Kamil Perry
Grating goat cheese can be a tricky task, as the soft and creamy cheese tends to stick together and doesn't disperse evenly. Freezing goat cheese is a useful technique to make it easier to grate. The cheese can be frozen in portions or as a whole log, wrapped in plastic and placed in a freezer bag. Freezing the cheese makes it firmer and easier to grate, and the heat from the dish will automatically defrost it. However, it is important to note that freezing may force out moisture and affect the desirable characteristics of the cheese. For dishes that require soft and creamy goat cheese, such as Strawberry Goat Cheese Bruschetta, freezing and grating may not be the best option. Instead, crumbling the cheese into small pieces with a knife and then adding it to the dish can be a better alternative.
How to grate goat cheese
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Goat cheese texture | Soft and creamy |
| Goat cheese handling | Hard to handle when soft |
| Goat cheese freezing | Can be frozen for up to 3 months |
| Goat cheese grating | Can be grated when frozen |
| Grater type | Box grater with a coarse setting |
| Grater preparation | Spray with cooking spray or rub with oil |
| Goat cheese crumbling | Cut into small pieces and scrape into the dish |
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What You'll Learn
Freezing goat cheese before grating
Goat cheese can be a tricky ingredient to work with due to its soft and sticky texture. Freezing goat cheese is a useful way to extend its shelf life and make it easier to grate. However, it's important to note that freezing can alter the texture and taste of the cheese, so it is best suited for cooked dishes.
When freezing goat cheese, it is important to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn and maintain quality. Use plastic wrap followed by an airtight bag or container. Label the packaging with the date, and aim to use the frozen cheese within 3 months.
To grate frozen goat cheese, remove it from the freezer and use a box grater for the best results. The cheese will firm up when frozen, making it easier to handle and resulting in less waste. Grate the cheese directly onto your dish, as the heat will automatically defrost it.
Not all recipes are suitable for grated frozen goat cheese. Dishes that require soft, creamy, and spreadable cheese, such as bruschetta, are not ideal. However, frozen grated goat cheese can work well in salads, roasted vegetables, or pasta dishes where the cheese can be added towards the end of cooking.
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Using a box grater
Grating goat cheese with a box grater can be a challenging task, as goat cheese is a soft cheese that tends to crumble easily. However, with the right technique and preparation, you can achieve the desired grated consistency. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a box grater effectively for goat cheese:
Step 1: Prepare the Goat Cheese
Before you start grating, it's important to firm up the goat cheese to make it easier to handle and grate. Place the goat cheese in the freezer for about 20 minutes or longer if you're not in a hurry. This extra step will make a significant difference in the grating process, helping the cheese hold its shape and reducing crumbling.
Step 2: Choose the Right Side of the Box Grater
A standard box grater typically has four sides, each designed for a different purpose. For grating goat cheese, you should use the side with smaller holes, which is intended for finely grating softer cheeses. This side usually has tiny punched-out holes or teeth-like structures. Avoid using the coarser side, as it's meant for harder cheeses and will not produce the desired results for soft goat cheese.
Step 3: Position the Box Grater Properly
Instead of holding the box grater vertically, turn it on its side so that it lies flat on your work surface. This positioning allows you to use your free hand to control the grater and the cheese, applying even pressure as you grate. It also helps contain the grated cheese inside the box grater, making it easier to transfer to a bowl without creating a mess.
Step 4: Grate the Goat Cheese
With the box grater in position, gently but firmly glide the goat cheese across the small holes in a downward motion. Take your time and apply light, even pressure to avoid breaking the cheese into large chunks. As you get closer to the end of the cheese, be extra cautious to prevent accidentally grating your fingers.
Step 5: Clean Up and Storage
After you're done grating, use a brush or paper towel to remove any remaining cheese from the grater. You can also lightly spray or brush the holes with oil before grating to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Store the box grater in a dry place, and consider investing in a stainless steel model if you're using an older aluminum one, as they can rust over time.
By following these steps, you'll be able to effectively grate goat cheese using a box grater, adding a delicious touch to your meals. Remember to work slowly and carefully, and always firm up soft cheeses like goat cheese before grating for the best results.
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Coating the grater with cooking spray or oil
When grating goat cheese, it's important to consider the texture of the cheese. Soft goat cheese, for example, can be sticky and challenging to grate, often resulting in large chunks rather than a fine grate. To avoid this, it is recommended to coat your grater with cooking spray or oil. This simple step can make a significant difference in the grating process, ensuring a smoother and more efficient grating experience.
To coat your grater with cooking spray or oil, start by holding the grater over the sink or a piece of paper towel to catch any excess spray or oil. Shake the cooking spray can evenly over the grating surface, ensuring that all areas are covered. Alternatively, if using oil, dip a paper towel into the oil and carefully rub it onto the grater, ensuring a light and even coating. It is important not to apply too much pressure or use too much oil, as this may result in a greasy grater and affect the taste of your cheese.
