Cheese And Plum Jam: A Perfect Pairing

The sweetness of honey plum jam or cinnamon plum jam can be a delightful complement to the saltiness of cheese, making it a perfect addition to a cheeseboard. Brie is a popular choice to pair with plum jam, but other cheeses such as Gruyere, Alp Blossom, Roquefort, and blue cheese can also be excellent options. For a unique twist, consider adding plum fruit cheese with lime to your platter, which has a firmer texture that slices like cheese while offering a sweet and savoury taste. If you're feeling creative, you can even try making plum jam and sharp cheddar grilled cheese French toast for a mouthwatering combination of sweet and salty flavours.

Brie and plum jam

When preparing Brie and plum jam as an appetiser, opt for a ripe, high-quality Brie that is soft and creamy. Allow the cheese to come to room temperature before serving, ensuring the flavours are at their most expressive. For the plum jam, consider making your own with fresh, seasonal plums. You can add a twist by incorporating honey instead of sugar, resulting in a deeper, more nuanced sweetness. The jam's vibrant colour and fruity aroma will also enhance the overall dining experience.

In terms of presentation, a simple yet elegant approach is to place a wheel of Brie on a wooden board, surrounded by a generous amount of plum jam. Accompany this with crackers or toasted bread, allowing your guests to assemble their own bites. You can also get creative by adding complementary garnishes, such as fresh thyme or lavender, which will elevate the flavours and add a touch of sophistication to the dish.

For a more substantial offering, consider using Brie and plum jam as a topping for rice cakes or crostini. Spread a layer of Brie on each rice cake or crostini, followed by a generous dollop of plum jam. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts or fresh herbs on top for added texture and flavour. This option makes for a delightful appetiser or even a light lunch, especially when served with a refreshing glass of white wine or a crisp rosé.

When pairing wine with Brie and plum jam, look for something that will complement the sweetness of the jam and the creaminess of the cheese. A crisp Pinot Grigio or a slightly sweet Riesling would be excellent choices. If you're feeling adventurous, a glass of bubbly Prosecco or a bold, fruity Zinfandel could also work well. Play around with different options to find your preferred pairing.

Lastly, don't be afraid to experiment with different varieties of Brie and plum jam. Explore options like double or triple cream Brie, which have higher butterfat content and an even creamier texture. You can also try different types of plum jam, such as those made with cinnamon or vanilla, to add extra depth of flavour to your culinary creations. Remember, the key to a successful pairing is to trust your palate and have fun with your food!

Cheddar and plum jam French toast

Ingredients

• 8 slices of bread (sourdough or your favourite bread)
• 6 oz sharp cheddar, sliced
• 1/4 cup of milk
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 lb plums, pitted and roughly chopped
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cardamom

Method

First, make the plum jam. Add the plums, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices to a small/medium saucepan and stir to combine over medium heat. If your plums are hard, cover and cook for 2 minutes to soften. Cook the soft plums for 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently and smashing the plum pieces against the sides and bottom of the pot, until the mixture has thickened slightly. It should be thinner than cold jam but thicker than a syrup. Set aside.

Next, assemble the French toast. On 4 slices of bread, arrange the cheddar cheese, and then top with a spoonful of the plum jam. You should use about half to two-thirds of the jam for the sandwiches. Then, cover each with another slice of bread. Grease a griddle or other large, flat pan and warm over medium heat.

In a flat-bottomed dish, whisk together the eggs and milk. Carefully dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, holding it together with your hands. Flip the sandwich over to coat the other side, then let any excess drip off before placing the sandwich on the hot griddle, cheese-side down.

Cook the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes on each side, loosely covering the pan with foil. The bread should be golden brown, and the cheese melted, when done. Remove from the pan and serve warm with additional jam on top.

Tips

• Any type of plum will work for this recipe, but Italian or prune plums are particularly easy to work with and pit.
• A firmer plum will be easier to cut and will be slightly tarter than a very ripe plum.
• Don't peel the plums, as their thin skin adds a lot of flavour.
• You can use a milder cheddar if you prefer, but a medium-sharp aged cheddar is recommended for the full effect.
• Sourdough bread adds a nice flavour to this dish, especially when made with a mix of hearty whole grain and fluffy all-purpose flour. However, you can use whatever type of bread you like best.
• Thinner slices of bread will work, but stay away from super flimsy breads that won't be able to hold the cheese and jam.
• If your bread has large holes, plug them with extra cheese to prevent the jam from leaking out.
• The sandwiches are best made just before cooking and should not be prepared in advance.
• Leftovers can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for 1-2 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, and serve with warm jam.
• The plum jam can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for 2-4 weeks.

