Cured meats and cheese are a match made in heaven. Both are savory, salty, and full of flavor, and they complement each other perfectly. But with so many different types of cheese and cured meats to choose from, it can be difficult to know which combinations work best.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of cheese and cured meats and discover which pairings are the most delicious. We’ll take a look at some classic combinations and introduce you to some lesser-known pairings that are sure to impress your taste buds. Whether you’re planning a charcuterie board for a party or just want to enjoy a delicious snack, this article will help you choose the perfect cheese to pair with your favorite cured meats.
An Introduction to Cheese and Cured Meats Pairing
When it comes to pairing cheese with cured meats, the possibilities are endless. Cheese and cured meats complement each other in a way that brings out the best in both. The combination not only adds depth and complexity to the flavors but also amplifies the different textures.
The perfect pairing depends on the type of cheese, the type of cured meat, and personal taste. However, there are some general pairing rules to follow. For example, soft and mild cheeses like brie or camembert go well with lighter cured meats like prosciutto or ham, while aged cheeses like cheddar or gouda pair well with more robust cured meats like salami or chorizo. With the right pairing, you can create a delicious and sophisticated appetizer or snack that your taste buds will thank you for.
Complementary Cheese and Cured Meats Pairing
When it comes to pairing cheese and cured meats, it’s important to choose flavors that complement each other. For example, tangy and sharp cheeses like asiago or Parmesan work well with rich and fatty meats like prosciutto or salami. The bold flavors of these cheeses cut through the richness of the meats and provide a nice contrast.
On the other hand, milder and creamier cheeses like brie or goat cheese pair well with lighter meats like ham or turkey. The soft and subtle flavors of these cheeses allow the delicate flavors of the meats to shine through without overpowering them. Additionally, certain cheeses like gouda or cheddar can be paired with a variety of cured meats as their versatility makes them an excellent choice for a cheese board. Ultimately, choosing the right cheese and cured meat pairing is all about finding the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Pairing Soft Cheese with Cured Meats
Pairing soft cheeses with cured meats is a classic combination that never fails to impress. Soft cheeses, as the name suggests, have a smooth and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the salty flavor of cured meats. When paired together, these ingredients create a contrast in texture and taste that is both rich and indulgent.
Brie, Camembert, and goat cheese are some of the popular soft cheeses that can be paired with cured meats. Brie and Camembert have a mild flavor and a creamy texture, which pairs well with prosciutto or coppa, while goat cheese has a tangy flavor that complements the saltiness of cured meats like salami or chorizo. These soft cheeses can be served on a cheeseboard or incorporated into sandwiches or salads for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Pairing Hard Cheese with Cured Meats
Pairing hard cheese with cured meats is a popular choice for charcuterie boards. The firm texture of hard cheeses complements the dry, salty, and fatty flavors of cured meats. Some examples of hard cheeses that pair well with cured meats are Parmigiano-Reggiano, Pecorino Romano, and Manchego.
Parmigiano-Reggiano is a classic choice for a hard cheese that pairs well with cured meats. Its sharp, nutty flavor complements the saltiness of cured meats like prosciutto and salami. Pecorino Romano is another great option, with its salty and tangy flavor that complements the richness of cured meats. Manchego, a Spanish hard cheese, has a nutty and buttery flavor that pairs well with chorizo and other spicy cured meats. When it comes to pairing hard cheese with cured meats, experiment with different combinations to find your favorites.
The Art of Pairing Blue Cheese with Cured Meats
Pairing blue cheese with cured meats is a true art and can elevate any charcuterie board or sandwich. The strong and pungent flavor of blue cheese pairs perfectly with the salty and savory flavors of cured meats like prosciutto and salami.
One classic combination is blue cheese and bacon. The salty and smoky flavor of bacon pairs perfectly with the bold flavor of blue cheese. Another combination to try is blue cheese with chorizo. The spiciness of chorizo pairs well with the pungent flavor of the cheese. When serving blue cheese and cured meats, it’s best to have a neutral cracker or bread on hand to balance out the strong flavors. And don’t forget to pair with a bold red wine or a crisp beer for the ultimate taste experience.
Pairing Semi-Soft Cheese with Cured Meats
Semi-soft cheeses add depth and balance to the intense flavors of cured meats. These cheeses are creamy and rich, making them the perfect complement to the salty and fatty tastes of cured meats. Pairing semi-soft cheese with cured meats is an art that requires a keen eye and a discriminating palate.
When selecting a semi-soft cheese for your cured meat platter, consider the texture and flavor profile. Mild semi-soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert pair well with milder cured meats like prosciutto and salami. For a more robust flavor, go with a semi-soft cheese with a stronger taste like Fontina, which goes well with spicy cured meats like chorizo and pepperoni. Regardless of the choice, pairing semi-soft cheese with cured meats creates a symphony of flavors that will satisfy even the most discerning taste buds.
Pairing Speciality Cheese with Cured Meats
Pairing speciality cheese with cured meats is an art in itself. You need to understand the flavours of both the cheese and the meat, and identify the perfect match. Specialty cheeses are often more flavourful and intense, which can complement cured meats beautifully.
For example, if you have a spicy cured meat like chorizo, pairing it with a mild cheese like manchego can balance the flavours and bring out the richness of both. Similarly, pairing a sharp and tangy blue cheese like Roquefort with a rich and fatty prosciutto can create a perfect balance of strong flavours. When it comes to speciality cheese, exploring different textures and flavours can create unique and delicious combinations with cured meats.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pairing cured meats with various cheeses is a delightful way to enhance the flavors of both food items. While there are no hard and fast rules for selecting cheese to complement cured meats, some general principles can guide your choices. Hard, aged cheeses tend to pair well with cured meats that pack a powerful flavor punch, while softer, creamier cheeses can offset the salty, robust taste of cured meats with their mild, smooth texture. Ultimately, the best pairings come down to personal preference and experimentation.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a picnic spread, adding the right cheese to your cured meats can elevate the experience to the next level. So why not try some new cheese and cured meat pairings and discover your very own perfect match? With so many types of cheese and cured meats to choose from, the possibilities are endless, and your taste buds will thank you.