S4 Ep 33: The History Of String Cheese With Guest Shosh Brodman

When someone mentions their favorite snack, string cheese might not be the first thing that pops into your mind, but this often-overlooked delight holds a surprisingly rich backstory. Just like many simple joys in life, there’s more to string cheese than meets the eye, or taste buds. Dive into its history and role in today’s culinary world with me, and my guest, standup comedian Shosh Brodman.

From Childhood Staple to Lifestyle Choice

As someone who grew up with a peculiar array of food favorites, including bologna on rye, Shosh Brodman introduces us to her longtime love affair with string cheese. For Shosh, string cheese was not just a snack; it was a companion through tedious flights and chaotic mornings. Dubbed "morning cheese" by her partner, string cheese maintains a comforting presence in her daily routine. It’s not just about nostalgia—this snack checks all her boxes of convenience and taste.

The History of a Dairy Hero

While string cheese might seem intrinsically American, its roots trace back to Italy, where mozzarella emerged in the 12th century. Mozzarella di Bufala, crafted from water buffalo milk, was enjoyed for its soft texture and fresh flavor. The cheese's stretchiness is attributed to the curd-stretching Pasta Filata technique, which endows mozzarella with its stringy characteristic.

The modern concept of individually packaged string cheese sticks was born from American ingenuity. In the 1970s, Wisconsin cheesemaker Frank Baker took mozzarella's potential and transformed it into a peelable, snackable phenomenon, perfect for lunchboxes and picnics.

A Cultural Staple and Snack Industry Boom

By the late 1980s, string cheese solidified its status in American lunchboxes, adapting gracefully to both the low-carb diet craze and the increasing demand for convenience. The industry has since flourished, with private labels capturing a significant market share.

String cheese is not just an American delight. Variants such as Armenian string cheese and Mexico’s queso Oaxaca highlight the snack's global cultural adaptations, showcasing how a simple technique has transcended borders to become a universal pleasure.

Pop Culture and Personal Experiments

String cheese has found its stride in various cultural contexts. From meme-worthy debates on the 'proper' way to eat it—to peel or bite—to its presence in movies and even a band name, this snack continues to weave itself into our lives. While the debate on nibbling versus peeling persists, Shosh proudly admits to enjoying both methods, appreciating the nuance each brings to the experience.

For those looking to jazz up their string cheese adventures, Shosh recommends a zestful pairing with Frank's RedHot sauce, creating a low-fry wing moment from the comfort of your home.

A Snack Worthy of Praise

String cheese, with its deep historical roots and versatility, bridges the gap between simple and sophisticated, creating a snack that is both a nostalgic delicacy and a modern-day star. Whether you’re a purist like Shosh or willing to experiment with pairings, it’s a snack with staying power.

So next time you peel—or bite—into a stick of string cheese, remember the layers of history and culture that make it more than just a snack, but a beloved ritual. Until next time, keep peeling with joy!

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