Andy Montoya
Caramelised goat's cheese is a versatile dish that can be used in salads, appetizers, and main courses. The process of caramelisation involves heating sugar to create a sweet, golden brown crust. In the case of goat's cheese, the natural sugars in the cheese caramelise, creating a delectable crust with a slightly bitter and smoky undertone. This brings out the natural sweetness of the cheese and adds a delightful crunch. There are several methods for caramelising goat's cheese, including using a skillet, an oven, or a blowtorch.
How to Caramelize Goat Cheese
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Goat Cheese Type | Firm, fresh goat cheese with a mild, tangy flavor |
| Sugar Type | Granulated, demerara, coconut palm, honey, maple syrup, balsamic reduction |
| Pan Type | Non-stick skillet, cast iron skillet, stainless steel pan |
| Oil Type | Olive oil |
| Temperature | Medium heat |
| Cooking Time | 1-2 minutes per side |
| Serving Suggestions | Salads, appetizers, main courses, desserts |
| Accompaniments | Herbs, nuts, honey, chocolate sauce, berries, balsamic glaze, crostini, crackers |
| Variations | Herbed goat cheese, spicy goat cheese, fig and goat cheese, pizza topping, stuffed mushrooms |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right goat cheese
Firstly, it is important to note that there are two main types of goat cheese: fresh and aged. Fresh goat cheese is typically soft, moist, and young, with a white colour. It can range from creamy to crumbly in texture, depending on its moisture level. Fresh goat cheese is often packaged in a log shape and does not develop a rind. On the other hand, aged goat cheese is ripened over a longer period, resulting in a firmer texture. Aged variants may have natural or waxed rinds, or a fluffy white coating similar to Camembert or Brie. The longer ripening time of aged goat cheese gives it a stronger flavour and more intense taste, sometimes with hints of umami and butter.
When selecting a goat cheese for caramelising, it is generally recommended to choose a semi-firm to firm cheese. This is because these types of cheese hold their shape better when heated and develop a delicious caramelised crust. Examples of suitable cheeses include Bucheron and Garrotxa. However, if you are using a kitchen blowtorch to caramelise the cheese, as in the case of the Caramelized Goat Cheese and Strawberry Spinach Salad, you may not need to worry as much about the cheese holding its shape. In this case, you could opt for a softer, creamier cheese such as Laura Chenel's Honey Goat Cheese.
Another factor to consider when choosing a goat cheese is the milk used in its production. Cheeses are generally divided into two groups: those made with raw milk and those made with pasteurised milk. Raw milk cheeses have not been heat-treated, preserving the bacterial flora, but they are not recommended for pregnant women or children under 5. Pasteurised milk cheeses, on the other hand, have been heated to destroy pathogenic germs while preserving taste qualities. The Soignon range, for instance, does not include any raw milk cheeses.
Lastly, when choosing a goat cheese, you may want to consider its origin and freshness. Whenever possible, it is recommended to shop for local brands to support local farmers and reduce the travel distance for the cheese. It is also important to confirm that the cheese producer uses all-natural, fresh milk, as this is key to great-tasting cheese. Fresh goat cheese should be white and avoided if it has developed off colours like yellow or pink, or a mushy texture. Aged or resealed goat cheeses should be stored in a more humid environment, like a vegetable crisper drawer, rather than the coldest part of the fridge.
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Caramelizing the sugar
Caramelizing sugar is a delicate process that requires careful attention to prevent burning. The key to successful caramelization is to heat the sugar evenly and control the temperature to achieve the desired colour and flavour. Here is a step-by-step guide to caramelizing sugar for goat cheese:
Choosing the Right Sugar
Select the type of sugar you want to use. While granulated sugar is a common choice, you can also opt for organic demerara, coconut palm sugar, or even honey and maple syrup for a unique twist. The choice of sweetener will impact the flavour and colour of the caramelized sugar.
Preparing the Skillet
Use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet to prevent the sugar and goat cheese from sticking. Place the skillet on the stove and turn the heat to medium. You want to ensure even heating without overheating the sugar.
Melting the Sugar
Sprinkle the sugar of your choice in a thin layer over the skillet. As the sugar heats up, it will start to melt. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently move the melting sugar around the skillet to ensure even cooking. Be careful not to stir too vigorously, as you want to maintain a consistent layer for even caramelization.
Achieving the Right Colour
The goal is to caramelize the sugar to a deep golden brown colour. Keep a close eye on the sugar as it cooks, as it can burn easily. Swirl the skillet occasionally to promote even cooking and prevent hot spots. Once the sugar reaches the desired colour, remove the skillet from the heat. The residual heat will continue to cook the sugar, so be mindful of this to avoid burning.
Adding the Goat Cheese
Once the sugar has caramelized, carefully place the slices of goat cheese into the skillet. Allow the cheese to cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until a golden crust forms. The sugar will continue to caramelize and create a delicious, crispy coating on the cheese. If you prefer a deeper caramelization, leave the cheese in the skillet for a little longer, but be mindful of the risk of burning.
