Andy Montoya
Goat's cheese, also known as chèvre, is a French cheese made from goat's milk. It has a distinctive earthy, tangy, and tart flavour, and a creamy, soft texture. Goat's cheese is a popular ingredient in many recipes, but it can be expensive and may not be to everyone's taste. Fortunately, there are several alternative cheeses with similar flavours and textures that can be used in its place.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Production | Goat's cheese is made by curdling raw goat's milk and then pressing and draining the curds. |
| Taste | Tangy, earthy, deep, robust, and salty. |
| Texture | Creamy, soft, grainy, spreadable, crumbly, hard, flaky, smooth. |
| Aroma | Intense, pungent, "goaty", mild, delicate, sweet, light, fresh, salty, acidic, heavy. |
| Colour | Whiter than cow's milk cheeses. |
| Nutrition | Healthy fats, proteins, minerals, vitamins (including riboflavin/Vitamin B2), probiotics, and lower amounts of saturated fat and cholesterol. |
| Lactose Content | Low. |
| Substitutes | Cream cheese, Greek yoghurt, mascarpone, feta, cotija, blue cheese, ricotta, labneh, and more. |
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What You'll Learn
Feta cheese
Feta is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, pastries, and pasta. It is a good source of calcium, protein, vitamin B12, and riboflavin, and is also a probiotic food, containing beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut microbiome. However, it is important to consume feta in moderation as it is high in sodium and calorie-dense.
The process of making feta cheese involves cutting the curds into small cubes and slowly stirring to release the whey while maintaining the original temperature. The curds are then allowed to settle and are transferred to sanitized molds to drain overnight, turning frequently for the first two hours. The next day, the curd mass is cut into smaller pieces to facilitate salt absorption during brining. The cheese is then placed in brine for several weeks at room temperature and a further minimum of two months in a refrigerated, high-humidity environment.
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Cream cheese
Goat cheese, on the other hand, is made from goat's milk and has a distinctive, earthy, and robust flavour that is tangy and tart. It has a creamy texture and a unique flavour that makes it a popular ingredient. It is also known for its nutritional value, with healthy fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. Goat cheese is also lower in lactose, making it a good option for those with dairy sensitivities.
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Blue cheese
When substituting blue cheese for goat cheese, it is important to consider the specific type of blue cheese. Some varieties, like Cambazola, are milder and more similar to goat cheese in terms of texture and flavor. Other types of blue cheese, such as Roquefort, can be strong and piquant, offering a more intense experience.
Additionally, when preparing blue cheese, it is crucial to consider the wrapping. Blue cheese is sensitive to oxygen exposure and ultraviolet light, which can impact its flavor and color. To maintain its quality, it is recommended to wrap blue cheese in foil or specialized cheese paper to block light and limit oxygen exposure.
In summary, blue cheese can be a suitable substitute for goat cheese, offering a range of flavors and textures that can complement various dishes. When choosing a blue cheese, consider the desired intensity of flavor and the specific requirements of the recipe to ensure the best results.
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Mascarpone
While mascarpone is a good substitute for goat cheese in many dishes, it may not be suitable for recipes that require the sharpness and kick of goat cheese. In these cases, a blue cheese like Cambazola, or cheeses like feta and cotija, may be better substitutes.
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Greek yoghurt
Goat's cheese, also known as chèvre, is a French cheese made from goat's milk. It has a distinctive earthy, tangy, and tart flavour, a creamy texture, and a robust aroma. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to pizzas and spreads. However, if you're looking for an alternative, Greek yoghurt mixed with cream cheese can be a great substitute. Here's why:
Recipes to Use the Substitute In
The Greek yoghurt and cream cheese mixture works exceptionally well in pasta dishes and spreads. For example, you can use it in place of goat cheese in a creamy pasta sauce or as a spread on crackers or bread. It can also be a great base for dips, such as a spinach and artichoke dip or a dessert dip for fruit. Additionally, this substitute can be a good option for those who find the distinct "goaty" flavour of goat cheese too overpowering or simply want a more affordable option.
Other Substitutes
While Greek yoghurt and cream cheese can be a great combination, there are also other alternatives to goat cheese depending on the recipe and your specific needs. Feta cheese, for instance, is a great option for salads and Greek dishes. It has a similar texture and taste to goat cheese but is saltier, so adjustments to the recipe may be required. Labneh, a Mediterranean yogurt cheese, is another excellent substitute for spreads, providing a thick texture and tangy flavour. For those who want a vegan option, there are dairy-free and vegan cheeses on the market that can replicate the taste and texture of goat cheese.
Nutritional Benefits of Goat Cheese
It is worth noting that goat cheese offers several nutritional benefits. It is lower in lactose, making it a more digestible option for those with lactose intolerance. Additionally, goat cheese is a good source of healthy fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins, including riboflavin (Vitamin B2), which aids in cell production. Goat cheese also contains probiotics that promote gut health by supporting the growth of healthy bacteria in the stomach and intestines.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several alternatives to goat cheese, also known as chèvre or chevre. Some of the closest in terms of taste and texture include feta, cream cheese, mascarpone, and blue cheese.
Feta cheese is a great substitute for goat cheese in salads. It has a similar texture and taste profile, although it is a bit firmer and saltier.
Mascarpone, cream cheese, and labneh (Mediterranean yogurt cheese) are good options for dips and spreads.
Yes, there are several goat cheese alternatives that can be used in cooked dishes. Blue cheese, for example, is a good option for meat or poultry-based dishes, pasta, casseroles, and sauces.
