Cheese And Raspberry Jam: A Perfect Pairing

The combination of cheese and fruit is a heavenly match, dating back to the Middle Ages. The secret lies in the complementary nature of the two: the sweetness of jams perfectly balances the savoury notes of cheese. When it comes to raspberry jam, the cheese options are endless. Parmigiano-Reggiano and Brie are classic choices, but you can also opt for cream cheeses or even goat's cheese for a tangy twist. For a successful pairing, remember to keep the flavours balanced and avoid overwhelming one another.

Raspberry jam and Parmigiano-Reggiano

Parmigiano-Reggiano is often considered the "King of Cheeses". It is made in an area that includes three whole city territories: Parma, Reggio Emilia, and Modena, as well as parts of Mantova and Bologna. The name comes from the first two cities included in this area, which are also the two most involved in the making of this cheese. The cheese is the result of only three ingredients: cow's milk, salt, and rennet. The rules around the milk are strict: cows must be fed locally grown forage, and silage, fermented feeds, and animal flour are banned. Each wheel of cheese requires about 550 litres of milk, and the cheesemakers combine whole milk with naturally skimmed milk from the previous evening. The skimmed cream is used to make butter, a common side product of Parmigiano-Reggiano production.

The cheese is carefully crafted, following centuries-old traditions. Each wheel is meticulously aged for a minimum of 12 to 24 months, ensuring exceptional flavour and texture. The use of raw milk and a natural ageing process contribute to the cheese's unparalleled quality. Parmigiano-Reggiano is also naturally lactose-free, as lactose is lost during the making process.

When pairing raspberry jam with Parmigiano-Reggiano, it is important to remember that the goal is to offer tastes that complement each other, not overpower one another. The cheese and jam should be served as one accompaniment to the other, rather than mixed together. The jam should not be poured over the cheese, as this can affect the flavour and texture of the cheese. Instead, serve the jam on the side, allowing your guests to enjoy the cheese itself as well as the combination of the two.

To create a memorable experience, you can serve the pairing with wine, additional fruits, black walnuts or smoked almonds, artisan bread, and fresh basil or ginger. When serving, it is best to chill the jam and serving dish to keep the jam fresh in appearance and flavour, while the cheese should be at room temperature.

Other cheeses that go with raspberry jam

Raspberry jam pairs well with several types of cheese, but you can also pair it with other condiments, fruits, and drinks to create a more sophisticated experience. When serving jam and cheese, it is recommended to chill the jam and serving dish beforehand. This will help keep the jam fresh in appearance and flavour.

• Cream cheese is a good pairing with raspberry jam. The mild flavour and creamy mouthfeel of this cheese pair well with most jams, especially red fruits.
• Brie is another cheese that goes well with raspberry jam. This cheese also has a mild flavour and luxurious mouthfeel, making it a good match for sweet or savoury jams.
• Parmigiano-Reggiano is a popular cheese to pair with raspberry jam. This mature, savoury cheese is balanced by the sweetness of the jam.
• Goat's cheese is a versatile option that pairs well with most jams. Its spreadable texture and tangy flavour make it a good match for sweeter jams.
• Gouda is a mild, fatty cheese that can be paired with raspberry jam. It is recommended to balance this combination with other salty or acidic foods, such as olives or citrus fruits.

Other jams that go with Parmigiano-Reggiano

Parmigiano-Reggiano is a hard, dry cheese with a rich, sharp flavour. It is made from skimmed or partially skimmed cow's milk and has a pale-golden rind and straw-coloured interior. The cheese is typically aged for at least two years, with some varieties aged for three or four years, or more. Its complex flavour and texture are a result of this long ageing process.

When pairing jams with Parmigiano-Reggiano, it is important to consider the composition of the cheese, particularly the type of milk used. The intensity of a cheese's flavour can vary depending on whether it is made from cow, sheep, or goat's milk. The sharpness of the cheese will also influence the type of jam that pairs well with it. Generally, sharper cheeses pair better with sweeter jams, while milder, creamier cheeses work well with more complex, tangy, or tart flavours.

