Frederic Melton
Beemster Extra Aged (X-O) cheese is a rich Dutch cheese with a firm, crumbly texture and a unique flavour profile. It is aged for 26 months, during which it develops long-lasting flavours of butterscotch, whiskey, and pecan, with subtle hints of caramel. To complement the cheese's unique flavour, it is recommended to serve it with fig cake, spicy honey, olives, or roasted nuts. In this paragraph, we will explore the perfect jam to serve with Beemster Extra Aged cheese to elevate the tasting experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Cheese | Beemster Extra Aged (X-O) or Beemster XO Gouda |
| Flavors | Butterscotch, whiskey, pecan, and caramel |
| Texture | Crumbly and firm |
| Crystals | Crunchy |
| Pairing | Fig cake, spicy honey, olives, roasted nuts, grapes, crackers, salami, and fruit-nut bread |
| Wine | Dry red and white wines, dessert wines, dark beer, and cider |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Fig jam complements the cheese's sweetness
Beemster cheese is made in the Beemster Polder, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in North Holland. The region's slate-blue clay soil contains high levels of nutrients and minerals, making its grasses ideal for grazing animals. The milk from Beemster cows and goats is sweeter, richer, and creamier, resulting in an award-winning cheese with a unique flavour profile.
Beemster Extra Aged (X-O) cheese is an exceptionally rich Dutch cheese made from pasteurized cow's milk. It is aged for at least 26 months, during which it develops long-lasting flavours of butterscotch, whiskey, and pecan, with subtle hints of caramel. Its interior boasts a deep ocher colour and a crumbly, firm texture.
When it comes to pairing this extraordinary cheese with jam, fig jam is an excellent choice. The sweetness of the fig jam beautifully complements the sweet and nutty flavours of the Beemster Extra Aged cheese. The jam's fruity notes also help to enhance the subtle hints of caramel in the cheese.
In addition to its flavour profile, the texture of fig jam plays a role in the pairing. The smooth consistency of the jam provides a delightful contrast to the crumbly texture of the cheese. This contrast in textures creates a pleasant sensory experience, making the pairing even more enjoyable.
When creating a cheese board featuring Beemster Extra Aged cheese and fig jam, consider adding other complementary items. Fresh figs, walnuts, and artisan salami can enhance the flavours of both the cheese and jam. Additionally, crackers, grapes, and other types of nuts can round out the cheese board, offering a variety of textures and flavours for your guests to enjoy.
The Perfect Cheese Ball: Serving Tips and Tricks
You may want to see also
Fig jam's sweetness balances the cheese's saltiness
Beemster Extra Aged (X-O) cheese is a rich Dutch cheese with a firm, crumbly texture and a long-lasting flavour profile. It is aged for at least 26 months, during which it develops notes of butterscotch, whiskey, pecan and hints of caramel. The cheese also boasts a deep ocher colour and is studded with crunchy crystals, adding a mild saltiness and a touch of sweetness.
To balance the cheese's saltiness and sweetness, fig jam is an ideal accompaniment. The sweetness of the fig jam complements the savoury, salty notes of the cheese. The jam's smooth texture also provides a delightful contrast to the cheese's firm, crumbly mouthfeel.
Fig jam is a versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of ways when serving Beemster Extra Aged cheese. For a classic pairing, a small spoonful of fig jam can be enjoyed alongside a slice of the cheese, allowing the flavours to meld together on the palate. The jam can also be spread on crackers or bread, with the cheese placed on top, creating a delicious and elegant bite.
When creating a cheese board featuring Beemster Extra Aged, consider including a variety of textures and flavours to enhance the overall tasting experience. In addition to the fig jam, items such as fresh and dried fruits, crackers, nuts, and honey can be offered. These accompaniments not only provide a visual appeal but also contribute to a well-rounded and balanced flavour profile.
The sweetness of the fig jam helps to temper the cheese's saltiness, creating a harmonious pairing that delights the senses. This combination showcases the versatility of Beemster Extra Aged cheese and elevates the tasting experience, making it a memorable and indulgent treat for cheese enthusiasts.
The Perfect Pierogi: Serving Cheese Delicacy
You may want to see also
The cheese's nutty notes are enhanced by fig jam
Beemster Extra Aged (X-O) cheese is a rich Dutch cheese made from pasteurised cow's milk. It is aged for at least 26 months, during which time it develops long-lasting flavours of butterscotch, whiskey, and pecan, with subtle hints of caramel. Its texture is firm and crumbly, and it is studded with crunchy, mouthwatering crystals.
