Frederic Melton
Grapes and cheese are a classic combination, but which type of cheese is best? The sweetness of fruit and saltiness of cheese are the main reasons they pair well together. The crispness of apples, for example, complements the sharpness of cheddar cheese. But what about grapes? Well, sweet and juicy grapes pair beautifully with the creamy and slightly tangy flavour of brie cheese. Edam, a close cousin to gouda, is another good option as it has a mild, buttery flavour and a slightly firmer texture.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese that pairs well with grapes | Edam, aged cheddar, brie |
| Cheese that does not pair well with grapes | Blue cheese, manchego |
| Other fruits that pair well with cheese | Figs, dates, apples, melons, pears |
| Other foods that pair well with cheese | Dried fruit, fruit spreads, quince paste, fig jam, peach or apricot preserves, honey, dessert wines |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Edam and red grapes
Edam is a mild, buttery cheese with a slightly nutty flavour and a firm texture. It is a close cousin of Gouda, but has a slightly firmer texture. It pairs well with sweet or tart fruit, especially red grapes. The sweetness of the fruit and the saltiness of the cheese complement each other, creating a delightful combination of flavours and textures.
When serving Edam and red grapes, consider the following tips:
- Cut the cheese into thin slices or cubes to allow the flavours to blend.
- Wash and dry the grapes to remove any residue.
- Arrange the cheese and grapes on a platter, alternating between the two to create a visually appealing display.
- Add some fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to enhance the flavours.
- Serve the cheese and grapes at room temperature to allow the flavours to fully develop.
Lasagna Cheese Pairings: Ricotta's Perfect Partners
You may want to see also
Aged cheddar and grapes
Grapes are a versatile fruit that can be paired with many different types of cheese. While some sources suggest that grapes are best paired with creamy cheeses such as brie, others suggest that grapes pair well with harder, saltier cheeses such as aged cheddars. The saltiness of the cheese and the sweetness of the grapes complement each other, creating a delightful contrast of flavours and textures.
Aged cheddar is a hard, rich cheese with a sharp flavour. When paired with grapes, the sharpness of the cheese is offset by the sweetness of the fruit, creating a well-balanced combination. The crispness of the grapes also provides a refreshing contrast to the dense, creamy texture of the cheese.
When choosing grapes to pair with aged cheddar, consider the variety of grape as well as its ripeness. Red grapes, with their slightly sweeter taste, can enhance the contrast between the sweet and salty flavours. On the other hand, green grapes have a more subtle sweetness and can create a more harmonious pairing. Regardless of the variety, it is important to select ripe grapes that are plump and juicy, as this will ensure the best flavour and texture.
In addition to the type of grape, the way they are prepared can also enhance the pairing. For a simple yet elegant presentation, serve whole grapes alongside slices or cubes of aged cheddar. Alternatively, try threading grapes and cheese onto skewers, creating a visually appealing and easy-to-eat snack. Another option is to incorporate grapes and aged cheddar into a dish, such as a salad or a cheese platter, where the grapes can provide a sweet contrast to the other ingredients.
When pairing aged cheddar and grapes, consider the other elements of the dish as well. The sweetness of the grapes can be further emphasised by pairing them with nuts, crackers, or breads that have a savoury or salty flavour profile. Additionally, the combination of aged cheddar and grapes can be enhanced by serving them with a dessert wine, as the sweetness of the wine will complement the flavours of the cheese and fruit.
Gournay Cheese: A French Delight Explained
You may want to see also
Brie and grapes
Sweet and juicy grapes pair beautifully with the creamy and slightly tangy flavour of brie cheese. The sweetness of fruit and saltiness of cheese are the main reasons they pair well together. This sweet and salty contrast is also why cheese pairs well with dessert wines, honey and fruit spreads.
Brie is a soft, creamy cheese with a tangy flavour. It is made from cow's milk and has a white rind. The cheese is named after the French region of Brie, where it originated. It is now produced all over the world and is a popular choice for cheese boards and snacks.
Grapes are a sweet and juicy fruit that grows in clusters. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals and have a high water content, which makes them refreshing. They are typically green, red or black and can be eaten fresh or dried.
When pairing brie and grapes, it is best to choose ripe, sweet grapes. The sweetness of the grapes will balance the tanginess of the brie, creating a harmonious flavour combination. The creamy texture of the brie will also complement the juicy texture of the grapes.
To serve brie and grapes, you can simply place the cheese on a plate or board and arrange the grapes around it. You could also add some crackers, bread, or other fruits such as apples or pears. This combination makes a great snack or appetiser and is sure to impress your guests.
Imo's Pizza: What's the Cheese Pull?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Munster and grapes
Grapes are a popular fruit to pair with cheese, with their sweetness contrasting with the saltiness of cheese. While some cheeses are better suited to other fruits, grapes are versatile and can be paired with a wide range of cheeses.
Munster is a mild cheese that mellows with age. Its orange rind is edible and the cheese itself is near-white. Grapes and sweet apples are the best fruits to pair with Munster. The sweetness of the grapes will complement the mild flavour of the cheese.
When serving grapes with Munster, it is best to choose sweet and juicy grapes. The crispness of the grapes will contrast with the softness of the cheese. You could also try pairing Munster with dried grapes, such as raisins or sultanas, as dried fruit is often sweeter than fresh fruit.
If you are serving a cheese platter, you could include other fruits that pair well with Munster, such as apples, pears, or apricots. You could also include other cheeses that pair well with grapes, such as Brie, or aged cheddars.
Cheese and Potato Soup: The Perfect Melty Combination
You may want to see also
Other fruits that pair well with grapes
While grapes are a popular choice to pair with cheese, there are many other fruits that can be used instead. Apples are a classic choice, with their crispness complementing the sharpness of cheddar cheese. Pears are also a good option, as their sweet and slightly grainy texture contrasts nicely with pungent and creamy Gorgonzola cheese. Apricots, meanwhile, have a sweetness and delicate flavour that is enhanced by the creamy and tangy taste of goat cheese. Figs, dates, melons, and peaches are other fruits that can be paired with cheese. Dried fruit is often a safer bet when pairing with cheese, as it is often sweeter than fresh fruit and there are no concerns about ripeness or seasonality.
Cheese Pierogi: The Ultimate Guide to Filling Your Dumplings
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Brie, Edam, Munster and aged cheddar are all good matches for grapes.
Red grapes are a good choice, but any sweet or juicy grapes will work well.
Salami, nuts, dried fruit, fruit spreads and dessert wines are all good options.
The sweetness of the fruit and the saltiness of the cheese create a nice contrast.
