Herbs That Perfectly Complement Cheddar Cheese's Sharpness

Herbs and cheese are a classic combination, enjoyed by cultures around the world. The right herb can give cheese a flavour boost, enhancing the overall taste. When it comes to cheddar cheese, a common and delicious cheese in American cuisine, the sharp, sweet and nutty notes are best complemented by earthy herbs such as sage, thyme, oregano and basil.

Sage and cheddar cheese

Sage is a herb that is often used in cooking, and it goes particularly well with cheddar cheese. The two ingredients can be combined in a variety of dishes, such as biscuits, pastries, and sauces, to create a delicious and savoury flavour profile.

History of Herbs and Cheese

The combination of herbs and cheese is a timeless pairing that has been enjoyed by cultures worldwide. The practice of adding herbs to cheese began in the 1800s, enhancing the flavours of the cheese and adding health benefits. Since then, the demand for cheese has only increased, with global cheese production reaching about 21.86 million metric tons last year.

Sage and Cheddar Biscuits

A popular way to combine sage and cheddar cheese is by making savoury biscuits. These biscuits typically include ingredients such as flour, baking powder, salt, butter, buttermilk, and of course, cheddar cheese and sage. The key to achieving flaky and tender biscuits is to keep the refrigerated ingredients as cold as possible. The cold butter creates layers of flaky dough as it melts during baking. Additionally, the buttermilk not only adds a delicious tang to the biscuits but also helps them rise.

Other Herb Recommendations for Cheddar Cheese

While sage is an excellent herb to pair with cheddar cheese, there are also other herbs that can complement its sharp and savoury flavour. These include:

• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Garlic
• Chives

Recipe Ideas with Sage and Cheddar Cheese

• Gnocchi with a brown butter sage sauce and chunks of cheddar cheese
• Pastries filled with sage and cheddar cheese
• Savoury biscuits with sage and cheddar cheese, as mentioned earlier
• A cheese sauce made with sage and cheddar cheese, perfect for pasta dishes

Thyme, oregano, and basil with cheddar

Thyme, oregano, and basil are a wonderful trio of herbs that, when combined with cheddar, create a delicious and creamy flavour profile. This combination is reminiscent of al fresco dining and the earthy sweetness of a Mediterranean herb garden. The subtle, delicate aroma of garlic, often used alongside these herbs, adds to the mildness of the cheese while still delivering a wonderful aroma and taste.

Thyme, a versatile herb, is known for its gentle earthiness and subtle citrus notes. When paired with cheddar, it can create a beautiful contrast, especially with sharper varieties. For example, consider an Alpine Cheddar, which has Swiss-inspired flavours. Top an apple slice with this variety of cheddar, chopped thyme, and a drizzle of honey for a sweet and savoury snack.

Oregano, on the other hand, brings pungent aromatics and slight bitterness to the mix. This herb pairs well with the creamy texture of cheddar, enhancing its flavour. Try marinating cubed cheddar cheese in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, crushed red pepper, and oregano. Serve this appetiser with crusty bread for a tasty treat.

Basil, the third herb in this combination, adds a touch of freshness and woodsy notes. While it is famously paired with mozzarella, basil also complements cheddar beautifully. The combination of basil and cheddar can be a delightful addition to baked goods or even a refreshing summer snack when served chilled.

When using thyme, oregano, and basil with cheddar, consider experimenting with different varieties of cheddar to find your preferred flavour profile. Mature cheddars tend to have sharper, nuttier notes that can stand up to the robust flavours of these herbs. Play around with different combinations and preparation methods to discover new dimensions of flavour.

In conclusion, thyme, oregano, and basil create a delightful herbal trio when paired with cheddar cheese. The versatility of these herbs allows for a range of flavour profiles, from sweet and savoury to creamy and tangy. By experimenting with different cheddars and preparation methods, you can create unique and delectable dishes that showcase the beauty of this herbal and cheesy combination.

Alpine cheddar and thyme

For a sweet and savoury snack, top an apple slice with Alpine Cheddar, chopped thyme, and a drizzle of honey. You could also try adding breadcrumbs to the mix and baking it in the oven for a warm treat.

If you're looking for a more hearty meal, Alpine Cheddar and thyme can be combined in a mac and cheese. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Cook your pasta until al dente, drain it, and set it aside. Melt some salted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then add minced garlic and cook until it starts to soften and brown. Whisk in flour, then slowly add warm milk, whisking continuously. Add Alpine Cheddar, dried thyme, and dried oregano, stirring until the cheese melts and the herbs are combined. Mix the sauce with the pasta, transfer to a baking dish, and top with breadcrumbs. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

This combination of Alpine Cheddar and thyme highlights the versatility of these ingredients, showcasing how they can be used in snacks or main dishes to create delicious, satisfying meals.

Seriously Sharp cheddar and sage

The complexity and slight nuttiness of Seriously Sharp cheddar go very well with the savoury, pine-like flavours of sage. This combination can be used in a variety of dishes. For example, you could toss gnocchi with a brown butter sage sauce and chunks of Seriously Sharp Cheddar Cheese for a delicious weeknight dinner.

Sage is a versatile herb that has been used to enhance the flavour of cheese for centuries. It pairs particularly well with sharp cheddar varieties, such as Seriously Sharp, bringing out their sharpness and nuttiness without being overpowered by the strong flavour of the cheese.

When pairing herbs with hard cheeses like cheddar, it is important to choose something thick and flavourful. This will ensure that the herb doesn't get lost amidst the strong flavours of the cheese. Sage is a perfect choice for this, as it has a rich, earthy flavour that complements cheddar's sweet, nutty notes.

In addition to its flavour, sage also has a number of health benefits. It has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments, and it is known to be particularly good for digestive health. So, not only does sage taste great with cheddar, but it can also provide some additional health benefits.

If you're looking for a delicious and impressive main dish to serve to guests, Annie Somerville's Butternut Squash Gratin with Poblano Chilies, Cheddar, and Fromage Blanc Custard is a great option. This dish combines cheddar, sage, and a host of other ingredients to create a bubbling, flavourful masterpiece that's sure to wow your guests.

Horseradish cheddar and rosemary

One way to use this pairing is to top smashed, roasted red potatoes with grated horseradish cheddar cheese and chopped rosemary for a delicious side dish. You could also try a horseradish and rosemary cheddar on sourdough bread with scallions, garlic, thyme, and sesame seeds. Horseradish cheddar and rosemary can also be used in sauces, toppings, and fillings. For example, you could make a cheese sauce with rosemary and horseradish cheddar to pour over pasta.

Cheddar cheese pairs well with many herbs and spices, but it is particularly well suited to sage, which brings out the sharp nature of a mature cheddar. Other herbs that go well with cheddar include rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.

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