Randy Chandler
Marinated goat cheese is a versatile dish that can be used as an appetizer, in salads, or as part of a sandwich. The process of marination infuses the cheese with immense flavor, and the best part is that it's incredibly easy to make. You can experiment with various herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or chili, and choose from a wide range of oils to create your own unique flavor combinations. Whether served with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh fruits, marinated goat cheese is sure to impress and can be prepared well in advance, making it a convenient and tasty option for any gathering.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preparation time | 5 minutes |
| Ideal for | Appetizer |
| Main ingredients | Goat cheese, olive oil, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, crackers, toasted baguette slices |
| Other ingredients | Basil, chervil, chives, fennel seeds, garlic, lemon zest, mint, scallions, parsley, rosemary, sage, tarragon, honey, chopped nuts, olives, dried apricots or cherries |
| Preservation | Can be preserved in the fridge for up to a week |
| Presentation | Use dental floss or a cheese wire for clean slices |
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What You'll Learn
Using herbs and spices to marinate goat cheese
Marinated goat cheese is a simple, delicious, and elegant appetizer that can be prepared in less than 30 minutes. It can be served with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh crusty bread. The creamy, tangy, and savory goat cheese can be marinated with a variety of herbs and spices to create a unique and flavorful dish. Here are some tips and ideas for using herbs and spices to marinate goat cheese:
Choosing the Right Goat Cheese
Start by selecting a good-quality fresh goat cheese, also known as chèvre. Chèvre has a creamy texture and a tangy, savory flavor that pairs well with a variety of herbs and spices.
Selecting Herbs and Spices
The beauty of marinated goat cheese is that you can use any combination of herbs and spices that you like. Fresh herbs, such as thyme, basil, chervil, chives, rosemary, sage, or tarragon, add a burst of flavor to the cheese. You can also use dried herbs like oregano or basil if you don't have access to fresh herbs. Spice blends like herbes de Provence, za'atar, or dukkah can also be used to add a unique twist.
Preparing the Marinade
Extra-virgin olive oil is the preferred choice for marinating goat cheese. Choose a good-quality oil with a pleasant flavor, as it will infuse into the cheese. Layer the cheese with olive oil and your chosen herbs and spices. You can also add other ingredients like chopped nuts, a drizzle of honey, chopped olives, or dried fruit for a touch of sweetness.
Marinating the Goat Cheese
There are different ways to marinate the goat cheese. You can gently break the goat cheese into large pieces and layer them with the marinade in a container or serving dish. Another method is to roll the cheese into balls or slice the log into rounds before marinating. Let the flavors meld for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Bring the marinated cheese to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Marinated goat cheese can be served in a variety of ways. Spread it on toasted baguette slices, crackers, or warm crusty bread. You can also crumble it over salads or use it in sandwiches. Get creative and experiment with different combinations of herbs, spices, and accompaniments to find your favorite flavor profile.
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How to cut goat cheese neatly
Marinated goat cheese is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer. The creamy, tangy, and savory flavor of goat cheese (or chèvre) pairs well with a variety of herbs and spices, making it a versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste preferences. While marinated goat cheese is simple to prepare, neatly cutting the cheese can be a bit tricky due to its soft and creamy texture. Here are some detailed instructions on how to cut goat cheese neatly:
Choosing the Right Tools:
The key to neatly cutting goat cheese is to use the right tools. While a traditional knife with a curved tip and a twin-forked end is commonly used for cutting cheese, it can be challenging to achieve clean slices with this method. Here are some alternative tools that can help you cut goat cheese more neatly:
- Dental Floss or Cheese Wire: Unflavored dental floss or a cheese wire can provide a clean and precise cut. Wrap the floss around your fingers, hold it taut, and pull it downward through the cheese. This technique helps prevent the cheese from crumbling.
- Mandolin Slicer or Handheld Cheese Slicer: These tools are designed for slicing cheese and can help you achieve uniform slices.
- Cheese Harp: A cheese harp is a less well-known tool but is especially popular with fans of goat cheese logs. It is fitted with a cheese-cutting wire that allows you to make thin and precise cuts.
Preparing the Cheese:
Before you start cutting, there are a few things to keep in mind when preparing the goat cheese:
- Temperature: It is recommended to take the goat cheese out of the refrigerator about an hour before serving. This will soften the cheese slightly and make it easier to cut.
- Shape: Consider the shape of the cheese when deciding how to cut it. Round cheeses should be cut like a cake, working from the center outward to create triangular wedges. Long cheeses should be cut into round slices, and pyramids should be cut into thin triangular portions from the center down through the height of the cheese.
- Aromas and Flavors: Correctly cutting the cheese can help preserve the aromas and flavors. Cut the cheese into equal parts from the center to the edge to ensure that each portion has a balanced distribution of flavors and textures.
Cutting the Cheese:
When you're ready to cut the goat cheese, here are some tips for a neat and precise cut:
- Use a Sawing Motion: If you're using a knife, especially a serrated knife, use a gentle sawing motion to cut through the cheese slowly and carefully.
- Avoid Using Your Fingers: Try to avoid touching the cheese block with your fingers or knuckles while cutting. This can result in uneven slices and a messy presentation.
- Stand the Cheese Block on Edge: If you're cutting a block of goat cheese, try standing it on its edge to reduce sticking and achieve cleaner cuts.
- Use a Separate Knife for Each Flavor: If you're cutting multiple types of goat cheese with distinct flavors, it's best to use a separate knife for each flavor to avoid mixing the flavors on your cheese board.
