What is Rope cheese?

Rope Cheese String Cheese often referred to as string [cheese] is the type of mild-soft cheese that is pulled and stretched into long, string-like pieces. It’s commonly enjoyed as a snack or used in salads and sandwiches. You can’t make string/Rope cheese at home without specialized equipment.

Rope Cheese

This is the most common association with “string [cheese]” It’s a mild semi-soft cheese that has been stretched and pulled during production, resulting in long, string-like pieces. And often enjoyed on its own or paired with crackers with crackers, fruits, or vegetables.

Rope Cheese/String is typically made from mozzarella cheese, although other types of cheese can also be used. The cheese is heated to a high temperature, which causes the milk proteins to become stretchy. The cheese is then pulled and stretched until it forms long, thin strands. The strands are then cut into individual pieces and packaged. String cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, and it is also relatively low in calories and fat. It is a convenient and portable snack food that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Here are some facts about Rope Cheese

• It was first invented in the United States in 1976.
• The most popular brand of string in the United States is Kraft cheese.
• Rope cheese/String also called cheese sticks, Mozzarella sticks, and cheese strings.
• It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a couple of weeks.

How is Rope Cheese/String made

From Milk to Curd

• Pasteurization & Standardization of raw milk to remove harmful bacteria and to ensure consistent fat content
• Specific bacteria (starter cultures) are added to the milk to convert lactose (milk sugar) into lactic acid, initiating the cheesemaking process.
• Rennet, an enzyme, is added to coagulate the milk proteins (casein) into a soft gel-like mass called curd.
• Cutting & cooking the curd is carefully cut into small cubes, allowing whey (liquid portion) to separate. Heat is applied to cook the curd and expel more whey.

Stretching and Shaping

• The cooked curd is transferred to a stretching machine. Here it repeatedly stretched, Kneaded, and folded under controlled temperature and pressure. This aligns the casein proteins and develops the stringiness.
• Salt is added for flavor and preservation. Other flavorings like herbs or spices might be incorporated at this stage.
• The stretched and flavored curd is then shaped into a long using specialized equipment. Cold water is sprayed to cool and solidify the cheese.
• The log is cut into individual string sticks using high-speed cutters. Each stick is individually wrapped in a moisture-proof film to prevent drying and maintain freshness.

Additional Details

Milk Source

Most Rope cheese/ strings use mozzarella cheese, known for its excellent stretching properties. However, other types of milk like cheddar or Colby might be used for different string cheese variations.

Equipment

The stretching machines employed are complex and require precise temperature and pressure control to achieve the desired texture. Replicating this at home is a bit tough.

Variations

Variations like low-fat string /Rope cheese used modified fat milk or added ingredients to achieve a lower fat milk or added ingredients to achieve a lower fat content while maintaining texture.

Substitute for Rope cheese [String ]

• Syrian String ]: this recipe uses mozzarella and baking soda to achieve a stringy texture
• Oaxaca Cheese Sticks: This Mexican cheese has a naturally stringy texture and can be formed into sticks for a similar snacking experience.
• Homemade Mozzarella: While not exactly string, making your mozzarella allows you to experiment with different stretching techniques and achieve a close texture.

Here are a Few Brands of Rope Cheese 

“Rope cheese” and “string generally refer to the same type of cheese. Both terms are often used interchangeably to describe a type of cheese that has been stretched and pulled into long, thin strands or strings. This type of cheese is known for its fibrous and easily separable texture.

Here are a few brands of String [Rope cheese]

• Kraft String
• Sargento String
• Frigo String
• Horizon organic string
• 365 Everyday value string

Store Brands

• Kroger cheese
• Target simply balanced cheese
• Walmart’s great value string

Benefits of Rope Cheese

• Calcium that is essential for bone and teeth health
• Protein supports muscle building and satiety
• Selenium and vitamin B12 important for immune function

Nutritional information for one ounce (28 grams) 

Nutrient	Value	Note
Calories	80	None
Fat	5 grams	!
Saturated fat	3.5 grams	None
Trans fat	0	!
Cholesterol	15 Mg	!
Sodium	180 Mg	None
Carbohydrates	1 gram	None
Fiber	0	None
Sugar	1 gram	!
Protein	8 grams	!
Calcium	200 Mg	(20% DV)
Vitamin D	0	(0% DV)
Iron	0	(0% DV)
Potassium	0	(0% DV)

 

Frequently Asked Questions? (FAQ)

Is string cheese ok for gout?

Cheese, including string cheese, is generally low in purines, which makes it safer for those with gout. High-purine foods (meat and seafood) increase uric acid, worsening Gout symptoms. High-fat foods can sometimes trigger gout attacks because they slow down the removal of uric acid. Opt for lower fats because they contain fewer saturated fats.

When did string cheese?

String cheese was invented in 1976 by Frank Baker Cheese in Wisconsin, USA. The innovation came about when he discovered that heating mozzarella to the right temperature and stretching it in a particular way created a texture that allowed the cheese to be peeled into strings.

Is string cheese good for you?

Each stick typically has about 6-8 grams of protein, which helps with satiety and muscle repair. Calcium-rich it provides a good amount of calcium and supports bone health low in carbohydrates making it a convenient snack for low-carb and keto diets.

Is String cheese ok for Kidneys?

String cheese can be suitable for kidney health in moderation. It provides a good source of protein, but excessive protein intake may strain in the kidney, especially for those with advanced kidney disease. Some varieties of string cheese are high in sodium, which can impact blood pressure and kidney function.

Conclusion

Rope cheese offers potential benefits for overall well-being, primarily due to its nutrient content and convenience. However, its processed nature and limitations necessitate moderate consumption and attention to sodium intake. Weigh the benefits against potential drawbacks and consider them within the context of your overall dietary pattern and health goals. Be mindful of packaging waste and explore reusable alternatives.