Cheese And Pineapple: The Perfect Pairing Guide

While pineapple and cheese may seem like an unusual combination, the two complement each other perfectly. The sweetness of the pineapple balances the saltiness of the cheese, while the acidity of the fruit cuts through the richness of the cheese. When it comes to choosing the right cheese to pair with pineapple, there are a few factors to consider, such as texture and flavour. A soft and creamy cheese, like brie or camembert, pairs well with the juicy texture of pineapple, while a harder cheese, like cheddar, can be paired with pineapple chunks for a crunchy contrast. For those who prefer a milder, softer cheese, options like ricotta, cream cheese, and cottage cheese are ideal. Stronger, more pungent cheeses such as blue cheese, feta, and goat cheese also pair well with pineapple for a bold and flavourful combination.

Soft cheeses like brie and camembert

Camembert, with its soft and velvety texture, is another fantastic match for the sweet and tangy taste of pineapple. Its earthy and nutty flavour serves as the perfect counterpoint to the tropical fruit's natural sweetness. To elevate this pairing, try grilling pineapple slices and serving them with Camembert for a smoky, succulent treat. Alternatively, top the cheese with a tangy pineapple salsa for a refreshing twist.

In addition to brie and camembert, other soft cheeses that go well with pineapple include cream cheese, feta cheese, and goat cheese. Cream cheese, with its silky texture and tangy taste, is a perfect match for the sweetness of pineapple. Feta cheese, with its bold and salty flavour, adds a tangy kick to the dish, enhancing the sweetness of the fruit. Goat cheese, with its distinct tangy and creamy flavour, creates a flavour explosion when paired with pineapple.

Hard cheeses like cheddar and gouda

Gouda, with its bright complexion, is another cheese that pairs well with pineapple due to its sweet and tart flavours. The smooth, buttery, and nutty flavour of aged gouda complements the juicy, sweet, and fragrant nature of pineapple. For an even more intense flavour, try an aged gouda, which can better stand up to the acidity of the pineapple.

When it comes to creating a well-rounded flavour experience, hard cheeses like cheddar and gouda are a great choice to pair with pineapple. The sharpness and tanginess of cheddar or the nuttiness and butteriness of gouda provide a savoury contrast to the sweetness of the fruit, resulting in a delightful combination of flavours and textures.

In addition to cheddar and gouda, other hard cheeses that can be considered include Manchego, Parmesan, and Pecorino Romano. These cheeses offer nutty and buttery flavours that blend well with the sweetness of pineapple, creating a harmonious and flavourful pairing.

Blue cheese

The combination of blue cheese and pineapple is not just a matter of opinion, but also of science. According to the founders of the Belgian firm Foodpairing.com, both pineapple and blue cheese contain the flavour component methyl hexanoate. This shared chemical compound is the reason why these two seemingly opposite foods are a harmonious pair.

Gorgonzola, a bold and creamy Italian blue cheese, is a flavour powerhouse. Its pungent aroma and tangy taste can be awakened when paired with the sweetness of pineapple. The creamy texture of the Gorgonzola also complements the softness of the fruit, resulting in a mouthwatering and irresistible combination.

Roquefort, a type of French blue cheese, is another excellent pairing with pineapple. Roquefort is aged in limestone caves, which gives it a distinctive crumbly texture and a tangy, pungent flavour. The sweetness of the pineapple balances out the sharpness of the Roquefort, creating a perfect harmony of flavours.

For a well-balanced pairing, try Stilton, the milder cousin of the blue cheese family that hails from England. Its creamy texture harmonizes with the sweetness of pineapple without overpowering its delicate flavour.

Monterey Jack

Pineapple and Monterey Jack is a classic pairing, with the mild and buttery cheese providing a good match for the tropical flavour of the pineapple. This semi-soft cheese, first crafted in California, has a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavour, making it ideal for melting. When paired with pineapple, the gentle flavour of the cheese won't overpower the sweetness of the fruit, but it will add a creamy texture to the combination.

Pineapple is a tricky fruit to pair with cheese due to its intense sweetness and acidity. However, Monterey Jack's mild flavour and creamy texture complement the pineapple without overwhelming it. The cheese's smooth, buttery taste and slightly sweet notes make it an excellent choice to balance the tropical flavours of the pineapple.

When creating pairings, it is important to consider the texture and flavour of the cheese. Monterey Jack's soft, semi-soft texture and mild flavour make it a good match for the juicy, sweet pineapple. Its smooth, creamy mouthfeel and gentle taste will enhance the pineapple's natural sweetness without being too overpowering.

For a delicious snack or appetizer, try serving slices of juicy pineapple alongside Monterey Jack on a cheese board, or get creative and bake them together for a warm, indulgent treat. This combination is also perfect for grilled dishes, adding a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness to the tropical flavours of the pineapple.

Feta

The key to a successful pairing of cheese with fruit, such as pineapple, is balance. Feta's bold and salty flavour can stand up to the sweetness of the pineapple, creating a harmonious combination. The crumbly texture of feta also adds a pleasing crunch when paired with the juicy pineapple.

For a refreshing and unique appetizer, consider serving a pineapple salad with crumbled feta. The combination of sweet and salty flavours will surprise your taste buds and leave you wanting more. You can also try grilling pineapple slices and serving them with feta for a smoky twist.

When creating a cheese and pineapple pairing, it is important to consider the texture and flavour of the cheese. Feta's crumbly texture and tangy taste complement the sweetness and juiciness of pineapple, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy bold and unexpected flavour combinations. So, if you're looking for a tasty adventure, give feta and pineapple a try!

Frequently asked questions