How to Make Dried Pepper Jack Cheese

A form of Monterey Jack cheese, pepper jack is soft, creamy and flavored with a variation of chili peppers. Using pepper jack cheese in dishes enhances the flavor and adds a kick to the taste. Making dried pepper jack cheese gives you the ability to concentrate the flavor. An easy task, making dried pepper jack cheese only takes several hours and can be done in the kitchen.

Things You'll Need

• 2 lb. block pepper jack cheese
• Cheese slicer
• Food dehydrator
• Food processor
• Airtight container

Instructions

1. Slice the block of cheese into thin slices. Alternatively, you can grate the cheese into a bowl using a grater's large-gauge side.

2. Spread the grated or sliced cheese over the top rack of a food dehydrator.

3. Set the dehydrator on its highest setting. Close it, and let the cheese dehydrate for 2 hours.

4. Dump the dehydrated cheese bits into the food processor.

5. Grind the dehydrated pepper jack cheese into a course powder, about 1 minute.

6. Pour the dried cheese into an airtight container such as a jar, plastic storage bowl or zipper bag.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the cheese refrigerated. It lasts up to 3 months.

• Sprinkle the powdered cheese over pasta dishes or other recipes.

• Use in macaroni and cheese or other casserole dishes.