How do you soften cheddar cheese that has gone hard?

1. The Microwave Method:

* Wrap the cheese in a damp paper towel. This will help to create steam and soften the cheese.

* Microwave on low power for 10-15 seconds at a time. Check the cheese frequently and continue microwaving in short bursts until it reaches your desired softness.

* Be careful not to over-microwave! This can cause the cheese to become rubbery.

2. The Grater Method:

* Grate the cheese. This will break down the cheese into smaller pieces, making it easier to melt and use in recipes.

* Add the grated cheese to your recipe and allow it to melt in the heat.

3. The Water Bath Method:

* Place the cheese in a bowl or container.

* Fill a larger bowl or pot with warm water.

* Submerge the cheese in the warm water for 5-10 minutes. This will help to soften the cheese without melting it.

* Remove the cheese from the water bath and pat it dry before using.

Tips:

* Use a cheese grater with larger holes for harder cheese.

* Don't use a cheese grater with small holes for hard cheese. This can cause the cheese to become crumbly.

* You can also soften hard cheese by adding it to a hot soup or pasta sauce. The heat will help to melt the cheese.

Important Note: If the cheese is hard and dry, it may be too far gone to be salvaged. In this case, it's best to discard the cheese.