• Apricot jam: This sweet and ripe fruit pairs well with the complex and robust flavour of Parmigiano-Reggiano.
• Fig jam: Fig is a versatile fruit that goes well with most cheeses, especially those with a sharp flavour like Parmigiano-Reggiano. A fig jam with a bit of spice can complement the cheese's rich, sharp notes.
• Blueberry jam: This sweet and slightly tangy jam goes well with moderately aged to older cheeses. While it also pairs well with milder cheeses, a sharper cheese like Parmigiano-Reggiano can still work well.
• Cherry jam: While cherry jam is tangy and typically pairs with milder cheeses, many cheese experts prefer to pair it with robust, sharp cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano.
• Chestnut jam: Although not technically a fruit jam, chestnut jam is rich and nutty and is often paired with Parmigiano-Reggiano. This combination may be less traditional but can still offer a unique and enjoyable flavour experience.

When creating a cheese and jam pairing, it is important to remember that the goal is to complement the flavours rather than have one overpower the other. The ratio of jam to cheese also matters; a small dollop of jam per slice of cheese is ideal to ensure neither element is overwhelmed.

Other foods to serve with raspberry jam and cheese

When creating a cheese and jam pairing, it is important to consider the composition of the product, especially the type of milk used. The intensity of a cheese's flavour changes depending on whether it is made from cow, sheep, or goat's milk. Fresh or soft cheeses are usually sweeter, while semi-mature and mature cheeses have a stronger flavour.

To create a balanced pairing, it is recommended to serve mature and savoury cheeses with something sweet, like jam. In addition to raspberry jam, other jams that pair well with mature and savoury cheeses include pear, plum, cherry, strawberry, and apricot.

• Wine: A fruity wine can complement the sweetness of the jam and the savouriness of the cheese. A white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio may be a good choice if you are including a lot of fruit jams on your cheese plate.
• Fruits: Fresh fruits such as apples or citrus fruits can add a crunchy texture and a tangy, acidic flavour to the plate.
• Nuts: Walnuts or smoked almonds can provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy texture of the cheese and the jam.
• Bread: Artisan bread or slices of baguette can be used to spread the cheese and jam.
• Herbs: Fresh basil or ginger can add a pop of colour and a refreshing flavour to the plate.
• Meats: Salty, cured meats or smoked fish can add a savoury note to the plate.
• Crackers: Seeded or unseeded crackers can provide a crunchy texture to contrast with the creamy cheese and jam.

Wine pairings

Raspberry jam is a versatile condiment that can be paired with various wines to enhance its sweet and tangy flavour. Here are some suggestions for wine pairings to complement raspberry jam:

Sparkling Wines:

The crisp acidity and delicate bubbles of a sparkling wine can nicely offset the sweetness of raspberry jam. Look for a dry or brut sparkling wine, such as a traditional Champagne or an Italian Prosecco. These wines will provide a refreshing contrast to the jam's fruity flavour.

Riesling:

A slightly sweet Riesling, preferably with a hint of tartness, can make an excellent pairing. The wine's crisp acidity and subtle fruit flavours will complement the raspberry jam without overwhelming it. Look for a Riesling from Germany or the Alsace region of France for the best match.

Rosé:

A crisp and dry rosé wine can also be a good choice. The wine's delicate fruit flavours and refreshing quality will pair well with the raspberry jam. Try a rosé from Provence, France, or a domestic variety made with Pinot Noir or Grenache grapes.

Pinot Noir:

For a red wine option, consider a light- to medium-bodied Pinot Noir. These wines often exhibit red fruit flavours, such as cherry and raspberry, which can create a delightful synergy with the raspberry jam. Look for a Pinot Noir from Burgundy, France, or Oregon for a classic expression of this varietal.

Dessert Wines:

If you're feeling indulgent, consider pairing raspberry jam with a dessert wine. A late-harvest Riesling, Sauternes from Bordeaux, or a Vin Santo from Italy can provide a luscious match. The sweetness of the wine will complement the jam, creating a decadent tasting experience.

When creating wine pairings, it is important to consider the balance of flavours. The key is to avoid having one flavour overpower the other. Additionally, serving temperature can play a role in the overall experience. Chilling your raspberry jam and serving it with the wine at the optimal temperature will enhance the tasting experience.

Frequently asked questions