Cheese And Pepper Jelly: Perfect Pairing Recommendations

Pepper jelly is a versatile condiment that can add a unique dimension to a simple cheeseboard. The sweet and spicy jelly pairs well with a variety of cheeses, from creamy and mild to bold and flavourful. For those who want a kick, pepper jelly can be paired with stronger cheeses like blue cheese, while those who prefer a milder option may enjoy it with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese. The possibilities are endless, and with so many types of cheeses and flavours of pepper jelly to choose from, you can create a delightful balance of flavours and textures that will elevate any cheese board or appetizer spread.

Cream cheese and pepper jelly

Cream cheese is a great base for this appetizer as it is soft and creamy, and its mild flavour pairs well with the stronger taste of the pepper jelly. The cream cheese should be softened to room temperature before serving, making it easier to spread on crackers. If you are short on time, you can soften the cream cheese in the microwave for about 10 seconds.

As for the pepper jelly, you can use store-bought or make your own at home. It is typically made with spicy peppers, sugar, and salt in a pectin or vinegar base. You can use any type of pepper, from jalapeños to habaneros, to adjust the spice level to your preference. The jelly can be heated slightly in the microwave to make it easier to pour over the cream cheese.

When serving, arrange the softened cream cheese on a serving plate or platter and spoon the pepper jelly on top. You can garnish the dish with a few sprigs of rosemary or sliced green onions to make it more festive, especially during the holiday season. Don't forget to provide a spreader and an assortment of crackers on the side. Thicker crackers are generally better as they can withstand the weight of the spreadable cheese.

This easy-to-make appetizer is sure to be a hit with your guests and is a great way to add a kick of flavour to your next gathering.

Mozzarella and pepper jelly

To make a mozzarella and pepper jelly panini, you will need:

• 8 slices of bread
• 4 tablespoons of hot pepper jelly
• 4 oz of fresh mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon of olive oil
• 1 shallot, thinly sliced
• 1 bunch (8 oz) of fresh kale, ribs removed, torn into bite-size pieces (6 cups)

First, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shallot and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Then, add the kale and cook for about 3 minutes until wilted, adding salt and water as needed. Set the kale mixture aside.

Next, spread the pepper jelly evenly over one side of each slice of bread (about 1 1/2 teaspoons each). Divide the kale mixture evenly among 4 slices of bread, and top each with mozzarella cheese. Place the remaining bread slices on top, jelly-side down, and spray both sides of the sandwiches with cooking spray.

Place the sandwiches in a panini grill heated to medium-high and grill for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and grill marks appear. Serve immediately.

For a more indulgent option, you can add mayonnaise or salted butter to the outside of the bread before grilling. This will add extra richness to the sandwich.

Blue cheese and pepper jelly

Firstly, not all blue cheeses are the same. They can range in flavour from sweet and salty to black peppery to mouth-puckering. If you're looking for a milder, sweeter blue cheese to pair with the pepper jelly, go for one with fewer pockets of blue mould and a softer, creamier texture. This will ensure that the cheese doesn't overwhelm the delicate balance of sweet and spicy flavours in the pepper jelly.

Secondly, the type of pepper jelly you choose can also make a difference. While a mild pepper jelly can be a good starting point, don't be afraid to experiment with different varieties to find your favourite combination. For an extra kick of heat, try a jalapeño or habanero pepper jelly. The spiciness of the jelly will be a perfect contrast to the cool creaminess of the blue cheese.

When serving blue cheese and pepper jelly, there are endless possibilities. You can offer them as part of a charcuterie board, along with crackers, cured meats, and grilled vegetables. You could also try spreading the blue cheese on a cracker, topping it with pepper jelly, and finishing with a sprinkle of ground black pepper for an extra punch of flavour. For a more indulgent treat, bake some brie in a pie crust and top it with blue cheese and pepper jelly for a creamy, spicy, and sweet bite.

Finally, don't be afraid to experiment and trust your taste buds. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some fresh fruit to the mix, such as thin slices of green apple, to complement the sweet and spicy notes of the jelly and cheese. Remember, the beauty of food is in the exploration and discovery of new flavour combinations, so have fun and enjoy the process of finding your perfect blue cheese and pepper jelly pairing!

Aged cheddar and pepper jelly

Aged cheddars are cheddars that have been cured properly and have a slightly crumbly texture. As the cheese matures, it generally gets sharper in flavour, and little crunchy crystals start to appear. These crystals are calcium lactate, and they only start to appear after long periods of maturation.

When creating a cheese board, it is important to have a variety of ingredients and condiments for guests to experiment with. Different types of bread, crackers, meats, and veggies can complement the cheeses and jellies. Classic crackers tend to have a neutral flavour and a crisp texture, which pairs well with creamy cheeses and spicy jellies. However, more creative cracker options, such as flavoured crackers (rosemary, black pepper, or sesame) or gluten-free options, can add extra flavour and texture to your spread.

Goat cheese and pepper jelly

A Caribbean mango pepper jelly is a great pairing with goat cheese, as the sweet juiciness of the jelly accentuates the cheese's flavour. A pepper jelly goat cheese dip is another option for a delicious flavour explosion. This dip combines creamy goat cheese and cream cheese with pepper jelly and a few other ingredients. It can be served with garlicky crostini or crackers, or with baby carrots, radish slices, celery sticks, or baby sweet peppers for a low-carb option.

You can also simply place the goat cheese on a serving plate and spoon the jelly over the top, serving it with crackers and celery sticks.

Grilled options are also available, such as the Pepper Jelly Grilled Cheese.

Frequently asked questions