Kamil Perry
A cheese hamper is a perfect gift for any cheese lover. It is a great way to indulge in one's favourite foods or to give a special thank you to someone. The ideal hamper should include a variety of cheeses with different textures and flavours, such as creamy bries, mature cheddars, goats' cheese, blue cheese, and crumbly cheeses like Cornish Yarg. To elevate the hamper, one can include complementary items such as crackers, chutneys, snacks, fruits, nuts, cured meats, and even a bottle of wine. For the ultimate luxurious touch, consider adding chocolates or port.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheeses | Blue cheese, Brie, Camembert, Cheddar, Feta, Stilton, Roquefort, Gorgonzola, Dorset Blue Vinny, Ticklemore, Goats Cheese, Harlech, Dolcelatte, Gouda, Cheshire, Ossau-Iraty, Cornish Yarg, Long Clawson Dairy Rutland Red, Single Gloucester, Vintage Organic Cheddar, Baron Bigod, Westcombe Cheddar, Pie D'Anglois |
| Pairings | Crackers, Bread, Fruit, Nuts, Chutney, Honey, Jams, Wine, Port, Sherry, Chardonnay, Prosecco, Meat, Chocolate |
| Accessories | Cheese slicer, Knives, Grater, Cheese board, Dome, Fondue set |
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What You'll Learn
- Cheese varieties: Blue, Brie, Camembert, Cheddar, Feta, and Stilton
- Pairing wine: White, red, port, or sparkling
- Crackers and biscuits: Water biscuits, flavoured crispbreads, and cheese crackers
- Extras: Chutneys, jams, honey, cured meats, fruit, and nuts
- Accessories: Cheese board, grater, knives, and fondue set
Cheese varieties: Blue, Brie, Camembert, Cheddar, Feta, and Stilton
When creating a cheese hamper, it is important to consider flavour, texture, and versatility. Here is some information about the cheese varieties you mentioned:
Blue
Blue cheese is known for its strong, distinct flavour and creamy texture. Some popular options include Roquefort, which has a balanced saltiness and citrussy notes, and Harrogate Blue, which is both creamy and flavourful. A blue cheese hamper could also include wine, as blue cheese pairs well with a fresh, unoaked red wine such as Domaine des Pourthie Merlot 2017.
Brie
Brie is a soft, creamy cheese with a mild, buttery flavour. It is versatile and pairs well with crackers and bread, as well as sandwiches and salads. The Angiddy Brie from Brooke's Dairy is an award-winning option, similar in style to Brie or Camembert, with a rich, creamy taste.
Camembert
Camembert is a soft, creamy cheese similar to Brie. The classic Camembert de Normandie is a popular choice, known for its rich, intense flavour. However, there are also less intense options available, such as the Petit Camembert or the one from the Graindorge dairy in Livarot, which is just as delicious but less powerful.
Cheddar
Cheddar is one of the most popular cheeses in the UK, with a sharp, tangy flavour and a firm texture that makes it easy to slice and grate. It is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and burgers. Some specific varieties to consider include Black Wax Cheddar, Black Bomber, and Harlech.
Feta
Feta is a Greek cheese known for its salty, tangy flavour and crumbly texture. It is often used in salads, but can also be added to sandwiches or wraps. Feta does not typically mature or develop mould, so it does not need to be aged.
Stilton
Stilton is a strong, crumbly, yet creamy cheese with a distinctive flavour. It is often paired with port, and this combination makes for a luxurious gift. Some specific varieties to consider include Blue Stilton and Long Clawson Dairy Rutland Red.
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Pairing wine: White, red, port, or sparkling
When it comes to wine, there are a few classic pairings to consider for your cheese hamper. Firstly, it is worth noting that all cheeses have a wine they will match well with, and the traditional rule of thumb is to choose a white wine. The acidity and sweeter notes of white wines complement the cheese, but if you want to go for a red, opt for a full-bodied variety such as a Merlot.
If you are including blue cheese in your hamper, such as Stilton, Roquefort, or Gorgonzola, then port or sherry is an excellent choice. Blue cheese also goes well with Chardonnay and prosecco. The saltiness of blue cheese and goat's cheese also pairs well with sweet wines, as the saltiness brings out the sweetness.
Soft cheeses like Brie, goat's cheese, and Camembert go well with softer reds, such as Merlot, or a light Pinot Noir. A red Rioja from Spain can be paired with Manchego, and a crisp Albariño with Parmesan. A full-bodied Pinot Noir from California would work with a semi-hard cheese like Munster or Fontina.
If you are including a mature cheddar, consider a full-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, or Malbec. Beaujolais and Jarlsberg are also a classic pairing, as are Gamay Noir and Comte, Zweigelt and Emmental, and Sangiovese Rosé and Mozzarella.
For a hamper with a variety of cheeses, a bottle of port or Champagne is a good choice, as these wines go well with many different types of cheese.
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Crackers and biscuits: Water biscuits, flavoured crispbreads, and cheese crackers
When it comes to crackers and biscuits, there are a variety of options to choose from to accompany the cheeses in your hamper.
