Red Leicester Cheese

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Red Leicester is an English cheese, made in a similar manner to Cheddar cheese, although it is crumblier.

Since the 18th century, it has been coloured orange by adding annatto extract during manufacture. It is a cow's milk cheese, originally from Leicestershire, England, and is named after the city of Leicester.

It has a firm texture and a slightly nutty taste. Versions sold in supermarkets are typically coloured with annatto, although it is possible to obtain Red Leicester without it.

Although Red Leicester can be young or "old", aged anywhere from four to nine months, the young Leicesters at the start of that range will be very mild: they often require at least six months to develop a tang.

Farmhouse versions are also available. Farmhouse makers will mature it in cloth, the old way, to allow better flavour development.