Every year on June 4, cheese enthusiasts in the United States celebrate National Cheese Day. Started in 1914 in Monroe, Wisconsin, the occasion has grown to become the perfect opportunity for cheese lovers to indulge in all things “cheese.”

From its ancient origins to its presence in modern cuisine around the globe, cheese has a fascinating history. It also holds a prominent place in many hearts and kitchens, especially at Tommy’s Pizza and Subs where we serve it with pride in dishes both hot and cold.

Let’s take a closer look at the history of cheese, why it’s so beloved, some fun facts, and how we use it.

Can You Say Cheese?

Cheese-making is an ancient art that dates back some 10,000 years to around the time sheep and other milk-producing animals were first domesticated. The earliest evidence of cheese production as we’ve come to know it has been found in Poland, where archaeologists discovered strainers with milk-fat molecules dating back to around 5500 BCE. The practice likely began as a means of preserving milk. Early herdsmen stored milk in containers made from animal stomachs, which naturally contained rennet, an enzyme that causes milk to coagulate and separate into curds and whey.

Eventually, cheese-making spread throughout Europe and the Middle East. Ancient Greeks and Romans prized cheese for its versatility and storage capabilities. They developed many varieties and improved techniques for aging and flavoring it. By the Middle Ages, monasteries in Europe had become centers of cheese production, creating some of the most famous cheeses we know today, such as Roquefort, Parmesan, and Gouda.

Why Do We Love Cheese?

Cheese’s rich, creamy texture and variety of flavors—from mild and milky to sharp and pungent—make it a versatile ingredient or stand-alone treat. Here are a few reasons why cheese is valued and adored by so many:

Variety—Cheese comes in countless types, each with a unique taste and texture. This diversity means there’s a cheese to suit practically every palate and occasion.

Nutrition—Cheese has nutritional value and health benefits. It is a good source of essential nutrients, including calcium, protein, and vitamins A and B12. It also contains healthy fats, which contribute to its satisfying richness.

Versatility—Cheese can be used in many ways. It can be melted on pizza (one of our favorites), layered in sandwiches (another Tommy’s favorite), baked in casseroles, or enjoyed on its own as part of a cheese platter.

Cultural Significance—Cheese is deeply rooted in many cultures and cuisines around the world, making it not only a food item but also a part of our heritage and traditions.

Some Fun Facts About Cheese

Here are some interesting facts about cheese.

A Lot of Cheese—There are about 2,000 varieties of cheese worldwide.

Most Popular—Mozzarella, known for its stretchy, melty qualities, especially on pizza, is the world’s most popular cheese.

Giant Cheese Wheel—The world’s largest cheese wheel, produced in 1995 in Wisconsin, weighed over 34,000 pounds and required over 7,000 gallons of milk.

Cheese Vaults—In countries like Switzerland and France, there are vast underground vaults dedicated to aging and storing cheese, with specific conditions to ensure perfect maturation.

Volume—To make one pound of cheese takes about 10 pounds of milk, though the ratio varies depending on the type of milk.

Cheddar—Cheddar cheese is not naturally yellow. It’s naturally white or off-white. To get the orange color, flavorless Annatto seed is added.

By Any Other Name—American cheese is not actually a cheese but a food product made from cheese and other ingredients, so it can’t be labeled as “cheese” per the FDA.

Tommy’s Loves Cheese

Cheese is a cornerstone ingredient in many beloved dishes, especially at Tommy’s Pizza and Subs.

Pizza—From classic cheese to multi-topping pies, most of our pizzas feature a generous layer of mozzarella melted over a tangy tomato sauce and crispy crust.

Calzone—We stuff our calzones with tasty ingredients and lots and lots of ricotta cheese.

Sandwiches—Hot or cold, our sandwiches we load them with either provolone, Swiss, parmesan, or mozzarella.

Salads—From provolone to parmesan to feta, cheese is a main topping on many of our salads.

So whether you’re savoring a slice of pizza, enjoying a hot sub, or simply enjoying a Greek salad topped with Feta, Tommy’s Pizza and Subs invites you to take a moment to appreciate the rich history, diverse flavors, and the mouthwatering joy cheese brings to our lives.

Discounts

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