Blue cheese. The very name conjures images of pungent aromas, creamy textures, and a distinctive, sometimes polarizing, flavor. But beyond its bold character lies a world of culinary possibilities. Don’t let its reputation intimidate you. Blue cheese, when used thoughtfully, can elevate dishes from ordinary to extraordinary. This article will explore the vast and delicious landscape of pairings for blue cheese, offering inspiration and guidance for incorporating this remarkable ingredient into your meals.
The Allure of Blue Cheese: Understanding Its Character
Before diving into specific pairings, it’s important to appreciate what makes blue cheese unique. Blue cheeses are a diverse family, ranging from the mild and creamy Gorgonzola to the sharp and crumbly Stilton. What they all share is the presence of Penicillium molds, which are responsible for their characteristic blue or green veins and their distinctive, often tangy, flavor.
The specific type of Penicillium used, the milk source (cow, sheep, or goat), and the aging process all contribute to the cheese’s individual profile. Roquefort, for example, is made from sheep’s milk and aged in caves, resulting in a particularly intense and salty flavor. Danish Blue, on the other hand, is typically made from cow’s milk and has a milder, creamier taste.
Understanding these nuances is key to selecting the right blue cheese for your desired application. A delicate salad might benefit from the subtlety of Gorgonzola, while a hearty steak might call for the boldness of Stilton.
Pairing Blue Cheese with Fruits and Vegetables: A Symphony of Sweet and Savory
One of the most classic and satisfying ways to enjoy blue cheese is with fruits and vegetables. The combination of sweet and savory, creamy and crisp, creates a delightful interplay of flavors and textures.
Apples and Pears: A Timeless Combination
The crisp sweetness of apples and pears provides a perfect counterpoint to the tangy saltiness of blue cheese. A simple salad of sliced apples or pears, crumbled blue cheese, and a light vinaigrette is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Consider adding toasted walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
The type of apple or pear you choose can also influence the pairing. A tart Granny Smith apple works well with a richer blue cheese like Roquefort, while a sweeter Honeycrisp apple complements the creaminess of Gorgonzola.
Figs and Dates: Mediterranean Delights
Figs and dates, with their rich sweetness and chewy texture, are another excellent pairing for blue cheese. Wrap fresh figs with prosciutto and stuff them with blue cheese for an elegant appetizer. Alternatively, add chopped dates and crumbled blue cheese to a salad with mixed greens and a balsamic vinaigrette.
The sweetness of these fruits helps to balance the intensity of the cheese, while their unique flavors add complexity to the overall experience.
Grapes: Simple Elegance
Grapes offer a simple and refreshing way to enjoy blue cheese. A platter of red and green grapes alongside a wedge of blue cheese is a classic pairing that requires minimal effort. The juicy sweetness of the grapes cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a harmonious balance.
Experiment with different varieties of grapes to find your favorite combination.
Broccoli and Cauliflower: Unexpected Harmony
Don’t underestimate the power of pairing blue cheese with vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower. Roasted broccoli or cauliflower florets tossed with crumbled blue cheese and a drizzle of olive oil make a surprisingly delicious and satisfying side dish.
The earthy flavors of these vegetables are enhanced by the tangy saltiness of the cheese. You can also add toasted nuts or seeds for extra texture and flavor.
Blue Cheese and Meats: A Bold Culinary Adventure
Blue cheese and meat are a match made in culinary heaven. The rich, savory flavors of meat are perfectly complemented by the bold, tangy character of blue cheese.
Steak: The Classic Pairing
A perfectly grilled steak topped with crumbled blue cheese is a classic combination for a reason. The richness of the steak is balanced by the sharpness of the cheese, creating a truly decadent experience.
Consider using a high-quality blue cheese like Stilton or Roquefort for this pairing. A simple blue cheese sauce can also be made by melting blue cheese with cream and butter.
Burgers: Elevating the Ordinary
Add a touch of sophistication to your burgers by topping them with crumbled blue cheese. The cheese melts beautifully and adds a layer of complexity to the overall flavor.
Combine blue cheese with caramelized onions and bacon for an even more decadent burger experience.
