Kamil Perry
The age-old question of whether to serve cheese before or after dessert has sparked much debate, with some arguing that the British custom of serving dessert before cheese is a relic of a bygone era, while others defend the tradition. Food writer Elizabeth David, who championed foreign cuisine and criticised local customs, is believed to have influenced the shift towards embracing the French custom of serving cheese before dessert. While some consider it a sign of sophistication, others argue that serving cheese after dessert is more social, allowing guests to relax and engage in lively conversations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese before dessert | This is the French way. Some British chefs tout this method. |
| Cheese after dessert | This is the traditional English way. |
| Cheese as dessert | Some people serve cheese instead of dessert. |
| Mild cheese | Some people prefer to eat this before dessert. |
| Strong cheese | Some people prefer to eat this after dessert. |
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What You'll Learn
Cheese before dessert is considered the French way
The French way of serving cheese before dessert has sparked debate among dinner party hosts and guests alike. While some consider it a break from British tradition, others embrace the French influence on this dining custom.
Cheese before dessert is indeed considered the French way. In France, it is customary to serve cheese as part of a lengthy and indulgent meal, savoured and appreciated alongside a glass of wine. This course typically follows the main course and precedes dessert. The French approach to cheese showcases an appreciation for the craft and variety of cheeses, treating it as a separate course to be relished.
This custom is not merely a matter of timing but also involves a specific etiquette. In France, it is customary to begin with mild, soft cheeses and progress to stronger varieties. The cheese is sliced and served immediately to preserve its texture and flavour. Accompanying the cheese with a sweet, strong port wine is also recommended, with just a few sips intended to complement the cheeses.
The French tradition of serving cheese before dessert has influenced chefs and dinner party hosts beyond France's borders. Some proponents of this approach, including British chefs, advocate for embracing European customs and moving away from what they perceive as outdated, stuffy Victorian habits. They argue that serving cheese before dessert fosters a more social atmosphere, encouraging conversation and a leisurely dining experience.
However, not everyone embraces this French influence. Some view it as a betrayal of British customs and traditions, especially the longstanding practice of concluding meals with cheese to facilitate relaxed conversations. Critics of the French way find it unusual and even disagreeable to savour cheese before dessert.
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Cheese after dessert is considered the British way
There are differing opinions on whether cheese should be served before or after dessert. While some sources suggest that the French way is to serve cheese before dessert, others argue that the British tradition is to serve cheese after dessert. This practice is considered more social and conducive to relaxed conversation after a meal.
In defence of the British way, one source argues that serving cheese after dessert allows guests to kick back and engage in meaningful conversations. It is believed that serving cheese in this order indicates that guests are "'in for the duration' and creates a more leisurely dining experience. This approach also ensures that the strong flavour of cheese does not linger in the mouth throughout the entire evening.
Traditionally, the British custom of serving cheese after dessert is paired with a glass of port or red wine. This combination is said to enhance the enjoyment of the cheese course and encourage social interaction among guests. Serving cheese after dessert allows for a more relaxed and indulgent dining experience.
However, some British chefs have challenged this tradition, advocating for the French approach of serving cheese before dessert. This shift in preference may be influenced by a post-war generation that embraced foreign food cultures and moved away from traditional British customs. Nonetheless, serving cheese after dessert remains a beloved aspect of British dining for many.
When serving cheese after dessert, it is essential to select a variety of cheeses, including soft and hard options. Brie or Camembert are popular choices for soft cheeses, while Gruyere is a favourite among hard cheeses. Presenting a cheese course with a sweet, strong port wine can perfectly complement the flavours.
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Serving cheese after dessert is a good idea because it's social
There are differing opinions on whether cheese should be served before or after dessert. While some people suggest that cheese should be served before dessert, others argue that serving cheese after dessert is more social and conducive to conversation.
Traditionally, in English culture, cheese has been served after dessert. This practice is often associated with social gatherings and dinner parties, where guests can relax and engage in conversation while enjoying cheese and a glass of port or red wine. Serving cheese after dessert allows guests to savour the cheese and appreciate its flavour without feeling rushed. It also provides an opportunity for guests to sample a variety of cheeses and create their own pairings with different wines or crackers.
