Truffle Goat Cheese: The Perfect Flavor Pairings

Truffles are a type of fungus that grows underground and are known for their earthy, pungent, nutty, and umami flavor. Goat cheese, on the other hand, is known for its tanginess and creaminess. When combined, these two ingredients create a unique and decadent flavor profile that has become a favorite among food enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore the magic that happens when truffles meet goat cheese, and provide suggestions for dishes and pairings that will enhance this exquisite combination. From pasta to risotto, grilled cheese to pizza, and even dessert, we will uncover the endless possibilities for creating unforgettable culinary experiences with truffle goat cheese.

Truffle goat cheese pairs well with pasta

When cooking pasta with truffle goat cheese, you can add other ingredients such as mushrooms, garlic, lemon juice, basil, and olive oil. You can also grate truffle goat cheese over pasta, or mix it with the pasta and other ingredients to create a creamy sauce.

Ingredients:

• Truffle goat cheese
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Black pepper
• Fresh basil leaves
• Portabello mushrooms
• Salt
• Garlic
• Lemon juice

Instructions:

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
• Heat olive oil in a saute pan and add the mushrooms. Sprinkle with salt and cook for 5-10 minutes.
• Add the garlic and saute for 1 minute.
• In a blender or food processor, combine the cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Slowly add olive oil until the sauce is emulsified.
• Cook the pasta in the boiling water for 8-10 minutes or according to package instructions. Drain and place in a large bowl.
• Add the mushrooms and cheese sauce to the pasta and mix well.
• Top with fresh basil leaves and enjoy!

This dish can be paired with a glass of Chenin Blanc or light-bodied Pinot Noir to enhance the flavour of the truffle goat cheese and pasta combination.

It can be used in grilled cheese sandwiches

Truffle goat cheese can be used in grilled cheese sandwiches. The strong, earthy, and nutty flavour of truffles, combined with the creamy, tangy, and grassy flavour of goat cheese, creates a unique and indulgent sandwich.

To make a grilled cheese sandwich with truffle goat cheese, start by selecting a crusty bread of your choice. Sourdough or a rustic country loaf would work well. Butter the outside of each slice of bread generously. This will add flavour and help the sandwich to brown and crisp up as it cooks.

For the filling, you can simply use the truffle goat cheese on its own. However, if you want to add some extra flavours, there are several options that pair well with the cheese. Sliced mushrooms can enhance the earthiness of the truffles, especially if they are cooked beforehand to release their moisture. Fresh herbs such as basil or thyme can also be added to bring out the tanginess of the goat cheese. If you want a hint of spice, a sprinkle of black pepper can complement the other flavours in the sandwich.

Assemble the sandwich by spreading the truffle goat cheese on one slice of bread, adding any additional fillings, and then topping it with the other slice of bread. Cook the sandwich in a hot pan or on a griddle until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. Serve the grilled cheese sandwich immediately while it's still hot and the cheese is gooey.

The strong flavour of the truffle goat cheese means that this sandwich can stand on its own as a dish, but if you want to add a side, a simple green salad or some crispy fries can round out the meal.

It can be grated over pizza

Truffle goat cheese can be a fantastic addition to a pizza. The earthy, pungent, nutty, and "umami" flavours of truffles can bring a unique taste to your pizza. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you create a delicious truffle goat cheese pizza:

Choosing the Right Truffle Goat Cheese

Start by selecting a high-quality truffle goat cheese. Look for options that have a strong truffle aroma and flavour, such as Laura Chenel's Marinated Black Truffle goat cheese. This variety offers a strong truffle flavour without breaking the bank. Alternatively, you can opt for Cypress Grove's Truffle Tremor, a pasteurised goat's milk cheese with a soft, fluffy texture and bits of black truffle.

Preparing the Pizza Dough

When making your pizza dough, consider using a simple recipe that won't overpower the truffle flavour. You can find basic pizza dough recipes online or purchase pre-made dough from specialty stores. If you're short on time, a quick pizza dough can be made by mixing self-rising flour and Greek yoghurt in equal parts.

