kaasrääkida

Kaasrääkida is an Estonian term that translates literally to "cheese talk" or "talking cheese." It refers to a phenomenon where certain types of cheese, particularly aged or hard varieties, can emit faint crackling or popping sounds when handled or broken. This sound is a result of internal stresses within the cheese matrix.

The sounds are typically attributed to the formation of tiny protein crystals, such as tyrosine crystals, within the cheese as it ripens and ages. These crystals can be quite hard and, when they are stressed or fractured, they can produce audible clicks or crackles. The presence of these crystals is often an indicator of a well-aged and flavorful cheese, and for many connoisseurs, the "kaasrääkida" is a desirable characteristic that signals quality and maturity.

Different cheese-making processes and aging periods can influence the likelihood and intensity of kaasrääkida. Cheeses that undergo longer aging periods, with lower moisture content, are more prone to developing these crystalline structures. While not a universal trait of all cheeses, it is a recognized aspect of cheese appreciation, particularly for enthusiasts of traditional and artisanal cheese varieties. The sounds are harmless and do not affect the edibility or safety of the cheese.