In contrast, serving cheese before dessert can be seen as a break from tradition and may be considered unusual by some. While it can work with a very mild cheese, a strong cheese before dessert can leave a heavy taste in the mouth that may not complement the dessert. Serving cheese first may also be associated with formal dining etiquette, where the cheese course is presented as part of the main meal rather than as a separate social experience.
However, there are those who argue that serving cheese before dessert is more common in other cultures, such as the French, and can be a delightful part of the dining experience. Ultimately, the decision of when to serve cheese is a matter of personal preference and the style of the meal being served.
By serving cheese after dessert, hosts can create a relaxed and social atmosphere that encourages conversation and a sense of community. It allows guests to savour the cheese, appreciate its flavour, and create their own pairings. This approach transforms the cheese course into a highlight of the meal, a time when guests can connect and linger over delicious food and drinks, making it a memorable part of the dining experience.
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In France, the cheese course is served as part of a long meal
The French way of serving cheese before dessert has been a topic of debate. Traditionally, in England, cheese is served after dessert, often with a glass of port. However, some people, including British chef Mary Berry, suggest serving cheese before dessert. This suggestion has caused consternation among the English middle classes, with some calling it "wrong" and a "denial of Britishness".
In France, however, the cheese course is indeed served before dessert as part of a long meal. This custom has been adopted by some non-French chefs, who see the British custom of dessert followed by cheese as outdated. Serving cheese before dessert in France is considered an opportunity to savour various cheeses, often paired with wine, and engage in leisurely conversation.
When serving a cheese course, it is essential to remember a few key points. Firstly, the cheese should be sliced immediately before serving to prevent it from drying out. A selection of soft and hard cheeses should be offered, such as Brie or Camembert for soft cheeses and Gruyere for a hard cheese. A blue or herbed soft cheese can accompany these. Each guest or couple should have their own cheese plate and utensils.
The order in which cheeses are consumed also matters. It is customary to start with the mildest soft cheeses and progress to the strongest flavours. This ensures that the palate is not overwhelmed by strong flavours at the beginning of the cheese course. In addition, attention should be paid to the presentation. It is considered aesthetically pleasing to serve an uneven number of cheeses.
The French approach to the cheese course as an integral part of a long meal reflects a cultural appreciation for the craft and variety of cheeses. This course is not merely an afterthought but a chance to savour and appreciate the unique flavours and characteristics of different cheeses. As such, the French tradition of serving cheese before dessert is more than just a matter of culinary preference; it is a celebration of the art of cheesemaking.
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The cheese course is not served at the beginning of the meal
The cheese course is typically not served at the beginning of the meal. It is considered customary to serve cheese after the entree and before dessert. Serving cheese after the main course and before dessert is a British custom, which some believe is a relic of the past. However, it is a common practice and ensures that the cheese course does not leave a heavy taste in the mouth for the rest of the evening.
In France, it is common to serve cheese before dessert, which has sparked some debate. Some believe that serving cheese before dessert is a sign of being ""posh as fuck", while others find it "disgusting". Serving cheese before dessert may be influenced by French customs, which some British people have adopted, moving away from traditional British customs.
When serving cheese, it is important to remember to slice it immediately before serving to prevent it from drying out. It is recommended to offer a variety of cheeses, including at least one soft and one hard cheese. For soft cheeses, Brie or Camembert are popular choices, while for hard cheeses, Gruyere is a favourite. A blue or herbed soft cheese can also be included. Each guest or couple should have their own cheese plate and utensils.
The cheese course is often accompanied by a sweet port wine, with just a few sips per person being enough to complement the cheeses. This course is a time for relaxation and socialisation, where conversations can flow freely, and it is considered a more intimate part of the meal.
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Frequently asked questions
Traditionally, cheese is served after dessert. However, some people prefer to serve it before dessert, especially if the cheese is mild.
In France, cheese is typically served before dessert.
In Britain, the traditional way is to serve cheese after dessert, along with a glass of port.
It is recommended to serve at least one soft and one hard cheese. Brie or Camembert are popular choices for soft cheese, while Gruyere is a favorite for hard cheese. Blue or herbed soft cheese can be added as well. The cheese should be sliced immediately before serving to prevent it from drying out. Each guest should have their own cheese plate and utensils.