Chicken: A Versatile Combination
Blue cheese can also be used to enhance the flavor of chicken dishes. Stuff chicken breasts with blue cheese and spinach for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Alternatively, create a blue cheese sauce to serve over grilled or roasted chicken. The sauce can be made by melting blue cheese with cream, butter, and a touch of white wine.
Pork: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Pairing blue cheese with pork can create an interesting sweet and savory combination. Consider adding blue cheese to a pork tenderloin stuffing with apples and cranberries, or using it as a topping for pork chops. The saltiness of the blue cheese cuts through the richness of the pork, creating a well-balanced flavour profile.
Blue Cheese in Other Dishes: Expanding Culinary Horizons
Beyond simple pairings, blue cheese can be incorporated into a variety of other dishes to add depth and complexity.
Salads: A Crumbled Delight
Adding crumbled blue cheese to salads is a great way to enhance their flavor and texture. Blue cheese pairs well with a variety of greens, including romaine lettuce, spinach, and arugula.
Combine blue cheese with other flavorful ingredients like toasted nuts, dried cranberries, and a tangy vinaigrette for a truly memorable salad.
Pizza: A Bold Topping
For a pizza with a kick, add crumbled blue cheese to your favorite toppings. Blue cheese pairs well with other strong flavors like prosciutto, mushrooms, and caramelized onions.
Consider using a combination of mozzarella and blue cheese to create a balanced flavor profile.
Pasta: A Creamy Indulgence
Blue cheese can be used to create rich and creamy pasta sauces. Simply melt blue cheese with cream and butter, and toss with your favorite pasta.
Add other flavorful ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken to create a complete and satisfying meal.
Dips and Spreads: A Party Favorite
Blue cheese dips and spreads are perfect for entertaining. Combine blue cheese with cream cheese, sour cream, and herbs to create a flavorful dip for vegetables, crackers, or chips.
Alternatively, create a blue cheese spread to serve on sandwiches or bagels.
Wine and Blue Cheese: The Perfect Marriage
The right wine can elevate the experience of eating blue cheese to new heights. The key is to find a wine that complements the cheese’s bold flavors without overpowering it.
Generally, sweeter wines pair well with blue cheese, as the sweetness helps to balance the cheese’s saltiness.
- Port: Port is a classic pairing for blue cheese, particularly Stilton. The wine’s rich sweetness and fruity notes complement the cheese’s bold flavors.
- Sauternes: Sauternes, a sweet French wine, is another excellent pairing for blue cheese. Its honeyed notes and balanced acidity provide a perfect counterpoint to the cheese’s saltiness.
- Riesling: A sweeter Riesling can also work well with blue cheese. Its fruity and floral aromas complement the cheese’s flavor profile.
For those who prefer drier wines, a bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz can also be a good choice, particularly with stronger blue cheeses like Roquefort.
Navigating the World of Blue Cheese: Choosing and Storing
With so many varieties of blue cheese available, it can be difficult to know where to start. When choosing blue cheese, consider the following factors:
- Milk Source: Blue cheeses made from different types of milk have different flavor profiles. Cow’s milk cheeses tend to be milder and creamier, while sheep’s milk cheeses are often sharper and saltier. Goat’s milk cheeses can have a tangy and slightly grassy flavor.
- Texture: Blue cheeses can range from creamy and spreadable to firm and crumbly. Consider the texture you prefer and how you plan to use the cheese.
- Flavor: Blue cheese flavors can range from mild and nutty to sharp and pungent. Start with a milder cheese if you’re new to blue cheese, and gradually work your way up to more intense varieties.
To store blue cheese properly, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or beeswax wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. Blue cheese can also be frozen, but its texture may change slightly.
In conclusion, the possibilities for enjoying blue cheese are virtually endless. From simple pairings with fruits and vegetables to more elaborate dishes like pizzas and pasta sauces, blue cheese can add a touch of sophistication and flavor to any meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your own favorite blue cheese pairings. With a little creativity, you can unlock the full potential of this remarkable ingredient.
What are some classic food pairings with blue cheese?
