Randy Chandler
Goat cheese, or chevre in French, is a traditional cheese made from goat's milk. It is a popular ingredient in many recipes, including salads, bruschetta, and pizza. However, some people may not enjoy the flavour or texture of goat cheese, or they may have difficulty finding it in stores. For those who are vegan or have dairy allergies, a substitute for goat cheese is also necessary. Fortunately, there are several alternatives that can be used in its place, depending on the recipe and desired flavour profile.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Substitutes | Feta, Boursin, Cream Cheese, Mascarpone, Labneh, Shaved Parmesan, Cotija, Cambazola, Blue Cheese, Ricotta Salata, Pecorino, Olives, Nuts, Avocado, Hummus, Lemon/Lime |
| Reasons for substitution | Dairy allergies, veganism, taste preferences, availability, affordability |
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What You'll Learn
Feta cheese
Goat cheese, on the other hand, usually contains only goat's milk. It ranges from soft and fresh to hard and aged, with the most common variety being semi-soft and somewhat spreadable but also crumbly. Harder goat milk cheeses are similar to Parmesan cheese and can be grated or shaved. Goat cheese has an earthy, gamy taste, which comes from the natural grass diet of the goats.
When substituting goat cheese with feta cheese, it is important to consider the differences in flavour and texture. Feta is saltier and tangier than goat cheese, so you may need to use slightly less in your recipe. In terms of texture, feta is crumbly but remains soft, similar to fresh goat cheese. However, feta can have a slimy exterior due to its brine, while goat cheese is much smoother and spreadable at room temperature.
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Cream cheese
Goat cheese can be used as a substitute for cream cheese, but it has a stronger, more distinctive flavour and a crumblier texture. Goat cheese is an especially good substitute in dips and fillings, but its flavour means it's not always a good swap for sweet recipes. If you're using goat cheese as a substitute for cream cheese, you may want to add a little cream to achieve a similar texture to cream cheese.
Goat cheese has a tangier, more assertive flavour than cream cheese, so it can be a good substitute if you want to lean into the tanginess of cream cheese. However, because of its stronger flavour, it may not always be suitable as a one-to-one substitute, especially in sweet recipes. If using goat cheese in a sweet recipe, it's recommended to choose a milder variety and add a little cream to achieve a similar texture to cream cheese.
Some other common substitutes for cream cheese include mascarpone, ricotta, cottage cheese, sour cream, and Greek yogurt. Mascarpone is very close in texture and taste to cream cheese, making it one of the best all-around substitutes. It is commonly used in Italian desserts like tiramisu but also works well as a spread on toasted bread or in a sweet frosting. Ricotta is another Italian cheese that can be used as a substitute for cream cheese, but it has curds, so it needs to be blended or processed before baking with it. Cottage cheese can also be used as a substitute for cream cheese, but it has large, pronounced curds, so it should be blended before cooking or baking. Sour cream has a slightly more sour tang than cream cheese, but it adds a comparable richness. Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier than regular yogurt, so it can be a good substitute for cream cheese in creamy or baked recipes.
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Labneh
Some ways to enjoy labneh include drizzling it with olive oil and sprinkling it with garnishes like za'atar, everything bagel seasoning, fresh herbs, or lemon zest. It can be served with fresh vegetables and warm pita bread, making it a fantastic addition to a crudité platter. You can also dot it onto a salad, dollop it onto homemade pizza, or spread it on sandwiches.
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Boursin
Goat cheese can be used as a substitute for Boursin. Goat cheese has a tangy and creamy flavor and a similar texture to Boursin. To replicate the flavor of Boursin, you can mix goat cheese with garlic and herbs. This substitute works well in dips, spreads, and sauces, as well as in recipes that call for Boursin, such as stuffed chicken or fish.
When using goat cheese as a substitute for Boursin, it is important to consider the flavor and texture differences between the two cheeses. Goat cheese has a milder flavor than Boursin, so you may need to add more garlic and herbs to enhance the flavor. Additionally, goat cheese can have a range of textures, from creamy and soft to hard and crumbly, depending on its maturation and preparation.
To make a Boursin-style goat cheese at home, you can combine softened goat cheese with olive oil or butter, Creole seasoning, herbs de Provence, and garlic salt. This mixture can be served as a gourmet spread for crackers or crudites, used as a filling for pastries or mushrooms, or simply presented on its own in a jar as part of a cheese course.
Other substitutes for Boursin include store-bought herb and garlic cheese spreads, such as Alouette or Rondele, as well as other soft and creamy cheeses like mascarpone or cream cheese.
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Shaved parmesan
Goat's cheese, or chèvre, is a popular cheese made from goat's milk. It has a distinct, tangy flavour and a creamy, spreadable texture. While it may not be a perfect substitute for shaved Parmesan in all dishes, it can work well in certain contexts. Goat's cheese has a softer, creamier texture than Parmesan, so it may not be suitable for dishes that require a hard, shaved cheese. However, if you're looking for a substitute in terms of flavour, goat's cheese can work well.
When choosing between Parmesan and goat's cheese, consider the specific dish you're preparing and the role the cheese will play in it. If you're looking for a hard, shaved cheese to sprinkle over pasta or salads, Parmesan is a better option. On the other hand, if you're looking for a soft, creamy cheese to spread on crackers or bread, goat's cheese is a more suitable substitute. Additionally, consider the flavour profile of the dish. Goat's cheese has a tangy, earthy flavour, so it works well in dishes that can benefit from that unique flavour profile.
It's important to note that while goat's cheese can be a substitute for shaved Parmesan in some cases, it may not be a perfect replacement in all situations. The texture and flavour differences between the two cheeses can significantly impact the final dish. If you're using goat's cheese as a substitute, you may need to adjust the recipe accordingly to account for these differences.
In conclusion, while goat's cheese can be a substitute for shaved Parmesan in certain contexts, it's important to consider the specific dish and the role the cheese will play in it. Both cheeses have their unique characteristics, and choosing the right substitute will depend on the flavour and texture requirements of the dish.
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