By following these tips and techniques, you'll be able to neatly cut goat cheese and create a beautiful and irresistible platter for your guests to enjoy. Remember, the key to success is using the right tools, understanding the characteristics of the cheese, and taking your time to cut it properly.
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Serving suggestions for goat cheese
Marinated goat cheese is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
Appetizers and Snacks
For a simple and elegant appetizer or snack, serve the marinated goat cheese with crackers or toasted slices of baguette. The cheese can be spread on the crackers or bread, or served alongside for guests to help themselves. Toasted pita triangles or crostini would also be a good base for the cheese. For a more colourful and textured platter, add some apple or pear slices, and a drizzle of honey.
Salads
Crumble the marinated goat cheese over a bed of greens and vegetables for a tangy and creamy addition to a salad. The cheese can also be served in a warm salad, by placing a round of the cheese on a piece of bread and toasting it in the oven for a few minutes.
Sandwiches
Marinated goat cheese can be used to make a delicious sandwich. Spread the cheese on a baguette, or layer it with vegetables such as tomatoes, and greens of your choice.
Platters
For a more substantial offering, create a platter with the marinated goat cheese as the centrepiece. Surround it with a variety of meats, such as salami or prosciutto, and some sliced vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and peppers. Olives and cornichons would also be a nice addition.
Enhancements
To enhance the flavour of the marinated goat cheese, consider adding some herbs and spices. Thyme, basil, chives, rosemary, and sage are all good options. For a sweeter offering, add some honey and lavender to the cheese. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil will also enhance the flavour and texture of the cheese.
Remember to bring the cheese to room temperature before serving, and enjoy the creamy, tangy, and savoury flavours of this delicious dish!
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How to store marinated goat cheese
Marinated goat cheese is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, spread on a sandwich, or crumbled on a salad. It is essential to store it properly to maintain its freshness, flavour, and texture. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store marinated goat cheese:
Storing Marinated Goat Cheese:
Before storing, ensure that your goat cheese is correctly sealed. Once the seal is broken, goat cheese will quickly lose its freshness, flavour, and texture. If you have purchased a sealed package of fresh goat cheese and have not yet opened it, it can be stored in the refrigerator for about two months. However, if you have already opened the package, follow these steps:
- Remove the original packaging: Take the goat cheese out of its original packaging.
- Wrap the cheese: For aged goat cheeses, wrap the cheese in wax or parchment paper. This protective layer helps maintain the cheese's moisture and prevents it from drying out.
- Use an airtight container: Place the wrapped cheese in an airtight glass container. This extra layer of protection helps isolate the cheese from other odours in the refrigerator and prevents it from drying out.
- Refrigerate: Store the airtight container in the refrigerator. Aim to consume the cheese within a week. The longer it is stored, the higher the risk of spoilage and the formation of harmful bacteria.
- Bring to room temperature before serving: When ready to serve, remove the cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit for about 30 minutes to bring it to room temperature. This step is especially important for aged goat cheeses, as it softens the milk fat and ensures maximum flavour.
Storing Marinated Goat Cheese in Olive Oil:
If you have prepared marinated goat cheese in olive oil, follow these steps:
- Use a suitable container: Place the cheese in a glass jar or another suitable container.
- Cover with olive oil: Ensure that the cheese is completely submerged in olive oil. This helps preserve the cheese and infuses it with flavour.
- Seal and refrigerate: Seal the container tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Use the marinated goat cheese within a week to avoid the risk of botulism.
- Bring to room temperature before serving: When ready to serve, remove the cheese from the refrigerator about an hour beforehand. This will allow the olive oil to melt and regain its original clarity.
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Goat cheese alternatives
If you're looking for an alternative to goat cheese, there are several options available. The best substitute will depend on the recipe and your personal preferences. Here are some alternatives to consider:
- Cream cheese is a popular alternative to goat cheese due to its similar creamy texture and mildly tangy flavour. It is also usually affordable and readily available.
- Fromage blanc is a French cheese that is similar to cream cheese but a bit creamier, making it a great substitute for goat cheese.
- Tofu is a vegan and dairy-free alternative to goat cheese. It offers a similar texture and can be used in creamy sauces, dips, or spreads. However, it does not have a strong flavour like goat cheese.
- Boursin is a cow's milk cheese with a similar tang to goat cheese and is readily available in most supermarkets.
- Feta is a mixture of sheep and goat milk, so the "goatiness" is mellowed by the sheep's milk. It is also a good option for salads.
- Mascarpone is a good substitute for simpler, softer, and creamier goat cheeses. It is already whipped and creamy and can be used in recipes like bruschetta.
- Ricotta salata, Parmesan, or Pecorino are good alternatives for drier, aged, and more complex goat cheeses.
- Blue cheese can be used as a substitute for goat cheese in salads or other recipes.
While these alternatives may not perfectly replicate the unique flavour and texture of goat cheese, they can still be used to create delicious dishes.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to use a good-quality extra-virgin olive oil as the cheese will absorb a lot of the oil's flavour.
Fresh thyme pairs well with goat cheese, but so do many other herbs and spices. You can try: basil, chervil, chives, fennel seeds, garlic, lemon zest, mint, scallions, parsley, rosemary, sage, tarragon, or spice blends like herbes de Provence, za’atar, or dukkah.
Marinated goat cheese will last for up to one week in the fridge.
Goat cheese can be cut with a sharp knife that has been sprayed with cooking spray, but it is often easier to use unflavoured dental floss or a cheese wire to get neat slices.
Marinated goat cheese is delicious served with crackers or slices of toasted baguette. It can also be crumbled over salads, spread on a sandwich, or served with apple and pear slices.
