What To Know
- It’s perfect for serving on a cheeseboard with fruit and crackers, or for using in sandwiches and grilled cheese.
- It’s perfect for serving on a cheeseboard with fruit and crackers, or for using in salads and dressings.
Christmas is a time for indulgence, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious selection of cheeses? From creamy brie to sharp cheddar, there’s a cheese for every palate. But with so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the best cheese for Christmas. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from choosing the right cheese to pairing it with the perfect accompaniments. So whether you’re hosting a festive party or simply looking for a special treat, read on for all the cheesy inspiration you need.
How to Choose the Best Cheese for Christmas
The key to choosing the best cheese for Christmas is to consider your own tastes and preferences. Do you prefer soft and creamy cheeses, or sharp and tangy ones? Once you know what you like, you can start narrowing down your options.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing cheese for Christmas:
- Consider the occasion. Are you hosting a formal dinner party or a casual get-together? The type of cheese you choose should match the formality of the occasion.
- Think about your guests. If you’re hosting a party, it’s important to choose cheeses that will appeal to a variety of tastes.
- Consider your budget. Cheese can be expensive, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping.
The Best Cheese for Christmas
Now that you know what to look for, let’s take a look at some of the best cheese for Christmas.
Soft and Creamy Cheeses
- Brie: This classic French cheese is soft, creamy, and has a slightly nutty flavor. It’s perfect for serving on a cheeseboard with fruit and crackers.
- Camembert: Similar to brie, camembert is a soft, creamy cheese with a slightly stronger flavor. It’s also perfect for serving on a cheeseboard, but can also be used in baking.
- Chèvre: This goat’s milk cheese is soft, creamy, and has a slightly tangy flavor. It’s perfect for pairing with fruit, nuts, and honey.
Sharp and Tangy Cheeses
- Cheddar: This classic English cheese is sharp, tangy, and has a slightly crumbly texture. It’s perfect for serving on a cheeseboard with fruit and crackers, or for using in sandwiches and grilled cheese.
- Blue cheese: Blue cheese is a sharp, tangy cheese with a distinctive blue-green mold. It’s perfect for serving on a cheeseboard with fruit and crackers, or for using in salads and dressings.
- Gouda: This Dutch cheese is semi-hard, with a nutty flavor and a slightly sweet finish. It’s perfect for serving on a cheeseboard with fruit and crackers, or for using in sandwiches and grilled cheese.
Pairing Cheese with Accompaniments
Once you’ve chosen your cheese, it’s time to pair it with the perfect accompaniments. Here are a few suggestions:
- Fruit: Fruit is a classic pairing for cheese. Apples, pears, grapes, and berries all go well with a variety of cheeses.
- Nuts: Nuts are another great pairing for cheese. Almonds, walnuts, pecans, and pistachios all add a nice crunch and flavor to cheese.
- Honey: Honey is a sweet and sticky pairing for cheese. It’s perfect for drizzling over brie or camembert.
- Crackers: Crackers are a simple but effective pairing for cheese. They provide a neutral base for the cheese to shine.
How to Serve Cheese
Cheese can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions:
- On a cheeseboard: A cheeseboard is a great way to serve a variety of cheeses. Arrange the cheeses on a board with fruit, nuts, and crackers, and let your guests graze.
- As a fondue: Fondue is a melted cheese dish that is perfect for dipping bread, fruit, and vegetables.
- In a grilled cheese sandwich: A grilled cheese sandwich is a classic comfort food. Use your favorite cheese and bread to make a delicious and satisfying sandwich.
Storing Cheese
Cheese should be stored in the refrigerator. Wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Most cheeses will keep for 2-4 weeks in the refrigerator.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: What is the best cheese for a cheeseboard?
A: The best cheese for a cheeseboard is a variety of cheeses that will appeal to a variety of tastes. Consider including a soft and creamy cheese, a sharp and tangy cheese, and a blue cheese.
Q: What are some good accompaniments for cheese?
A: Some good accompaniments for cheese include fruit, nuts, honey, and crackers.
Q: How should I store cheese?
A: Cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