Once you have coated your grater, you can begin grating your goat cheese. The cooking spray or oil will help the cheese pass through the grater more smoothly, reducing the chances of it sticking and creating large chunks. This method is particularly useful when grating soft cheeses, as it helps to create a more uniform and finely grated product. Remember to reapply the cooking spray or oil as needed, especially if you notice the cheese starting to stick again.
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Grating into larger chunks
Grating goat cheese into larger chunks can be a great way to prepare the cheese for a variety of dishes. Goat cheese can be a tricky ingredient to handle, especially when it is soft and sticky. One effective method to grate goat cheese into larger chunks is to first place the cheese in the freezer. Freezing the cheese changes its texture, making it firmer and easier to grate. This technique works well for soft cheeses like goat cheese, which can be challenging to grate at room temperature due to their sticky and creamy consistency.
To freeze the goat cheese, divide it into portions if desired. Wrap the cheese portions in freezer-safe plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe zipper-top bag or add a layer of foil for extra protection from freezer burn. Label the package with the date, and use the frozen cheese within three months. When you are ready to grate the cheese, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw slightly to make it easier to handle.
The type of grater you use also plays a role in achieving larger chunks. It is recommended to use a box grater instead of a mandolin. A box grater exerts more localized pressure on the cheese for shorter periods, resulting in smaller breaks in the cheese that are closer in size to the final shredded product. The larger blade of a mandolin, on the other hand, can cause more significant breaks in the cheese due to increased stress on a larger surface area.
Additionally, you can spray the grater with cooking spray or lightly oil it with a paper towel to facilitate the grating process and prevent the cheese from sticking. This technique will help you achieve larger chunks of grated goat cheese that can be used in various recipes, such as salads, pasta dishes, or as a topping for focaccia. Freezing and then grating the goat cheese allows for an even distribution of the cheese throughout the dish, ensuring that every bite offers a tangy and flavorful experience.
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Recipes that use grated goat cheese
Grated goat cheese can be used in a variety of recipes, from savoury to sweet. Here are some mouth-watering ideas to get you started:
Creamy Goat Cheese Pasta
This delicious and easy-to-make dish combines goat cheese with basil, lemon zest, and parsley for a flavourful and creamy sauce that coats your favourite pasta. Simply cook the pasta al dente, reserve some pasta cooking water, and make the sauce by heating butter and garlic in a skillet. Add the goat cheese, cream, and pasta water to create a silky smooth sauce. Season to taste and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Goat Cheese Crostini
For a simple yet elegant appetiser, try making goat cheese crostini. Top toasted bread slices with creamy goat cheese, ripe plum halves, and a balsamic reduction. You can also experiment with other toppings, such as grilled nectarines and fresh basil, or try a pickled marmalade-like condiment called chhundo for a tangy and sweet flavour profile.
Warm Goat Cheese in Marinara Sauce
A household favourite with a twist! Warm goat cheese in a marinara sauce and serve it with a baguette for dipping. The addition of minced basil and cracked black pepper gives this dish a fresh and lively finish. It's a perfect comfort food for any gathering.
Goat Cheese Soufflé
For a classic French treat, try making a cheese soufflé. It's made by gently folding a simple béchamel sauce into airy whipped egg whites. The goat cheese adds a tangy and creamy dimension to this light and fluffy dish.
Goat Cheese Salad
Goat cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of salads. Try baking thyme-and-breadcrumb-coated goat cheese and serving it alongside a harmonious blend of lettuces and crunchy garlic croutons. Alternatively, crumble some goat cheese over a salad with grilled stone fruits, such as nectarines or plums, and fresh herbs for a summery treat.
Goat Cheese Cheesecake
Goat cheese takes this classic dessert to the next level. Whether you prefer a traditional cheesecake or a not-too-sweet version, the addition of goat cheese brings a savoury twist that will impress your guests. For an extra tangy kick, blend soft goat cheese with vanilla custard and a touch of lemon juice for a creamy pudding.
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Frequently asked questions
Freezing goat cheese before grating it can make the process easier and prevent the cheese from clumping together. If you are adding the cheese to a hot dish, you can grate it straight from frozen and it will automatically defrost.
It is recommended that you use goat cheese within three months of freezing it.
Grated goat cheese works well on salads, as it can be evenly distributed throughout the dish. It can also be used in dishes like roasted asparagus. However, it is not suitable for dishes where soft, creamy, and spreadable cheese is required, like strawberry goat cheese bruschetta.
A box grater is recommended over a mandolin grater for soft cheeses. The coarse side of the grater should be used for soft cheeses.
