Goat Cheese Infusion Ideas For A Flavorful Kick

what to infuse goat cheese with

Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast to dessert. Its creamy texture and tangy flavour make it a great base to experiment with different infusions. A popular choice is to marinate goat cheese in olive oil and fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or dill, which can be served as an easy appetizer with bread or crackers. For a more unique flavour, garlic-infused olive oil can be drizzled on top of the cheese, or you can try coating the cheese slices with crushed nuts and baking or pan-frying them. Goat cheese can also be fried, grilled, or baked and used in salads, frittatas, or paired with fresh produce.

Characteristics Values
Type of Cheese Goat Cheese, Feta, Mozzarella
Texture Soft, Creamy
Flavour Tangy, Earthy, Buttery
Infuse With Olive Oil, Fresh Herbs, Garlic
Herbs Basil, Rosemary, Thyme, Dill, Chives
Other Ingredients Salt, Honey, Nuts, Berries, Lemon Juice, Balsamic Vinegar, Sumac, Coriander
Use Salad Topping, Appetizer, Dessert, Breakfast

cycheese

Olive oil and rosemary

Infusing Goat Cheese with Olive Oil and Rosemary

Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from appetizers to desserts. Infusing goat cheese with olive oil and rosemary can add a layer of flavor and elevate a simple dish. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating delicious rosemary-infused olive oil and pairing it with goat cheese:

Preparing the Rosemary-Infused Olive Oil:

  • Start by choosing a good quality extra virgin olive oil as your base.
  • For the rosemary, you can use fresh rosemary sprigs or dried rosemary, depending on what's available. If using dried rosemary, ensure it's of good quality to get the best flavor.
  • In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil and rosemary. You can also add other ingredients like garlic, pepper, and coriander for additional flavor.
  • Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Warm the olive oil mixture until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic or rosemary burn. This should take around 30 seconds to 2 minutes, depending on your heat source.
  • Once the oil is infused with the rosemary and other ingredients, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool.
  • If you prefer a clearer oil without the bits of rosemary, strain the oil using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer before using it.

Infusing Goat Cheese with the Olive Oil:

  • For this step, you can use a log or block of plain goat cheese. Soft goat cheese works best, but you can also use a firmer variety if that's what you have on hand.
  • Place the goat cheese in a shallow dish or bowl. You can also use a small jar if you plan on storing the infused cheese.
  • Drizzle the warm rosemary-infused olive oil over the goat cheese. You can also pour the oil and cheese into a jar, seal it, and shake it gently to coat the cheese evenly.
  • If you're using fresh rosemary sprigs, you can add a few to the dish or jar for extra flavor and presentation.
  • If desired, sprinkle a little coarse sea salt over the cheese to enhance the flavors.
  • The infused goat cheese can be served immediately with bread or crackers. It also makes a great addition to salads or used as a spread on sandwiches.

Storage and Serving Suggestions:

  • If you're making this ahead of time, store the infused goat cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
  • For a more spreadable consistency, you can blend the goat cheese with a small amount of the infused olive oil in a food processor or stand mixer until smooth.
  • This infused goat cheese makes a great appetizer or addition to a cheese board. Serve it with crusty bread, fresh baguette slices, or crackers.
  • For a special touch, garnish the dish with pomegranate seeds or fresh herbs for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Goat Cheese in the UK: What's in a Name?

You may want to see also

cycheese

Balsamic vinegar, sumac, coriander

There are many ways to infuse goat cheese, and it is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast to dessert.

Balsamic Vinegar

Balsamic vinegar is a great way to add a tangy and complex flavour to goat cheese. A simple dressing can be made by whisking together goat cheese, balsamic vinegar, and oil. This can be used as a salad dressing, or drizzled over warm roasted beets, carrots, and beet greens. For a thicker, creamier dressing, you can mix all the ingredients with a fork until smooth. This will result in a thick, creamy espresso-coloured dressing that can be drizzled over any salad of your choice.

Sumac

Sumac is a great way to add a tangy, lemony flavour to goat cheese. It can be used in a variety of dishes, such as rugelach, a crescent-shaped cookie that is usually layered with jam and chopped nuts and topped with cinnamon sugar. For a savoury take on this cookie, the dough can be filled with a thick onion jam flavoured with balsamic vinegar, sumac, and coriander, and then sprinkled with goat cheese.

Coriander

Coriander, when paired with sumac and balsamic vinegar, can add a unique flavour to goat cheese. Coriander is the leaf of the coriander plant; the seed of the same plant is known as cilantro, and the two have very different flavours. Coriander has a light, citrusy flavour, while cilantro has a stronger, more savoury flavour.

Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be infused with a variety of flavours, and these are just a few ideas to get you started.

cycheese

Honey and Greek yoghurt

For this recipe, plain goat cheese is recommended, but if you can find honey goat cheese, you can adjust the amount of honey to taste. Greek yoghurt adds a tangy flavour and gut-friendly probiotics. It is important to use thick Greek yoghurt, and you can adjust the amount to your preference or substitute it with cream cheese for a more spreadable texture.

