Cheese And Citrus: A Match Made In Heaven

Citrus fruits, like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, are known for their refreshing, bright flavours. While it may seem counterintuitive to pair citrus with cheese, there are some interesting ways to do so. The bitterness of the pith and ascorbic acid in citrus can overwhelm the nuanced flavours in cheese, so it's important to find the right combinations. For example, blue cheese pairs well with chocolate-covered orange peels, while a salty, creamy cheese like brie can complement the slight savouriness of blood oranges.

Blue cheese and chocolate-covered orange peels

Chocolate-covered orange peels are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed any time of the year, but they are especially popular during the holidays. They are also perfect for gifting or as an appetizer. The combination of sweet and bitter flavours in the chocolate-covered orange peels and the saltiness of the blue cheese creates a complex and delightful taste experience.

How to Make Chocolate-Covered Orange Peels

The process of making chocolate-covered orange peels is quite simple. First, you need to wash the oranges thoroughly, preferably organic oranges to avoid any chemicals. Then, cut off the top and bottom of the orange and make vertical incisions from top to bottom. Carefully remove the peel, trying not to include any of the flesh. Cut the peel into thin strips.

The next step is to boil the orange peels to reduce their bitterness. You can do this by bringing a pot of water to a boil, adding the peels, and boiling for about 5 minutes. Drain the water, refill the pot with fresh water, and boil the peels again. Repeat this process if needed until the desired level of bitterness is reached.

Now it's time to make the simple syrup. Combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Add the boiled orange peels to the simple syrup and simmer for about 30-60 minutes, or until the peels are translucent. Transfer the peels to a wire rack to cool and allow the excess syrup to drip off.

The final step is to dip the orange peels in melted chocolate. You can use dark, milk, or semisweet chocolate, depending on your preference. Place the chocolate-covered peels on a sheet of baking parchment or aluminium foil and let the chocolate set. You can speed up this process by placing them in the fridge.

Storing Chocolate-Covered Orange Peels

Chocolate-covered orange peels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for at least a week and up to a month. If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze them, and they will last for up to 3-4 months.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

You can sprinkle the chocolate-covered orange peels with salt or decorate them with chopped nuts or sprinkles. They can be served as a sweet treat on their own or paired with other cheeses and fruits for a more elaborate dessert or appetizer. As mentioned earlier, the combination of blue cheese and chocolate-covered orange peels is a unique and tasty pairing. The saltiness of the blue cheese complements the sweetness of the chocolate and the bitterness of the orange peel.

Chevre with lemon curd

Chevre, a classic French cheese, is a fresh cheese made from goat's milk. It is a very versatile cheese that takes on the flavours of herbs and spices well. Its texture depends on its moisture content, and it can vary from mild to tangy and crumbly to creamy. Chevre is considered a healthier cheese than those made from cow's milk as it is naturally lower in fat. It also has lower lactose content, making it a possible option for those who are lactose intolerant.

Lemon curd is a smooth and refreshing spread with a strong lemon flavour. It is often paired with chevre to create a unique combination with a sweet lemon twist. This pairing is known as Coeur de la Crème Bavarian Lemon Curd, and it is a popular choice for those who enjoy the refreshing taste of lemon cheesecake.

One way to enjoy Chevre with lemon curd is to spread it on a baguette or your favourite cracker. Top it with a sprig of thyme for a refreshing and savoury treat. This combination is perfect for those who enjoy the slight tanginess of goat cheese balanced by the sweetness of the lemon curd.

Another option is to use chevre and lemon curd as ingredients in a pie. For example, a blueberry, lemon, and chevre pie can be a delicious way to incorporate these flavours. The lemon adds a bright, tart note, while the chevre brings a creamy texture that enhances the overall flavour profile.

In conclusion, Chevre with lemon curd is a delightful combination that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether spread on bread or baked into a pie, the tangy chevre and sweet lemon curd create a refreshing and unique taste experience.

Aged cheddar with spice-stewed mandarins

When choosing the cheddar for this pairing, opt for an aged variety with a slightly sharp flavour profile. The nuttiness of the cheddar will complement the sweetness of the mandarins, creating a delightful contrast. Look for a dense, creamy texture in the cheese to provide a satisfying mouthfeel.