Alpine cheeses and plum compote

When crafting this pairing, opt for a plum compote recipe that highlights the natural sweetness of the fruit. A combination of cinnamon, clove, star anise, and lemon zest and juice can enhance the depth of flavour in the compote. For an extra layer of complexity, consider adding ground cherries or gooseberries, which provide a pop of tartness that will contrast nicely with the creaminess of the cheese.

When selecting your Alpine cheese, look for options made from cow's milk, as their rich and nutty characteristics will marry perfectly with the compote. If you're feeling adventurous, explore varieties with a hint of pungency, such as Scharffe Maxx, to add a bold dimension to the pairing.

To elevate this culinary experience further, consider serving the Alpine cheese and plum compote with complementary beverages. A nice Dunkel or Bock, such as Occidental Port or Zinfandel, will enhance the flavours of the pairing. For a bolder choice, a Bourbon of your choice can also be a delightful companion.

When presenting this pairing, arrange the cheese on a platter, allowing it to reach room temperature before serving. Accompany it with a generous serving of the homemade plum compote, and don't forget to provide some crackers or toasted bread on the side. The combination of textures and flavours will create a memorable culinary journey for you and your guests.

Goat's cheese and plum compote

Goats Cheese and Plum Compote

A classic combination, the pairing of fruit and cheese is a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the fruit is offset by the savoury notes of the cheese, creating a delightful contrast of flavours. When it comes to plum jam or compote, there are a variety of cheeses that complement its unique flavour, from sharp cheddar to creamy brie. However, for a truly exceptional pairing, consider combining goats' cheese with plum compote.

Goats' cheese is known for its tangy, sharp flavour and creamy texture. It is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to pastas. When paired with plum compote, the bright, herbaceous notes of the cheese are enhanced by the sweet and tart flavours of the compote. The creaminess of the cheese also helps to anchor the compote, creating a well-rounded and satisfying bite.

To create this delicious pairing, start by selecting a high-quality goats' cheese. Look for a cheese that is creamy and smooth, with a slight tang. Next, prepare your plum compote. This can be made by cooking plums with sugar, spices, and a touch of lemon juice. The addition of spices like cinnamon and star anise will enhance the flavour of the plums and add a warm, autumnal touch to your dish.

Once you have your cheese and compote, the pairing possibilities are endless. For a simple yet elegant appetiser, serve the goats' cheese at room temperature with a generous spoonful of plum compote on the side. You can also use the compote as a topping for crackers or toasted bread, with the goats' cheese either spread on top or served on the side. If you're feeling creative, try incorporating the pairing into a salad or using it as a flavourful addition to a cheese plate.

When it comes to drinks, there are several options that will complement the flavours of the goats' cheese and plum compote. A nice Dunkel or Bock beer will provide a crisp, refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. For wine lovers, a Zinfandel or a bold Bourbon will also pair well with the sweet and savoury notes of the cheese and compote.

So, the next time you're looking for a unique and delicious flavour combination, give goats' cheese and plum compote a try. With its contrasting flavours and textures, this pairing is sure to impress and satisfy any cheese and fruit enthusiast.

Blue cheese and plum compote

Blue cheese is a strong-flavoured, pungent cheese that pairs well with sweet elements. Plum jam or compote is a sweet preserve that can be made using seasonal prune plums or Italian plums. The plums are cooked with sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and other spices to create a thick, spreadable jam.

When creating a blue cheese and plum compote pairing, it is important to consider the different types of blue cheese and plum compote available. For example, a creamy blue cheese like Roquefort or a Spanish blue cheese like Leonora can be paired with a plum compote made with ground cherries and star anise. The creaminess of the blue cheese will anchor the sweet plums, while the spices and herbs in the compote will add depth of flavour.

Alternatively, a sharper, more pungent blue cheese like Stilton or Gorgonzola can be paired with a tart cinnamon plum compote. The sweetness of the compote will balance the sharpness of the blue cheese, creating a harmonious flavour combination.

When serving blue cheese and plum compote, it is recommended to bring the cheese to room temperature to allow the flavours to fully develop. The blue cheese can be served on a slate or wooden board, accompanied by the plum compote and other accompaniments such as nuts, honey, and fresh or dried fruit.

Overall, blue cheese and plum compote is a delicious and unique pairing that combines sweet and savoury flavours. By selecting complementary varieties of blue cheese and plum compote, and serving them at the optimal temperature, this combination can be elevated to create a sophisticated and impressive dish.

Frequently asked questions