What cheeses to put on a cheese board?
Picture this: a cozy gathering of friends and family, soft candlelight, and a beautifully adorned cheese board as the centerpiece of your gathering. A well-crafted cheese board is more than just a culinary delight; it's a work of art that brings people together to savor delicious flavors, share stories, and create cherished memories. If you're wondering which cheeses to include on your cheese board, we've got you covered. Here are seven cheeses that will elevate your cheese board and make it an unforgettable experience.
1. Brie de Meaux: The Creamy Classic
No cheese board is complete without a wheel of creamy, dreamy Brie. This soft and velvety cheese, often encased in a delicate edible rind, boasts a mild and buttery flavor that's beloved by many. Its luxurious texture pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments, from fresh fruits to crackers and honey. Brie adds a touch of elegance to any cheese board.
2. Sainte Maure de Touraine: The Bright and Tangy Delight
For a burst of bright and tangy flavors, include this goat cheese on your board. Sainte Maure de Touraine brings a delightful contrast to the other cheeses, with its zesty notes that dance on your taste buds. It pairs beautifully with fruits like figs, apricots, and berries.
3. Gouda: The Smooth and Buttery Dutch Gem
Gouda cheese, hailing from the Netherlands, is a cheese board must-have. Its smooth and buttery texture, along with its mild and slightly sweet taste, appeals to a wide range of palates. Young Gouda is perfect for those who prefer a milder cheese, while aged Gouda develops a nutty and caramelized flavor profile that's simply divine. Serve it with apple slices or grapes for a delightful combination.
4. Cheddar: The Classic Crowd-Pleaser
A cheese board staple, Cheddar cheese, is a classic crowd-pleaser. Whether you opt for sharp or mild Cheddar, this cheese offers a familiar and comforting flavor profile that's loved by many. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for pairing with pickles, mustard, or thinly sliced cured meats.
5. Manchego: The Spanish Sensation
Add a touch of Spanish flair to your cheese board with Manchego. This cheese, made from sheep's milk, has a firm texture and a nutty, slightly salty flavor. Its distinct crisscross pattern on the rind adds visual intrigue. Manchego pairs wonderfully with quince paste, Marcona almonds, and fresh grapes.
6. Camembert: The Velvety French Wonder
Much like Brie, Camembert is a soft, creamy cheese that hails from France. It offers a rich and earthy flavor with a hint of mushroom notes. The velvety texture and bold taste make it a fantastic choice for those seeking a robust cheese experience. Serve Camembert with crusty bread or pear slices for a delightful combination.
7. Roquefort: The Bold and Blue Beauty
For lovers of bold and intense flavors, Roquefort is an exceptional addition. This blue cheese from France is known for its crumbly texture and sharp, salty tang. Its characteristic blue veins lend a striking visual appeal to your cheese board. Pair Roquefort with honey, walnuts, or a crusty baguette to balance its boldness.
Assemble these seven cheeses on your cheese board, accompanied by an assortment of crackers, bread, fruits, nuts, and condiments like honey and mustard. Arrange them thoughtfully, allowing your guests to explore and savor the diverse flavors and textures. With this selection of cheeses, you're poised to create a cheese board that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also fosters a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for gatherings with loved ones. So, go ahead and craft your cheese masterpiece, and let the cheese-loving adventures begin!