetarian cheese, with a moist, but crumbly texture, and distinctly nutty flavour. Sussex Yeoman is made at Nut Knowle Farm near Horam in East Sussex. It is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Sussex Yeoman is suitable for use on a cheeseboard or in cooking.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Swaledale

A creamy full flavoured cow's milk traditional Yorkshire cheese with an earthy almost grassy taste. It has a subtle acidity and is softer and moister than Wensleydale which is produced in the next valley. Swaledale is hand-made in Richmond, the gateway to Swaledale, by David and Mandy Reed and is left open to the air to mature which results in a hard, natural rind with a bluey grey mould. It is suitable for vegetarians, made using pasteurised milk and is available from the service counter at selected branches of Waitrose. Swaledale won a silver medal at the British Cheese Awards in 2001.

Uses: Use Swaledale to make cheese and pickle sandwiches, or serve it with tomato chutney, celery and wholemeal bread.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard, remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Tintern

A mature Cheddar flavoured with fresh chives and shallots. Tintern cheese is locally produced and has a distinctive green wax cover. It is made using pasteurised milk available from the service counter at the Monmouth branch of Waitrose.

Uses: Can be used cooked or uncooked. Try Tintern in sandwiches or salads or use in Welsh Rarebit or a cheese soufflé.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Warwickshire Truckle

A full flavoured mature cheese with a firm but creamy texture. Warwickshire Truckle is locally produced at Fowlers Forest Dairies in Earlswood. It is made from pasteurised milk and is available from the service counter at the Hall Green, Kidderminster, Sutton Coldfield, Stourbridge and Great Malvern branches of Waitrose.

Uses: Serve sliced in crusty rolls with a fruity pickle and a glass of real ale or serve instead of Cheddar on a cheeseboard with a selection of British cheeses.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard, remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Wensleydale

A white, close-textured cheese that has a slightly sweet flavour. It was first made by Cistercian monks in the 13th century in Wensleydale in North Yorkshire. Wenslydale is made using pasteurise milk and Waitrose stock a variety of different types, choose from:

Blue Wensleydale

Dating back to shortly after the Norman Conquest this cheese was brought to Wensleydale by the Cistercian monks of Jervauix Abbey from the Roquefort region of France, the famous blue cheese making region. All Wensleydale cheese was blue until the mid 19th century. Blue Wensleydale is made to an original recipe that makes a unique creamy mellow blue cheese that has a genuine smoothness in texture and taste. Blue Wensleydale is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked as part of the Select range of cheeses at Waitrose.

Uses: Crumble and add to salads or pasta dishes or serve with warm bread and sliced tomatoes for a quick lunch or on a cheeseboard.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Hawes Wensleydale

Made by hand using Wensleydale milk and traditional methods, this variety of Wensleydale has a fresh creamy flavour and firm, flaky texture. It has a slightly sweet honeyed aroma. Traditional Wensleydale is made in Hawes using pasteurised milk in Wensleydale and is available prepacked or from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve simply with crackers or white crusty bread and fresh fruit such as grapes or melon slices.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Oak Smoked Wensleydale

Traditionally made at Hawes in the Yorkshire Dales this variety of Wensleydale is naturally smoked using real oak to give the cheese a distinct but subtle flavour. Oak Smoked Wensleydale is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve with wedges of tangy eating apple such as Granny Smith's for a simple lunch or as an accompaniment to rich fruit cake. Alternatively try adding Oak Smoked Wensleydale to cheese sauce or use to make sandwiches. Or slice and serve with slices of melon and Parma ham as a simple starter.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Wensleydale

A crumbly moist textured cheese with a smooth, creamy flavour and a honey-like aftertaste. It is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available prepacked or from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: Serve as a table cheese, as an accompaniment to apple pie or a slice of fruit cake.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Wensleydale with cranberries

A fresh and creamy variety with a delicious fruity tang. Wensleydale with cranberries is made from pasteurised milk, is suitable for vegetarians and is available from the service counter at Waitrose.

Uses: The attractive red speckled appearance of this cheese makes it an ideal addition to a festive cheeseboard at Christmas.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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Wensleydale with garlic and chives (Garsdale)

A delicious flavoured variety of Wensleydale. Garsdale is available from the service counter at Waitrose. It has a moist and creamy texture with a hint of lemon and is suitable for vegetarians.

Uses: Serve in sandwiches or with oat cakes or crumble and sprinkle over vegetable soups such as celery or pea.

To eat: If serving on a cheeseboard remove the cheese from the fridge an hour before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature and to develop its full texture and flavour.

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