When it comes to enhancing the nutty notes of this cheese, fig jam is an excellent choice. The natural sweetness of the fig jam complements the rich, buttery, and nutty flavours of the Beemster Extra Aged cheese. The jam can be served alongside the cheese on a cheeseboard, or it can be used as a topping for crackers or bread.
In addition to fig jam, there are other accompaniments that can further enhance the nutty notes of the cheese. Fresh or dried fruits such as figs, grapes, apples, and apricots can be paired with the cheese, offering a contrast of sweetness and freshness. Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans can also be served alongside the cheese, emphasising its nutty characteristics.
For a more savoury option, cured meats such as salami, ham, or prosciutto can be paired with the Beemster Extra Aged cheese and fig jam. The saltiness of the meats will balance the sweetness of the jam and emphasise the savoury notes of the cheese. Additionally, crackers or bread can provide a neutral base for the flavours, allowing the nutty notes of the cheese to shine through.
When creating a cheeseboard with Beemster Extra Aged cheese and fig jam, it is important to consider the temperature and presentation of the cheese. The cheese should be removed from the fridge and allowed to come to room temperature before serving. This ensures optimal flavour and texture. The cheese can be arranged on a board with the fig jam and other accompaniments, offering a variety of flavours and textures for guests to enjoy.
Cheese Squares: How Many Make a Serving?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Fig jam's texture pairs well with the cheese's firmness
Beemster Extra Aged (X-O) cheese is a rich Dutch cheese with a firm, crumbly texture. It is aged for at least 26 months, during which it develops long-lasting flavours of butterscotch, whiskey, and pecan, with subtle hints of caramel. The cheese has a deep ocher interior and is studded with crunchy, mouthwatering crystals, adding a touch of sweetness.
When it comes to pairing this cheese with jam, fig jams are an excellent choice. The sweetness of the fig jam beautifully complements the firm texture of the cheese. The smooth, buttery consistency of the jam provides a delightful contrast to the crumbly cheese, creating a harmonious pairing that delights the palate.
Fig jams, with their soft and spreadable texture, offer a pleasant contrast to the firmness of the Beemster Extra Aged cheese. The jam's sweetness also helps to balance the savoury notes of the cheese, enhancing the overall flavour profile of the pairing.
The combination of the jam's sweetness and the cheese's firmness creates a sensory experience that is both satisfying and indulgent. The jam's smooth texture melts into the cheese, accentuating its richness and depth of flavour.
Additionally, the natural sweetness of fig jams can range from mild to intense, allowing for versatile pairing options with Beemster Extra Aged cheese. The intensity of the jam can be selected to either complement or contrast the cheese's savoury notes, creating a dynamic and intriguing flavour profile.
Cheese Blintzes: Dessert or Main Entree?
You may want to see also
Fig jam's flavour profile matches the cheese's complexity
Beemster cheese is a Gouda-style cheese made from rich, North Holland cow's milk. It is known for its creamy and sweet flavour profile, with notes of nuts and butter. The Beemster Classic, for example, is aged for eighteen months to enhance its nutty and butter-rich flavour.
Fig jam, with its unique flavour and texture, is a perfect match for Beemster cheese. The sweetness of the fig jam complements the creaminess of the cheese, while its subtle savoury notes add depth and complexity to the pairing.
Fig jam is typically made with just figs, sugar, and lemon juice. This simple combination creates a delightful sweetness that is enhanced by the natural sugars found in figs. The lemon juice adds a subtle tanginess that brightens the flavour of the jam.
When paired with Beemster cheese, the sweetness of the fig jam accentuates the creaminess of the cheese, creating a harmonious flavour combination. The savoury notes in the fig jam, enhanced by the lemon juice, also complement the nutty and buttery flavours of the Beemster.
Additionally, the texture of the fig jam is an important factor in the pairing. The jam has a thick and spreadable consistency, which allows it to coat the cheese and create a balanced bite. The smooth, dense texture of the Beemster cheese provides a beautiful contrast to the jam, resulting in a complex and satisfying sensory experience.
The FDA and Cheese: Is Pasteurization Mandatory?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
You should serve fig jam with Beemster Extra Aged Cheese.
Beemster Extra Aged Cheese, also known as Beemster XO or XO Gouda, is a rich Dutch cheese made from pasteurized cow's milk.
Beemster Extra Aged Cheese has a rich flavour profile with notes of butterscotch, whiskey, pecan, and caramel.
Besides jam, you can serve Beemster Extra Aged Cheese with fig cake, spicy honey, olives, or roasted nuts.
Beemster Extra Aged Cheese pairs well with dry red and white wines, as well as most dessert wines.
