Cheese 101: A Beginner's Guide to Different Types of Cheese and How to Pair Them
If you're a cheese lover, you're not alone. Cheese is a versatile and tasty ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes or eaten on its own. But it can also be bewildering, with so many different types of cheese to choose from.
In this beginner's guide to cheese, we'll cover some of the most popular types of cheese, what they taste like, and how to pair them with other foods.
Common types of cheese
Cheddar
Cheddar is one of the most popular types of cheese. It's a hard cheese made from cow's milk that originated in the English village of Cheddar. Cheddar has a sharp, tangy taste that becomes more pronounced the longer it's aged. It pairs well with crackers, apples, and grapes.
Brie
Brie is a soft cheese made from cow's milk. It has a mild, buttery taste and a creamy texture that make it a popular choice for cheese plates. Brie goes well with crackers, baguette, and figs.
Gouda
Gouda is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk. It has a nutty, sweet taste and a smooth, creamy texture. Gouda pairs well with cured meats, such as prosciutto or salami, and fruits like pears or peaches.
Blue cheese
Blue cheese is a type of cheese that has had penicillium mold added to it, which gives it a distinctive blue veining. It has a pungent, sharp taste and pairs well with crusty bread, apple slices, and nuts.
Cheese pairings
Wine
Wine is a classic pairing with cheese. Red wines like cabernet sauvignon or merlot pair well with sharp cheddar or blue cheese. White wines like chardonnay or sauvignon blanc are a great match for brie or gouda.
Fruit
Fruit is another popular pairing with cheese. Apples, pears, grapes, and figs are all great choices. The sweetness of the fruit complements the saltiness of the cheese. You can also try serving cheese with a fruit chutney or jam.
Nuts
Nuts pair well with many types of cheese. Walnuts, pecans, and almonds are all great options. They add a bit of crunch and texture to the cheese plate.
Conclusion
Cheese is a delicious ingredient that can add a lot of flavor to your meals. With this beginner's guide to cheese, you're now equipped with the knowledge to select the right type of cheese for your dish and pair it with complementary foods to create a delicious cheese plate. Happy tasting!