For the spice-stewed mandarins, select ripe, golden mandarins that are sweet and juicy. Peel and segment the mandarins, removing any bitter pith. Stew the mandarin segments in water with a hint of sugar to enhance their natural sweetness. Add a generous amount of holiday spices such as vanilla, whole cloves, allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The warmth and aroma of these spices will elevate the mandarins and create a festive flavour profile.

When pairing these two ingredients, you'll be treated to a delightful contrast of textures and flavours. The dense, creamy cheddar provides a savoury foundation, while the sweet and spiced mandarins add a burst of freshness. The nuttiness of the cheddar is accentuated by the holiday spices, creating a unique and indulgent experience.

To serve, arrange thin slices of the aged cheddar on a platter, allowing it to come to room temperature to enhance its flavour. Accompany the cheese with a generous spoonful of the spice-stewed mandarins, ensuring they are well-coated in the spiced syrup. This pairing is perfect as part of a holiday cheese course or as a decadent snack during the winter months.

For an extra touch of indulgence, consider adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chopped nuts over the cheddar and mandarins. This will enhance the sweetness and add a delightful crunch to the pairing. Enjoy this sensory journey, where the sharpness of the cheddar meets the sweet and spiced mandarins, creating a complex and unforgettable flavour profile.

Goat's cheese with cherries

Combining goats' cheese with cherries is a great way to create a delicious dish that is both sweet and savoury. This combination works well as a crostini, where the cherries are roasted and served on toasted baguette slices with a spread of goats' cheese.

For a simple recipe, start by pitting and halving the cherries, then toss them in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper, and roast in the oven at 400°F for 5-7 minutes. You can also add a splash of cherry liqueur, brandy, or cherry juice for extra flavour.

Meanwhile, slice a baguette and brush the slices with olive oil. Toast these in the oven for 7 minutes on the lower rack. When the cherries and bread are done, spread a generous amount of goats' cheese onto each crostini, top with 2-3 cherry halves, and garnish with a sprig of thyme. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze.

This dish is a perfect appetizer, combining the tangy flavour of goats' cheese with the sweetness of roasted cherries. It can also be served as a light dinner with a side salad and a glass of white or rosé wine.

Goats' cheese pairs well with cherries because it is a soft, mild cheese that allows the natural sweetness of the fruit to shine through. The relatively mild, yet tart flavour of the cheese also helps to balance the sweetness of the cherries, creating a refreshing and exciting combination.

When pairing citrus with cheese, it is important to note that the acidity and bitterness of the fruit can sometimes create an unpleasant combination. However, goats' cheese is a great option for pairing with citrus due to its mild and tangy flavour profile.

Brie with citrus brulee

Brie with Citrus Brûlée

A creative twist on the classic crème brûlée, this recipe combines the salty, buttery flavour of brie with the refreshing sweetness of citrus. The result is a delicious, sweet-and-savoury contrast that is sure to impress as an appetizer or dessert at your next dinner party.

Ingredients:

• 1 wheel of brie (8 oz)
• 2 tablespoons of turbinado sugar (or granulated sugar)
• Grapefruit and cara cara slices (or any citrus fruit of your choice)
• Brown sugar

Method:

• Preheat your oven to broil on high.
• Trim the top rind off the brie to expose the cheese.
• Broil for about a minute until the cheese is slightly gooey.
• Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the top of the brie.
• Either continue to broil until the sugar has caramelised, or use a kitchen torch for a more precise brûlée effect.
• Prepare your citrus slices by sprinkling them with brown sugar to create a brûlée effect. You can use a kitchen torch or broil in the oven to caramelise the sugar.
• Serve the brie with the brûléed citrus slices, along with toasted bread and crackers.

Tips:

• For the best results, use a double cream brie. Triple cream brie may be too soft to hold the caramelised sugar topping.
• Choose a brie that comes in a wooden box to help it retain its shape during cooking.
• If your brie doesn't come in a box, you can broil it directly on a baking sheet or in a small baking dish.
• Get creative with your toppings! Try adding fruit, nuts, cinnamon, or cardamom to enhance the flavour of your brie brûlée.

Frequently asked questions