What is cheesecloth

There are 2 kinds of open weave cheesecloth: first is the 10 grade, sizing up to 20x Next is the 20 grade, which has a 20x16 thread count. These two lower graded cheesecloths are generally the cheapest but disposable. Although they are loosely woven, the holes in the cloth are still close enough to block solids from passing through. Because of this, the lower grade cheesecloths are primarily used for draining and filtering.

They have a wide range of use too and they can be used for cleaning, polishing, and waxing. The finer weaves are Cheesecloths with units 50, 60, and These are 24x20, 28x24, and 32x38 thread counts, respectively. These finer weave cheesecloth can also be used for the same purposes as the open weave. However, they can be washed to be reused which makes them more economical compared to the lower grade weave.

Finer weave cheesecloth can be used in food preparation but it can also be used for paintings, furniture finishing, or as a cover for items. Last but certainly not least are the Extra Fine Weaves. They are the 80 and 90 units which are 40x32 and 44x36 thread counts, respectively. Of the 3 weaves, extra-fine weaves are the most expensive but they are the most durable.

They can be washed and reused for other purposes. These weaves are generally used to make cheeses and butter, dresses, book bindings, and even in making tea bags. Although cheesecloth is mostly used in the kitchen, it can be used in different tasks. Having one in your can be handy because of its versatility. Below is the list of the different uses of Cheesecloth inside and outside the kitchen.

Usually, strainers are used when it comes to separating water from solids. But in some recipes, it requires a finer sieve. This is where cheesecloth shines.

Make sure to properly rinse the cheesecloth before you use it to remove any lint on the fabric. With your strainer, put the cheesecloth on top like a layer. This is great for removing curds from yogurt, making homemade stock and juice, and filtering your coffee and tea. Another way to use cheesecloth is by using it for herbal infusions.

Straining can be difficult especially if you have to do it in big batches. Simply place your herbs and spices inside the cheesecloth. It may also be used to wrap meats while they cure.

Whatever the use, cheesecloth will not usually transfer flavor, since cotton is neutral. It will also not fall apart when wet and stretched, although over time, the edges may begin to fray. Cooks who wish to reuse cheesecloth can wash it in very hot water and soap, and hang it to dry.

It may not always be reusable, especially if it has been simmered in a fatty soup in the form of a sachet, or used to make a very pungent cheese. Around the house, the fabric is also great for drying glass and covering fruits and vegetables to prevent insect infestations. Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a DelightedCooking researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Mary McMahon. They are made from woven cotton gauze fabrics, which give them their airy and lightweight characteristics. They are available in seven grades, from open cheesecloths to extra-fine weave. The grades are determined by how many threads are used in every inch constructed in every direction. The grades are represented in units of 10, each unit representing a sturdier, more durable cloth.

Cheesecloths with lesser grades are more open weave, which allows more materials and liquid to pass through but are not as durable. However, cheesecloths with more grades, for example, 90, would be weaved tightly together, limiting the amount of materials that pass through, and are more durable. Basting poultry You can use a cheesecloth to keep turkey or chicken breast moist by dipping the cheesecloth in a mixture of olive oil, white wine, and butter. That way, the meat will remain moist and soft for a long time.

Dusting Adding dusted cocoa or sugar on top of your cookies or cake will not only make it sweet but also make the presentation beautiful. To use the cheesecloth for dusting, place it on top of the sugar or cocoa jar, pull it as tight as you can and secure it with a band or the jar ring and sprinkle the powder on your desert. Straining When straining, we mostly depend on the regular colanders, but sometimes, like when making broth or stock, you want to ensure that all the vegetables and meat are strained off the liquid.

That is where you need the cheesecloth. Before using it for straining, ensure to rinse your cheesecloth to get rid of any lint.