Discovering The Perfect Pairings For Ginger Spice Cheddar Cheese

Ginger spice cheddar cheese is a unique combination of flavours, blending rich, creamy, mature cheddar with the sweetness of crystallised ginger. This dessert cheese is a standout addition to any cheeseboard, with its deep orange wax and sweet-savoury balance. While it can be enjoyed on its own, there are several ways to enhance this flavour combination. For drinks, a chilled sweet Muscat or an Alsatian Gewürztraminer is recommended. For food, ginger spice cheddar can be used in a macaroni and cheese recipe, adding a light zip to the dish. It can also be paired with sharp, crumbly biscuits, such as speculoos cookies, or with a ginger tea.

Ginger spice cheddar cheese and apple souffle with butterscotch sauce

Ingredients

For the soufflé:

• 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 pinch each of: freshly ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg
• 3 ounces sharp white Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 egg yolks
• 2 egg whites

For the butterscotch sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon flaky salt
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method

First, make the soufflé. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the apples to the butter and cook until they just begin to soften, about 2 minutes. Sprinkle with sugar and continue to cook until apples are soft and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. Transfer apples to a plate and spread out to cool.

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease 4 ramekins generously with butter and place them on a sheet pan.

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook until the mixture is smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Pour milk into the roux, bring to a simmer, and whisk until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let the white sauce cool to lukewarm temperature.

Pour the white sauce into a large mixing bowl and whisk in the salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, nutmeg, and egg yolks. Stir in the Cheddar cheese until thoroughly combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until they hold soft, fluffy peaks, about 2 minutes. Gently fold half of the beaten egg whites into the souffle batter, then repeat with the remaining whites to make a soft, airy batter. Fold in the cooled apple mixture. Divide the mixture into the prepared ramekins.

Bake in the preheated oven until the soufflés have risen and the tops are browned, about 22 minutes. The soufflés will fall slightly as they cool, so be sure to serve them warm.

Now, make the butterscotch sauce. Melt the butter in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, salt, and heavy cream, stirring with a rubber spatula until well blended. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Transfer the sauce to a container and let it cool. The sauce will thicken as it cools, so be careful not to over-boil it.

Finally, serve the soufflés with a generous drizzle of the butterscotch sauce. Enjoy!

Ginger macaroni and cheese

Ingredients

• 16 oz. pasta noodles of your choice
• 16 oz. heavy cream
• 16 oz. total of cheese (cheddar, smoked gouda, and gruyere)
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1/3 lb bacon, chopped and fried
• 1 tablespoon dry mustard
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 square inch fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons Italian parsley, chopped
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• Fresh peppercorn, crushed to taste
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs

Method

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Fill a large pan with 6 quarts of water, add 1 teaspoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt, and bring to a full boil. Add the pasta, reduce the heat, and cook according to the package instructions.

In a large saute pan over medium-low heat, add sliced or grated cheese, ginger, and cream. Heat and stir until the cheese is completely melted. Add flour to help thicken the mixture.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the cream and cheese mixture. Add the remaining ingredients except the breadcrumbs and mix thoroughly but gently to avoid tearing the noodles.

Place the mixture into an oiled oven-safe baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 45 minutes uncovered or until the pasta is golden brown.

Tips and Variations

• The tubular varieties of pasta work best as they are well-suited to hold the cheese sauce.
• The addition of ginger adds a light "zip" to the dish, enhancing the overall flavour without overwhelming younger eaters.
• If you prefer a stronger ginger taste, you can increase the amount of ginger used or use a spicier variety.
• You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as a nutty Gruyere or a bold, sharp cheddar, to create your own unique flavour profile.
• To make it even more indulgent, try adding some chopped and fried bacon to the mixture before baking.
• For a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking.

Pairing Suggestions

• A glass of chilled sweet Muscat or Alsatian Gewürztraminer can complement the sweet and savoury notes of the dish.
• For a non-alcoholic option, ginger tea, especially a sweeter, blended variety, can balance the saltiness of the cheese.

