Craving fontina? discover the truth about kroger’s stash

Yes, Kroger proudly offers a selection of Fontina cheese to satisfy your culinary cravings. This delectable cheese, hailing from the Val d’Aosta region of Italy, is renowned for its creamy texture, nutty flavor, and versatility in various dishes.

What is Fontina Cheese?

Fontina cheese is a semi-hard, cow’s milk cheese with a distinctive pale yellow hue. It is characterized by its smooth, supple texture that melts beautifully. The flavor profile of Fontina cheese is well-balanced, offering a delicate nuttiness with a hint of sweetness and a slightly acidic finish.

Varieties of Fontina Cheese at Kroger

Kroger offers a range of Fontina cheese varieties to cater to diverse tastes and culinary needs:

• Fontina Val d’Aosta DOP: This authentic Fontina cheese is produced in the Val d’Aosta region of Italy and bears the prestigious DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) certification.
• Fontina Young: A milder and creamier version of Fontina cheese, ideal for sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
• Fontina Aged: A more mature and flavorful Fontina cheese with a firmer texture and a more pronounced nutty flavor.
• Fontina Shredded: Conveniently shredded Fontina cheese, perfect for quick and easy dishes like pizzas, pasta, and casseroles.

Culinary Uses of Fontina Cheese

Fontina cheese is a versatile ingredient that enhances a wide array of culinary creations:

• Fondue: Fontina’s melting qualities make it an excellent choice for creamy and indulgent fondue.
• Pizza: A sprinkle of Fontina cheese over your favorite pizza adds a nutty and flavorful touch.
• Pasta: Fontina cheese is a classic ingredient in various pasta dishes, including macaroni and cheese, lasagna, and baked ziti.
• Sandwiches: Fontina cheese’s smooth texture and mild flavor make it a perfect addition to sandwiches and paninis.
• Salads: Fontina cheese adds a creamy and nutty element to salads, complementing both fresh and grilled vegetables.

Nutritional Value of Fontina Cheese

In addition to its culinary delights, Fontina cheese also boasts a range of nutritional benefits:

• Calcium: Fontina cheese is an excellent source of calcium, essential for bone and teeth health.
• Protein: Fontina cheese is a good source of protein, providing essential amino acids for growth and repair.
• Vitamins: Fontina cheese contains vitamins A, B2, and B12, which play vital roles in various bodily functions.

How to Store Fontina Cheese

To preserve the freshness and flavor of Fontina cheese, it is important to store it properly:

• Refrigeration: Store Fontina cheese in the refrigerator at a temperature of 32-40°F (0-4°C).
• Wrapping: Wrap Fontina cheese tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss and contamination.
• Shelf Life: Properly stored Fontina cheese can last for up to 2 months in the refrigerator.

Where to Find Fontina Cheese at Kroger

Kroger offers Fontina cheese in the following sections of its stores:

• Deli Counter: Ask a deli associate to slice or shred Fontina cheese to your desired specifications.
• Cheese Section: Pre-packaged Fontina cheese blocks, slices, and shreds are available in the refrigerated cheese section.
• International Section: Some Kroger stores may carry imported Fontina cheese from Italy in their international section.

Alternatives to Fontina Cheese

If Fontina cheese is not available or does not suit your taste, consider these alternatives:

• Gruyère Cheese: A Swiss cheese with a similar nutty flavor and melting properties as Fontina cheese.
• Comté Cheese: A French cheese with a slightly firmer texture and a more pronounced nutty flavor than Fontina cheese.
• Emmental Cheese: A Swiss cheese with a slightly sweet and tangy flavor, often used as a substitute for Fontina cheese in fondue.

Popular Questions

1. Is Fontina cheese available at all Kroger stores?

While most Kroger stores carry a selection of Fontina cheese, availability may vary depending on location and store size.

2. Can I purchase Fontina cheese online from Kroger?

Kroger does not currently offer online ordering for Fontina cheese.

3. How can I identify high-quality Fontina cheese?

Look for Fontina cheese with a smooth, supple texture and a pale yellow color. Avoid cheese with any signs of mold or discoloration.

4. What is the best way to enjoy Fontina cheese?

Fontina cheese can be enjoyed on its own, melted in fondue, or added to various dishes like pasta, pizza, and sandwiches.

5. Can I freeze Fontina cheese?

Freezing Fontina cheese is not recommended as it can alter its texture and flavor upon thawing.