The dip can be served with a variety of toppings, such as dried figs, cranberries, and fresh thyme. These toppings not only enhance the flavour but also add a touch of sweetness and a pretty presentation. You can also get creative and experiment with different dried fruits, such as chopped dates, fresh pomegranate, or dried apricots.

To make the dip, simply combine the goat cheese, Greek yoghurt, and honey in a food processor or mixing bowl and blend until smooth and creamy. It is best to make this dip a day or two in advance to allow the flavours to meld together. When ready to serve, top it with your desired toppings and a generous drizzle of hot honey.

This honey and Greek yoghurt goat cheese dip is a versatile appetizer that can be served with a variety of accompaniments. It pairs well with warm bread chunks, crackers, bread, sweet potato crostini, or fresh vegetables. It can also be used as a spread for sandwiches or served as a side dip with roasted chicken.

Goat Cheese: Processed or Not?

You may want to see also

cycheese

Chilli, lime, basil, and cilantro

Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from appetizers to desserts. Its creamy texture and tangy flavour make it a great base for infusing with other ingredients. Here are some ideas for infusing goat cheese with chilli, lime, basil, and cilantro:

This sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used as a dipping sauce, a dressing for salads, or a topping for roasted vegetables. To make this sauce, blend goat cheese with chopped cilantro, basil, lime juice, and chilli to taste. For a thinner consistency, add water, and adjust the amount of chilli to your preference. This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Carrot Basil Chilli with Goat Cheese

A hearty and flavourful dish, this carrot basil chilli is elevated with the addition of goat cheese. The goat cheese adds a tangy and creamy element to the chilli, which is packed with vegetables and spices. To make this dish, sauté carrots, onions, and garlic, then add water, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans, corn, and a variety of spices, including chilli powder and cumin. Finally, stir in the goat cheese and lemon juice until melted and combined. Serve over cooked brown rice and garnish with avocados, sour cream, olives, and lemon wedges.

Grilled Corn Husks with Goat Cheese

This recipe combines grilled corn husks filled with goat cheese, served with a relish made from charred corn kernels, scallions, chile, lime juice, cilantro, basil, and a drizzle of honey. The goat cheese filling balances the earthiness of the corn, adding a touch of tartness. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or picnic.

Marinated Goat Cheese with Chilli, Lime, Basil, and Cilantro

For an easy appetizer, marinate goat cheese in olive oil infused with garlic, chilli, lime zest, basil, and cilantro. Warm the olive oil and add the garlic, stirring until fragrant. Then, add the remaining ingredients and warm them in the oil. Pour the infused oil over the goat cheese and serve with toast or crackers. This appetizer can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature for up to 3 hours.

Mozzarella Cheese: Goat or Not?

You may want to see also

cycheese

Thyme, chives, dill

Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast to dessert. It has a creamy texture and a tangy, complex flavour that pairs well with fresh herbs such as thyme, chives, and dill.

Thyme, chives, and dill each have distinct flavours and aromas that can enhance the taste of goat cheese. Thyme, for example, has a subtle earthy and slightly floral aroma that can complement the tanginess of goat cheese. Chives, on the other hand, offer a mild onion flavour that can add a subtle sharpness to the cheese. Dill, with its fresh and tangy taste, can bring a bright and slightly sour note to the creamy cheese.

When infusing goat cheese with these herbs, a popular method is to marinate the cheese in olive oil. This can be done by warming extra-virgin olive oil with the herbs and, optionally, garlic. The warm oil softens and slightly melts the cheese, infusing it with the flavours of the herbs. This infused cheese can then be served as a spread on slices of baguette or crackers, or crumbled over salads.

To prepare the herb-infused goat cheese, start by slicing the goat cheese log into discs or rolling it into balls. You can pop the log in the freezer for about 10 minutes before slicing to make the process easier. Then, prepare the marinade by warming the olive oil with the herbs, garlic, and other spices such as chilli flakes and peppercorns. Add the goat cheese to the warm marinade, ensuring it is fully immersed. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least a few hours or up to a couple of days to allow the flavours to infuse.

The herb-infused goat cheese can be served as a simple appetizer or as part of a cheese board. It pairs well with fresh crusty bread, crackers, or baguette slices. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs on top of the cheese before serving to enhance the flavour and presentation. This infused goat cheese is a delicious and elegant way to elevate your next gathering or meal.

Frequently asked questions

You can infuse goat cheese with any herbs you have on hand, such as basil, rosemary, thyme, or dill.

Infused goat cheese can be used as an appetizer, spread on slices of fresh baguette or crackers. It can also be used in salads, frittatas, or fried and served on a simple salad.

Warm olive oil can be used to infuse herbs into goat cheese. The oil should be warmed in a pan with garlic, and then the herbs should be added and warmed until fragrant. The infused oil can then be drizzled on top of the goat cheese.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment