Muenster Cheese

Muenster, or munster, is a semi-soft cheese from the United States. It is thought to be an imitation of the Alsatian washed-rind Munster cheese, introduced by German immigrants. The American 'muenster' name distinguishes these cheeses.
Muenster cheese is lower in fat per serving than many other popular store-bought cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella and Monterey Jack. Muenster is pale in color and smooth in texture with an orange rind. The cheese is made from cow's milk. The rind's orange color is from annatto, a sweet and nutty seasoning used to add flavor and color to cheeses such as Cheddar, Colby, Red Leicester, and Mimolette. Muenster usually has a very mild flavor and smooth, soft texture. In some cases, when properly aged, it can develop a strong flavor with a pungent aroma. This cheese is commonly served as an appetizer. Because it melts well, it is also often used in dishes such as grilled cheese sandwiches, tuna melts, quesadillas, cheeseburgers, macaroni and cheese, and pizza.  Muenster cheese is often served with beer as the flavors complement each other well.