Water biscuits are a simple yet classic choice, providing a neutral base to enjoy a variety of cheeses. Flavoured crispbreads offer a more exciting option with a range of flavours to choose from. Herb and garlic or salt and pepper flavours are popular choices, and for those who enjoy a bit of spice, there are also spicy crispbreads available.
Cheese crackers are, of course, a natural pairing and come in a variety of styles. For something a little different, you could try making your own rosemary crackers with a simple flour, water, and oil dough, or opt for manchego and chorizo biscuits. If you're looking for something a little more indulgent, posh crackers or Bath Olivers are recommended.
When arranging your hamper, remember to place heavier items, such as cheeseboards or bottles of wine, at the bottom and towards the back. Smaller items, such as crackers and biscuits, can be placed on top of bulkier items so they are visible and don't get crushed.
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Extras: Chutneys, jams, honey, cured meats, fruit, and nuts
When it comes to the extras, you can't go wrong with chutneys, jams, honey, cured meats, fruit, and nuts. These additions will elevate your cheese hamper and provide a well-rounded gourmet experience.
Chutneys are a classic pairing with cheese, and you can choose from a variety of flavours, such as caramelised red onion, beetroot and apple, or something with a kick like chilli jam. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even try membrillo, a type of quince paste that pairs beautifully with cheese.
Jams are another delightful option, offering both sweet and savoury options. Consider a black cherry jam or something more unusual like a spicy chilli jam. Honey is also a wonderful addition, providing a natural sweetness that complements the cheese.
Cured meats are a delicious savoury extra. Salami, prosciutto, or other dry-cured meats will add a hearty, savoury element to the hamper. You could also include some regional specialties, such as Spanish chorizo or Italian salami.
Fresh and dried fruits are excellent choices to include in your hamper. Berries and crunchy apples go perfectly with soft cheeses, while dried fruits like apricots or berries complement hard cheeses. You could also include some exotic fruits for a touch of the unusual, such as fresh figs or mangoes.
Lastly, nuts are a wonderful addition, providing texture and flavour. Consider a mix of roasted nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, and pecans. You could also include some flavoured nuts, such as honey-roasted peanuts or chilli-coated almonds, for an extra punch of flavour. These extras will provide a delightful contrast to the cheese and create a well-rounded and indulgent hamper.
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Accessories: Cheese board, grater, knives, and fondue set
A cheese hamper is a delightful gift for any occasion, and you can make it extra special by including some handy accessories. Here are some ideas for accessories to include with your cheese hamper:
Cheese board: A beautiful cheese board is a perfect addition to any cheese hamper. It provides a practical surface for preparing and serving the cheese, and it can also add a touch of elegance to the presentation. Look for a board made from materials like wood or slate, which will complement the cheeses and create a rustic or sophisticated feel.
Grater: Including a grater in your cheese hamper can be a useful and versatile tool. It allows the recipient to grate hard cheeses, such as a mature cheddar or Parmesan, into shavings or fine particles, adding texture and flavour to their dishes. A grater can also be used to zest citrus fruits, which pairs wonderfully with certain cheeses.
Knives: A set of small knives designed specifically for cheese is an excellent addition to your hamper. These knives can have unique shapes and sizes, making it easier to cut and serve different types of cheeses. Some knives have distinctive handles, like mouse-shaped designs, adding a playful touch to the cheese-tasting experience.
Fondue set: For something a little different, consider including a small cheese fondue set in your hamper. Fondue is a fun and interactive way to enjoy cheese, and it can be a social dining experience. A fondue set typically includes a pot for melting the cheese, along with forks for dipping bread, vegetables, or other tasty treats into the warm, gooey delight.
These accessories will not only enhance the enjoyment of the cheese but also provide lasting tools for future cheese-related endeavours, making the hamper a memorable and well-appreciated gift.
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Frequently asked questions
It is best to include a variety of cheeses with different textures and flavours. Some popular options are:
- Cheddar: Mature, smooth, creamy, vintage, organic, or Black Wax.
- Blue Cheese: Stilton, Dorset Blue Vinny, Roquefort, or Gorgonzola.
- Soft Cheese: Brie, Feta, Camembert, or Ticklemore.
- Other: Pie d'Angloys, Gouda with caraway seeds, Harlech, or goat's cheese.
Some popular food items to include in a cheese hamper are:
- Crackers: Artisanal, gourmet, or flavoured crispbreads.
- Chutneys: Caramelised red onion, beetroot and apple, or chilli jam.
- Fruits: Berries, crunchy apples, apricots, or black cherry jam.
- Cured meats.
- Nuts.
- Honey.
A cheese hamper often includes a bottle of wine or port, with white wine being the traditional pairing. However, a full-bodied red wine like Merlot can also be considered if the recipient is a red wine lover. Other drink options include sherry, chardonnay, or prosecco.
Yes, some non-food items that can be included in a cheese hamper are:
- Cheeseboard.
- Cheese knives.
- Cheese grater.
- Fondue set.
- Cheese dome or cheese slicer.