Ginger spice cheddar cheese with Muscat wine

Ginger spice cheddar cheese is a unique and delectable dessert cheese. It combines rich, creamy cheddar with the finest crystallised ginger, resulting in a sweet and slightly spicy flavour. The deep orange wax coating makes it a visually appealing and distinctive addition to any cheeseboard.

When it comes to wine pairings, a chilled glass of sweet Muscat is the perfect choice to accompany ginger spice cheddar cheese. Muscat wines, known for their association with sweetness, offer a range of flavours beyond this simple description. They can be sweet, dry, still, or sparkling, with nuances of floral and spicy notes. The complexity of Muscat wines enhances the flavour profile of the ginger spice cheddar cheese, creating a delightful sensory experience.

The wine's exuberant fruity, floral, and spicy characteristics beautifully complement the cheese. The tropical, peach, nectarine, and apricot notes in the wine blend harmoniously with the crystallised ginger in the cheese. Additionally, the cooler serving temperature of Muscat amplifies the acidity, providing a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cheese.

The pairing of ginger spice cheddar cheese with Muscat wine is a delightful fusion of flavours. The cheese's creamy texture and ginger notes are accentuated by the wine's sweetness and subtle spiciness. The result is a taste sensation that delights the palate and satisfies the senses.

In summary, the combination of ginger spice cheddar cheese and Muscat wine is a delightful treat for cheese and wine enthusiasts alike. The cheese's unique flavour and visual appeal, complemented by the wine's complexity and refreshing qualities, make it a perfect pairing to savour and enjoy.

Ginger spice cheddar cheese with mango chutney

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Create the perfect grilled cheese sandwich by combining melted ginger spice cheddar, sweet mango chutney, and salty ham between two slices of country bread. Grill the sandwich until it is crisp and golden brown, resulting in a heavenly blend of flavours and textures.

Toasted Cheese Sandwich

Mango chutney with ginger is a classic accompaniment to a toasted cheese sandwich. The sticky sweetness of the chutney oozing out of a toasted sandwich filled with gooey ginger spice cheddar is a magnificent treat.

Cheese Platter

Macaroni and Cheese

For a unique twist on a classic family favourite, try adding ginger to your macaroni and cheese. The light "zip" of ginger enhances the creaminess of the cheese sauce without overwhelming younger palates. Combine this with some bacon, breadcrumbs, and your choice of pasta for a delicious and comforting meal.

Appetizers and Dips

Mango chutney with ginger is a versatile condiment that can be used as a dip for appetizers or paired with various cheeses on a charcuterie board. It goes exceptionally well with brie, cream cheese, and other mild or nutty cheeses. The combination of sweet and spicy notes in the chutney creates a delightful contrast that will elevate any cheese-based appetizer.

These suggestions only scratch the surface of the possibilities when pairing ginger spice cheddar cheese with mango chutney. Whether served as a main course, appetizer, or snack, this combination is sure to impress and satisfy.

Ginger spice cheddar cheese with sage

Cheese Board

Create a stunning cheese board featuring ginger spice cheddar cheese as the star attraction. The deep orange wax coating of the cheese will make it a visually appealing centrepiece. Complement the cheese with fresh sage leaves, adding a touch of greenery to the board. The sage will also provide a fragrant contrast to the sweet and spicy notes of the cheese. Serve with crackers or bread, and perhaps a glass of chilled sweet Muscat or Alsatian Gewürztraminer to enhance the flavours.

Savoury Dishes

Baked Goods

For a more indulgent treat, consider incorporating ginger spice cheddar cheese with sage into baked goods. Create savoury scones or biscuits by mixing shredded cheese into your dough, along with chopped sage and other herbs. You can also experiment with savoury quick breads or muffins, adding the cheese and sage to the batter for a unique flavour profile. These baked goods can be served as a side or enjoyed as a snack on their own.

Salads and Appetizers

Add a twist to your salads or appetizers by incorporating ginger spice cheddar cheese with sage. Create a warm potato salad by tossing cubed potatoes with melted ginger spice cheddar cheese, fresh sage, and a tangy vinaigrette. Or, make a grown-up grilled cheese by pairing the cheese with sage-infused honey and serving it as a tasty appetiser. The combination of sweet, spicy, and herbal notes will delight your taste buds.

Soufflés and Casseroles

Frequently asked questions