Randy Chandler
Goat cheese is a popular ingredient in the culinary world, known for its creamy texture and tangy, earthy flavour. It is produced using goat's milk, which has a lower lactose content than cow's milk, making it a good option for those who are lactose intolerant. While goat cheese is versatile and widely used, some may dislike its distinct taste or seek alternatives for other reasons. Several cheese varieties can be used as substitutes for goat cheese, depending on the desired flavour and texture. Feta, cotija, mascarpone, cream cheese, and blue cheese are some of the closest alternatives to goat cheese in terms of taste, texture, or both.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main Ingredient | Goat's Milk |
| Texture | Creamy, Soft, Spreadable, Tangy, Moist, Crumbly, Buttery, Flaky, Pungent, Salty, Acidic, Sweet, Light, Fresh, Intense, Aged, Hard |
| Flavor | Distinct, Tangy, Tart, Earthy, Deep, Robust, Intense, Delicate, Pungent, Salty, Sweet, Light, Fresh, Mild, Delicate, Funky |
| Color | Whiter than Cow's Milk Cheese |
| Nutrition | Healthy Fats, Proteins, Minerals, Vitamins, Capric Acid, Probiotics, Lower Lactose, Lower Carbohydrates, Higher Vitamin A, Animal Protein, Phosphorus, Calcium |
| Similar Cheeses | Feta, Cotija, Blue Cheese, Cream Cheese, Mascarpone, Cambazola, Labneh, Ricotta, Greek Yogurt |
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What You'll Learn
Feta cheese
Feta is a versatile cheese used in various dishes, including salads, sandwiches, omelettes, pastries, and Mediterranean dishes. It is often served with olive oil or olives and sprinkled with aromatic herbs such as oregano. Feta can be grilled or cooked and is a good source of calcium, vitamin B12, and riboflavin. It also contains beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut microbiome and improve digestion.
The process of making feta cheese involves cutting the curds into small cubes and slowly stirring to release the whey. The curds are then allowed to settle, drained, and placed in brine for several weeks to age and develop flavour. The firmness of the cheese depends on the stirring time in whey, and the longer the cheese is stirred, the richer and firmer it becomes.
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Cream cheese with Greek yoghurt
Greek yoghurt cream cheese has a delightful tang and texture that is reminiscent of goat cheese. It can be used in a variety of ways, just like regular cream cheese. It can be spread on bagels, used as a dip for vegetables or crackers, or incorporated into recipes for baked goods, dips, or desserts. It is also a good source of protein and gut-friendly probiotics.
Greek yoghurt cream cheese can be used as a substitute for goat's cheese in recipes such as salads, dips, toppings, and spreads. It can also be used as a healthy alternative to cream cheese in baked goods, such as cream cheese frosting for carrot cupcakes.
In terms of nutritional value, Greek yoghurt cream cheese is a good source of protein and has a lower fat content than regular cream cheese. It is also a good option for those who are lactose intolerant, as Greek yoghurt has a lower lactose content than other types of yoghurt.
Overall, cream cheese with Greek yoghurt is a delicious and versatile substitute for goat's cheese that can be easily made at home.
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Mascarpone
However, it's important to note that mascarpone is not as tangy as goat's cheese, and it is richer and more decadent. In dishes where the sharp, tangy flavour of goat's cheese is crucial, mascarpone may not be the best substitute. Other good substitutes for goat's cheese include feta, cotija, and cambazola, depending on the recipe and the desired texture and flavour profile.
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Cambazola
While there are several alternatives to goat's cheese, Cambazola is a great substitute for goat cheese in several recipes. Cambazola is a blue cheese that is rind-ripened like Brie or Camembert, making it softer and creamier than goat cheese. However, it is one of the mildest blue cheeses available, so it is an excellent option for those who find other blue cheeses too overwhelming. It brings a hint of complexity and funkiness to recipes that call for goat cheese, such as meat or poultry-based dishes, pasta, casseroles, sauces, and dips. It is also a good substitute for goat cheese on a cheese plate, paired with nuts and fresh or dried fruit.
Goat's cheese, or chèvre, is a popular ingredient known for its distinctive earthy, tangy, and tart flavour, creamy texture, and versatile nature. It is produced in many countries, including France, Italy, Belgium, and Norway, and offers nutritional benefits such as healthy fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. Its low lactose content also makes it a more digestible option for those who are lactose intolerant.
However, there may be times when a substitute for goat's cheese is preferred due to its distinct flavour or lack of availability. In addition to Cambazola, other alternatives to goat's cheese include mascarpone, feta, and cotija. Mascarpone is an Italian soft cheese with a creamy texture and a mild flavour, making it a good option for those who find the "goatiness" of goat's cheese too strong. Feta and cotija cheeses are used similarly to goat's cheese in Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines, respectively, and are drier and saltier, making them easier to crumble.
When choosing a substitute for goat's cheese, it is important to consider the specific recipe and the desired flavour and texture. For example, some alternatives may be better suited for uncooked dishes like salads, dips, toppings, and spreads, while others may be more suitable for cooked dishes. Additionally, some substitutes may be preferred for their milder flavour, while others may be chosen for their sharpness and kick.
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Labneh
To make labneh, you will need Greek, whole milk yoghurt and salt. Mix them together in a small bowl, and then scrape the mixture into a layer of cheesecloth. Bring the edges of the cheesecloth together and knot them around a wooden spoon. Place the spoon across the top of a deep bowl so that the labneh hangs in the centre without touching the bottom of the bowl. Leave it to chill overnight or for 24 hours. The longer you strain the yoghurt, the thicker your labneh will be.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no single cheese that is the closest alternative to goat cheese, but there are several substitutes that can be used depending on the recipe. Some common alternatives include feta, cotija, mascarpone, cream cheese, and blue cheese.
Feta cheese is a great substitute for goat cheese in salads. It has a similar taste and texture to goat cheese and is used similarly in Mediterranean dishes.
Mascarpone, cream cheese, and labneh are good substitutes for dips and spreads. Mascarpone is a rich and creamy Italian soft cheese with a finer texture and a milder flavor than goat cheese.
Ricotta cheese is a good substitute for baked goods as it has a low-fat content and a mild taste.
Cambazola, a type of blue cheese, is a good substitute for meat or poultry-based dishes, as it is softer and creamier than goat cheese.