Serving
Remove the caramelized goat cheese from the skillet and let it cool down slightly before serving. The cheese can be enjoyed on its own or paired with herbs, nuts, or a drizzle of honey for an enhanced flavour experience.
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Adding goat cheese to the skillet
When you're ready to add the goat cheese to the skillet, start by slicing the cheese into rounds or wedges. If your cheese is very soft, place it in the freezer for a few minutes to make slicing easier. For even caramelization, it's important that the slices are of uniform thickness. If you're using a log of goat cheese, you can simply slice it into rounds.
If you're caramelizing sugar in the skillet first, make sure the sugar has reached a deep golden color before adding the goat cheese. Place the goat cheese slices carefully into the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until a golden crust forms. If you're using a cast iron skillet, you may need to cook the cheese a little longer to achieve the desired color and texture.
If you're using a kitchen torch or blowtorch to caramelize the goat cheese, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the cheese, holding the torch a couple of inches away and moving it continuously until the sugar melts and forms a golden brown candy coating. Work quickly to prevent the cheese from melting.
If you're searing the goat cheese in oil, heat a small amount of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Place the goat cheese in the hot oil and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. If you're glazing the goat cheese, brush the glaze over the cheese and continue cooking for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the glaze has caramelized.
Remember not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can affect the even caramelization of the goat cheese. Cook the cheese in batches if necessary. Also, be careful not to overcook the cheese, as it will become rubbery and lose its delicate flavor.
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Removing and serving
Once your goat's cheese has reached a beautiful golden brown crust, it's time to remove it from the heat and serve. Use a spatula to carefully lift the cheese from the pan and transfer it to a plate. It's important to act quickly here, as you don't want the cheese to overcook and become rubbery. Allow the cheese to rest for a few minutes before serving. This will give it a chance to cool down slightly and let the flavours develop.
Now, it's time to get creative with your accompaniments. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary will add an aromatic twist, while a drizzle of honey will enhance the natural sweetness of the caramelized cheese. To add some crunch, sprinkle over some nuts—walnuts or pecans are a great choice. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try something like sliced fresh figs or candied grapes.
If you're making a salad, arrange the cheese on top of a bed of lettuce, alongside your choice of nuts, seeds, and fruits. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction and olive oil for a touch of sweetness and acidity. For an elegant appetizer, serve the cheese on crostini or crackers, with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze.
For a heartier option, pair the cheese with pan-seared steak or chicken breast, or incorporate it into a pasta dish, risotto, or grilled vegetables. If you're feeling indulgent, create a fondue by melting the caramelized goat's cheese with cream and white wine, serving it with bread or vegetable dippers. And don't forget, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
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Getting creative with flavours
Now that you know the basics of caramelising goat's cheese, it's time to get creative in the kitchen! Caramelised goat's cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into a wide range of dishes, from salads to pizzas to main courses. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Herbed Goat Cheese
Add chopped fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the glaze for an aromatic twist. You can also sprinkle some herbs on top of the cheese after caramelising for a pop of colour and flavour.
Spicy Goat Cheese
Add a kick to your goat cheese by incorporating spices such as cayenne pepper into the glaze or marinade. For a subtle spice, try marinating the goat cheese in chilli oil before caramelising.
Sweet and Savory Combinations
Caramelised goat cheese pairs well with sweet and savory ingredients. Try topping it with fresh figs, grape tomatoes, or sliced apples for a unique flavour combination. You can also drizzle it with honey or a balsamic reduction for a touch of sweetness.
Nuts and Seeds
Add some crunch to your goat cheese by topping it with nuts or seeds such as walnuts, pecans, or candied nuts. You can also incorporate other textures by adding breadcrumbs or a layer of nuts over the goat cheese before caramelising.
Marinades and Glazes
Experiment with different marinades and glazes to add flavour to your goat cheese. Try marinating the cheese in herbs, spices, or wine before cooking. For a glaze, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper, or get creative with your own unique combination.
With these ideas in mind, you're ready to start experimenting and creating your own delicious flavour combinations!
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Frequently asked questions
Choose a firm, fresh goat cheese with a mild, tangy flavour. Avoid soft or spreadable goat cheeses as they tend to melt rather than caramelise.
You will need a heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle that can evenly distribute heat and prevent the cheese from sticking. A cast-iron skillet is a good option. You can also use a kitchen blow torch to caramelise the sugar on the cheese slices.
Aside from the goat cheese, you will need granulated sugar or another sweetener of your choice, such as honey or maple syrup. You can also add herbs, spices, or citrus zest for extra flavour.
First, slice the goat cheese into rounds or wedges. If the cheese is very soft, place it in the freezer for a few minutes to make it easier to slice. Then, heat your chosen sweetener in the skillet over medium heat until it melts and turns a deep golden colour. Place the goat cheese slices in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust. Remove from the heat and let the cheese cool before serving.
Caramelised goat cheese can be served as an appetizer on crostini or crackers, drizzled with honey or balsamic glaze. It also makes a great addition to salads, pasta dishes, risottos, grilled vegetables, or desserts like fresh berries with chocolate sauce. You can also experiment with different flavour combinations, such as adding herbs, spices, or breadcrumbs.
