Herbs and cheese are a classic combination enjoyed by cultures worldwide. Adding herbs to cheese enhances its flavour and adding cheese to herbs brings out their flavour. There are many herbs that go well with cheese sauce, including chives, basil, parsley, tarragon, sage, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
What You'll Learn
Herbs and cheese are a classic combination
When pairing herbs and cheese, it's important to consider the flavor profiles of both ingredients. The key is to first identify the characteristics of your cheese—is it pungent, sharp, sweet, bold, or nutty? Once you've determined the cheese's profile, you can select an herb that will complement or contrast it. For example, strong and pungent blue cheese pairs well with the acidity of chervil or sorrel, while the creamy flavor of brie is enhanced by the addition of thyme, chives, basil, or tarragon.
In a cheese sauce, herbs add a subtle aroma and earthiness that elevate the dish. Chervil, a mild herb similar to parsley, is a popular choice for cheese sauces. Other herbs such as sage, oregano, and thyme can also be used to create unique flavor profiles. The volatile oils in the herbs infuse the sauce, adding a delicate layer of flavor to pasta dishes or other savory creations.
Herbs can be added to cheese sauces in a variety of ways. Fresh or dried herbs can be chopped and stirred directly into the sauce, while dried herbs can also be added to the binding process for a more subtle infusion. Experimenting with different combinations will allow you to discover the pairings that suit your palate best.
Not only do herbs enhance the flavor of cheese, but they also provide health benefits. Herbs like sage and rosemary, commonly used in cheese mixes, offer additional nutritional value. So, whether you're sprinkling herbs on a cheese-topped pie, stirring them into a sauce, or blending them into a filling, you're not just adding flavor—you're also boosting the nutritional content of your dish.
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Fresh herbs are ideal for pairing with cheese
When pairing herbs and cheese, it's important to consider the flavour profile of each. For example, a pungent Blue Cheese goes well with strong herbs like parsley, sage, or garlic. On the other hand, a creamy Brie pairs beautifully with more delicate herbs like thyme, chives, basil, and tarragon.
Cheddar cheese, a staple in American cuisine, is perfectly complemented by sage. The earthy herb enhances the nuttiness of the cheddar, especially when paired with a mature cheddar. Another classic combination is mozzarella and basil, a match made in heaven that forms the basis of a caprese salad.
Not only do fresh herbs elevate the flavour of cheese, but they also add a decorative touch to your dish. Sprinkle some chives or parsley on top of a cheese-topped pie or a grazing board for a pop of colour and a boost of flavour.
So, the next time you're looking to elevate your cheese-based dishes, reach for some fresh herbs. Experiment with different combinations and discover your favourite pairings. Remember, fresh herbs are the key to taking your cheese game to the next level!
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Herbs can be added to cheese sauces
For instance, blue cheese pairs well with pungent herbs like parsley, sage, or garlic. On the other hand, brie, a creamy and mild-flavoured cheese, is best complemented by thyme, chives, basil, and tarragon.
Cheddar, a nutty and sharp cheese, is beautifully partnered with sage. This combination is especially delightful when paired with a brown butter sage sauce and chunks of cheddar cheese for a delicious weeknight dinner.
If you're looking for a more pungent herb, garlic can be a perfect match for certain cheeses. For example, the strong, pungent flavours of roasted garlic complement the creamy texture of Lite50 Sharp Cheddar.
Monterey Jack, a creamy and mild cheese, is another excellent base for herbs. Its flavour can be enhanced by the slightly bitter and herbaceous taste of dill, or the distinct flavour of oregano.
In addition to these classic combinations, you can also experiment with different herbs and cheeses to find pairings that suit your palate. For example, you can try adding chives to brie or rosemary to mozzarella for a unique twist.
Cheese sauces with herbs are incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes, from pasta to grilled cheese sandwiches, casseroles, and baked goods. So, feel free to get creative and explore the endless possibilities that herbs and cheese sauces have to offer!
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Herbs can be added to cheese during the binding process
Today, there are many types of cheeses that pair well with herbs. Blue cheese, for example, goes well with pungent herbs like parsley, sage, or garlic. On the other hand, milder cheeses like brie and ricotta pair well with softer herbs like basil, tarragon, and chives.
For those who enjoy a sharp, nutty cheddar, sage is a perfect pairing, bringing out the sharp notes of the cheese. If you're looking for a more pungent herb, rosemary can also be a great addition to cheddar cheese.
Goat's cheese and feta, with their distinct and briny flavours, are complemented by the fresh and fragrant notes of dill. Similarly, Monterey Jack, a creamy and mild cheese, is enhanced by the slightly bitter and herbaceous flavour of dill.
When creating a cheese sauce, herbs can be added to enhance the flavour. Chervil, for instance, is a mild herb that goes well with mozzarella in a cheese sauce. Other herbs that can be added to cheese sauces include oregano, thyme, and basil.
In summary, adding herbs to cheese during the binding process or when making a sauce can create delicious and flavourful combinations. Experimenting with different herbs and cheeses can lead to unique and tasty creations.
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Herbs and cheese can be used as toppings
When choosing herbs to pair with cheese, consider the flavour profile of the cheese. For example, pungent blue cheese pairs well with strong herbs like parsley, sage, or garlic. On the other hand, creamy cheeses like brie and goat cheese go well with lighter, fragrant herbs such as basil, tarragon, and dill.
For a classic combination, look no further than mozzarella and basil. This iconic pairing is a staple in caprese salad and can be used to top pizzas or stuffed mushrooms. If you're looking for something different, try rosemary with mozzarella or chives with brie.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of herbs and cheeses. Start with mild pairings and work your way up to stronger flavours. You might be surprised by the delicious combinations you discover!
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Frequently asked questions
Herbs that go with cheese sauce include chives, basil, parsley, tarragon, sage, oregano, thyme, and chervil.
Blue cheese goes well with acidic herbs like chives, sorrel, or parsley.
Sage is a great herb to pair with cheddar cheese, especially sharp cheddar.