Cheese Guide 101
Cheese is a beloved food around the world, and there are countless varieties to choose from. However, some of the most common and popular cheeses are Brie, Goat Cheese, and Manchego. In this post, we'll explore these cheeses and provide some ideas on how to enjoy them.
Brie
Brie is a soft-ripened cheese that originated in France. It has a creamy texture and a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of foods.
Brie is now produced all over the world. The process of making Brie cheese involves several steps, including:
Coagulation: The milk is heated and a coagulating agent, usually rennet, is added to it. This causes the milk to thicken and form curds.
Cutting and Draining: The curd is then cut into small pieces to help separate the whey from the curd. The curd is then drained in a cheesecloth or a mold.
Molding: The curd is then placed into a mold, which gives it its characteristic shape.
Salting: Salt is added to the surface of the cheese, which helps to create a rind and also enhances the flavor.
Ripening: The cheese is left to ripen in a cool and humid environment, typically for several weeks. During this time, bacteria and fungi are introduced to the cheese, which help to break down the proteins and create the soft and creamy texture.
As the cheese ripens, it undergoes several changes in flavor and texture. The outer layer of the cheese develops a white, bloomy rind, which is edible and adds a distinct flavor to the cheese. The inside of the cheese becomes softer and creamier, with a mild and buttery flavor.
To enjoy Brie, consider pairing it with some crackers or a baguette. You can also try baking it in the oven with some honey or jam for a warm and gooey treat. Another option is to add Brie to a sandwich or a salad for a creamy and delicious addition. At The Grazing Table, you can enjoy brie on all three, sandwiches, salads, and baked!
Goat Cheese
Goat cheese, or chèvre, is a tangy and creamy cheese that is made from goat's milk. It has a distinctive flavor that pairs well with savory and sweet flavors. To enjoy goat cheese, try crumbling it over a salad or a pizza. You can also spread it on a cracker or a slice of bread for a tasty snack. Another option is to use it as a filling for stuffed peppers or mushrooms. You can also find this delicious cheese at The Grazing Table with our Whipped Goat Cheese. This dish is topped with hot honey, micro greens, and minced garlic, all served with French bread. It is a customer favorite!
Manchego
Manchego is a Spanish cheese that is made from sheep's milk. It has a nutty flavor and a firm texture that is perfect for slicing and grating.
The cheese is named after the town of La Mancha in central Spain, where it originated.
According to legend, the cheese was first made by Spanish shepherds who needed a way to preserve their milk during long periods of grazing. They would collect the milk from their sheep and use it to make cheese, which they could then take with them on their journeys.
Over time, the recipe for Manchego cheese evolved, and it became a popular food throughout Spain. In the 19th century, the cheese began to be produced on a larger scale, and it became a major industry in the La Mancha region.
Today, Manchego cheese is protected under the European Union's Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) system, which means that only cheese produced in the La Mancha region using specific methods and ingredients can be called Manchego cheese.
Manchego cheese is made from the milk of Manchega sheep, which are native to the La Mancha region. The milk is heated and a coagulating agent is added, which causes the milk to thicken and form curds. The curds are then drained, molded, and aged for several months to develop the cheese's distinctive flavor and texture.
To enjoy Manchego, try serving it as part of a cheese board with some crackers and fruit. You can also use it to make a delicious grilled cheese sandwich or add it to a salad for some extra flavor and texture.
In addition to these specific cheeses, there are some general tips for enjoying cheese. First, it's important to serve cheese at room temperature, as this allows the flavors to fully develop. Second, consider pairing cheese with some complementary foods, such as fruit, nuts, or cured meats. Finally, try experimenting with different combinations and flavors to find your favorite way to enjoy cheese.
So the next time you go to build board or are looking to try a new cheese, remember that Brie, Goat Cheese, and Manchego are three of the most common and popular cheeses, and there are many ways to enjoy them. Whether you're adding them to a salad, pairing them with crackers, or using them in a recipe, these cheeses are sure to add flavor and depth to your meals.