Classic pairings often involve contrasting flavors that complement blue cheese’s sharpness. Think sweet and savory combinations. For example, pears and walnuts offer a delightful balance, as do figs and honey. Red wine and port also make excellent companions, enhancing the richness and complexity of the cheese.
Another popular choice is pairing blue cheese with grilled meats, such as steak or burgers. Its bold flavor cuts through the richness of the meat, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Crumbled blue cheese on a crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a pleasant counterpoint to the greens, offering a burst of flavor in each bite.
Can blue cheese be used in sauces, and if so, what kind?
Blue cheese absolutely shines in sauces, adding a unique depth of flavor that elevates dishes. Creamy pasta sauces benefit greatly from the addition of blue cheese, creating a rich and decadent experience. These sauces pair well with hearty pasta shapes like penne or fettuccine, offering a comforting and flavorful meal.
Beyond pasta, blue cheese sauces also work wonders with chicken wings and steaks. The sharpness of the cheese balances the richness of the protein, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. A simple blue cheese dipping sauce can be made with sour cream or yogurt, making it a quick and easy accompaniment to vegetables or chips.
What vegetables pair well with blue cheese?
Roasting vegetables like Brussels sprouts and broccoli brings out their sweetness, which contrasts beautifully with the sharpness of blue cheese. The combination of textures and flavors creates a delightful and satisfying side dish. Additionally, drizzling a blue cheese vinaigrette over a salad of mixed greens and roasted vegetables adds a sophisticated touch.
Beyond roasting, consider using blue cheese to stuff mushrooms or artichoke hearts for a flavorful appetizer. The earthy notes of the vegetables complement the pungent taste of the cheese, creating a harmonious combination. Pairing blue cheese with root vegetables like sweet potatoes and beets also provides a unique and delicious experience.
Is blue cheese suitable for desserts?
While it might seem unconventional, blue cheese can indeed be used in desserts to create intriguing flavor combinations. A classic example is pairing blue cheese with honey and walnuts on a dessert pizza crust or incorporating it into a cheesecake filling. These sweet and savory creations offer a unique and sophisticated palate experience.
The key to using blue cheese in desserts is to balance its sharpness with sweetness and other complementary flavors. Adding fruits like figs or pears to a blue cheese crumble can create a delightful contrast. Experimenting with different textures and flavors can result in surprisingly delicious and memorable desserts.
Can blue cheese be used in sandwiches and wraps?
Blue cheese can add a significant boost of flavor to sandwiches and wraps, transforming ordinary meals into something special. Consider adding it to a grilled cheese sandwich with caramelized onions or using it as a spread on a turkey and avocado wrap. The sharp taste of the cheese complements the other ingredients, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
For vegetarian options, blue cheese pairs well with roasted vegetables like eggplant and bell peppers in a sandwich. Adding it to a panini with prosciutto and fig jam also provides a delicious sweet and savory combination. The possibilities are endless, allowing for creative and flavorful sandwich and wrap creations.
How does cooking affect the flavor of blue cheese?
Cooking can mellow the sharpness of blue cheese, making it less intense and more palatable for some. When heated, the cheese’s pungent flavor softens, allowing other subtle notes to emerge. This makes it a versatile ingredient for both cooked and uncooked applications.
However, overcooking blue cheese can result in a bitter or unpleasant taste. It’s best to add it towards the end of the cooking process or use it in dishes where it’s gently warmed rather than fully melted. This ensures that the cheese retains its flavor and texture without becoming overpowering.
What types of blue cheese are best for different culinary applications?
Different varieties of blue cheese offer distinct flavor profiles, making them suitable for various culinary applications. Gorgonzola, known for its creamy texture and mild flavor, is excellent in salads and creamy sauces. Roquefort, with its sharp and salty taste, pairs well with grilled meats and stronger flavors.
Stilton, a British blue cheese, boasts a rich and complex flavor that complements both sweet and savory dishes. Selecting the right type of blue cheese based on its characteristics is crucial for achieving the desired flavor outcome in your culinary creations. Experimenting with different varieties can unlock a world of delicious possibilities.