Toppings and Combinations

When it comes to toppings, keep in mind that truffles pair well with ingredients like mushrooms, eggs, and macaroni. You can also experiment with other combinations such as black mission figs, fresh sage, and Asiago cheese, as suggested by a Reddit user who created a pizza with truffle gouda. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some truffle goat cheese to your pizza along with other complementary toppings.

Grating the Truffle Goat Cheese

Once you've selected your cheese and prepared your dough, it's time to grate the truffle goat cheese over your pizza. Use a generous amount to ensure the flavour comes through. You can grate the cheese directly over the pizza before baking or add it as a finishing touch after baking for a stronger truffle aroma.

Baking and Serving

Bake your pizza according to your dough recipe's instructions. Truffle goat cheese pairs well with a glass of sparkling wine or pinot noir, so consider serving your pizza with one of these beverages. Enjoy your homemade truffle goat cheese pizza, and feel free to experiment with different toppings and combinations to find your favourite flavour profile!

It can be melted into fondue

Truffle goat cheese can be melted into fondue to create a luxurious and indulgent dish. Fondue is a perfect way to showcase the unique and earthy flavour of truffle goat cheese, and it can be a fun and interactive way to enjoy this delicious cheese with friends or family. Here are some tips and ideas for creating a memorable truffle goat cheese fondue experience:

When selecting a truffle goat cheese for your fondue, look for a cheese with a strong truffle aroma and flavour. The cheese should have a soft or semi-soft texture, as this will melt smoothly and evenly into the fondue. Some recommended truffle goat cheeses include Truffle Tremor by Cypress Grove, a pasteurized goat's milk cheese with a soft, fluffy texture and bits of black truffle, or Moliterno Black Truffle Pecorino, a Sardinian sheep's milk cheese with an earthy, nutty, and salty flavour layered with black truffle paste.

To prepare the fondue, start by heating a pot over medium heat. Add some white wine or broth to the pot and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually add shredded or cubed truffle goat cheese to the liquid, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and well combined. Season the fondue with a pinch of black pepper and a small amount of nutmeg or coriander to enhance the flavour of the truffles. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a little bit of milk or cream to adjust the texture.

For dipping, choose a variety of fresh, crusty breads and vegetables. Sliced baguette, crusty sourdough, and soft pretzel bread are all excellent options. You can also offer blanched asparagus spears, steamed broccoli florets, or roasted baby potatoes. When serving, keep the fondue warm over a low flame to maintain its creamy texture. Enjoy the fondue by dipping the bread and vegetables into the melted truffle goat cheese, savouring each indulgent bite.

To elevate your truffle goat cheese fondue even further, consider pairing it with a glass of sparkling wine or pinot noir. The effervescence and acidity of the wine will complement the richness of the fondue and enhance the overall dining experience. Remember to enjoy the fondue while it's hot and creamy, as it tends to thicken as it cools.

It can be served with sparkling wine or pinot noir

Truffle goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can elevate a simple dish into something special. When serving truffle goat cheese, it is best to keep the presentation simple, allowing the truffle flavour to shine. A sliced baguette or plain crackers are all you need to showcase this luxurious cheese.

To further enhance the experience, consider serving it with a glass of sparkling wine or pinot noir. The bubbles in sparkling wine can complement the creamy texture of the goat cheese, while the acidity and red fruit notes of a pinot noir can balance the earthy, nutty flavours of the truffles.

For a truly indulgent experience, create a cheese board with truffle goat cheese as the star. Include some sliced baguette, crackers, fresh and dried fruit, charcuterie, and a selection of nuts. This way, your guests can create their own flavour combinations and discover their favourite pairings.

If you're feeling creative, truffle goat cheese can also be used in cooking. It can be grated over eggs, pasta, pizza, or even mac 'n' cheese. For a comforting dish, try making a risotto with truffle goat cheese, or simply stir it through hot pasta with some herbs and vegetables for an easy weeknight meal.

So, whether you're enjoying it on a cheese board or cooked into your favourite dish, pairing truffle goat cheese with sparkling wine or pinot noir is a wonderful way to enhance its unique and decadent flavour.

Frequently asked questions