The Perfect Cheese Pairing For Turkey

Turkey and cheese is a classic combination, whether it's a sandwich or a cheeseboard. But which cheese goes best with turkey? There are several options, depending on your taste preferences and the type of dish you're preparing. For a mild and slightly sweet flavour, gouda is a good choice, while provolone is a popular option for Italian-style sandwiches. If you're looking for something more complex, Asiago, a mountain-style cheese from Veneto in Italy, can add a sweet and buttery taste to your sandwich. For those who enjoy bold flavours, blue cheese can be an interesting addition to a cheeseboard, with its tangy and pungent taste. Ultimately, the best cheese to pair with turkey depends on personal preference and the specific ingredients used.

Provolone, Swiss, and cheddar are popular choices

Swiss cheese is another good option to pair with turkey, as its nutty and mild flavour will not overwhelm the taste of the meat. It works well in a turkey sandwich or as a melted topping on a hot turkey dish.

Cheddar is a versatile cheese that pairs well with many dishes, including turkey. It provides a sharp and savoury contrast to the turkey's flavours, making it a popular choice for sandwiches or as a topping for casseroles.

Brie is a good option for its creamy and buttery texture

Brie's creamy and buttery qualities make it an excellent choice for those seeking a rich and indulgent experience. The smooth, creamy mouthfeel of Brie adds a luxurious dimension to the dining experience. When paired with turkey, Brie's richness enhances the overall flavour profile of the dish. Its buttery notes also contribute to a more decadent and indulgent sensation.

Furthermore, Brie's versatility extends beyond its taste and texture. Its spreadable nature makes it a convenient and versatile option for various serving methods. It can be effortlessly spread on crackers or rolls, providing a simple yet elegant presentation. This quality makes Brie an excellent choice for those seeking convenience without compromising taste.

In addition to its flavour and texture, Brie's visual appeal adds to its allure. Its soft, creamy colour and smooth surface create an inviting appearance. When presented alongside turkey slices, Brie adds a touch of sophistication to the dish. Its visual contrast with the turkey's texture and colour enhances the overall dining experience, making it a delightful choice for those who appreciate the aesthetics of food.

Brie's popularity as a cheese pairing for turkey is undeniable, and its creamy and buttery texture is a significant factor in its appeal. Its rich, indulgent flavour and versatile serving options make it a favourite among those seeking a delicious and convenient option to elevate their turkey dishes. For a well-loved, indulgent, and versatile cheese, Brie is an excellent choice.

Gouda is mild and slightly sweet

Gouda is a mild and slightly sweet cheese that can beautifully complement the rich flavours of turkey without overpowering its taste. It is a great choice for a Thanksgiving cheese platter, as it pairs well with the traditional side dishes served during the holiday. Gouda can be served as slices or cubes, making it a versatile option for your meal.

When creating a cheese platter, it is essential to consider the different flavours and textures of the cheeses you select. Gouda, with its mild and sweet taste, can be a great starting point for your selection. You can choose to include a variety of cheeses with different intensities, ranging from mild to strong, to cater to different palates and provide an exciting cheese experience for your guests.

The beauty of Gouda lies in its versatility. Its mild flavour profile makes it an excellent base for exploring different combinations. You can pair it with other mild cheeses, such as Edam or Monterey Jack, to create a harmonious flavour palette. Alternatively, you can contrast it with sharper cheeses, like Cheddar or Swiss, to offer a diverse range of options.

When serving Gouda with turkey, consider the overall flavour profile of your dish. If your turkey is packed with flavour or smoked, the mildness of Gouda will provide a balanced pairing. On the other hand, if your turkey is on the milder side, you can combine Gouda with slightly more complex cheeses, such as Asiago or Pepper Jack, to enhance the flavours without overwhelming them.

In conclusion, Gouda is an excellent choice for those seeking a mild and slightly sweet cheese to accompany their turkey. Its versatility, both in terms of flavour and serving options, makes it a crowd-pleaser and a great foundation for crafting a well-rounded cheese selection. Remember, the key to a successful cheese platter is to offer a variety of cheeses that will delight and surprise your guests, ensuring a memorable culinary experience.

Blue cheese is a bold choice with a tangy and pungent taste

Blue cheese is a bold choice to pair with turkey, offering a tangy and pungent taste. It's a great option if you're looking for something adventurous to spice up your turkey sandwich. While it may not be for the faint of heart, blue cheese can add a nice kick to your meal.

When choosing blue cheese, you can opt for a mild variety like Gorgonzola Dolce or Cambozola. These options offer a gentle introduction to blue cheese, providing a milder spice that won't overwhelm the other ingredients. They strike a perfect balance, adding just the right amount of zing to your sandwich without being too overpowering.

If you're feeling even more adventurous, you can explore stronger varieties of blue cheese, such as Stilton or Roquefort. These cheeses pack a more potent punch and are sure to leave a lasting impression. However, it's important to remember that a little goes a long way with these stronger cheeses, so use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavours in your sandwich.

To create the perfect blue cheese and turkey sandwich, start by selecting a crusty roll or a soft bread, such as a baguette or ciabatta. Thinly slice your blue cheese and layer it generously on one half of the bread. Add slices of leftover turkey, preferably sliced as thin as possible. You can also include some mixed greens and drizzle them with a vinaigrette for added freshness. Finish with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and perhaps a drizzle of olive oil, to create a delicious and flavourful sandwich.

For those who enjoy bold flavours, blue cheese can be a delightful surprise on a Thanksgiving cheese platter. Its tangy and pungent taste pairs remarkably well with the mildness of the turkey, offering a unique contrast that's sure to impress your guests. So, if you're looking to step outside your culinary comfort zone, give blue cheese a try!

Monterey Jack and Havarti are great if your turkey is packed with flavour

If your turkey is packed with flavour, you'll want to opt for a mild, young cheese to ensure your taste buds aren't overloaded. While there are several great options, Monterey Jack and Havarti are two excellent choices. These cheeses will complement your turkey without overwhelming its flavour.

Monterey Jack is a semi-soft cheese with a mild, buttery flavour and a slight tang. It's an excellent melting cheese, making it a perfect choice for grilled cheese sandwiches or other hot dishes. On the other hand, Havarti is a mild, semi-soft cheese with a creamy texture and a slightly sweet and nutty flavour. It's another good melting cheese, so it's versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes.

Both Monterey Jack and Havarti have a subtle flavour that won't overpower your turkey. They strike the right balance, ensuring your taste buds can savour the flavours of both the cheese and the turkey. If you want to elevate your turkey even further, you could also try Provolone Dolce, a mild, young cheese with hints of nuts and a sweet finish.

When creating a turkey and cheese dish, it's important to consider the other ingredients you're using. For instance, if you're making a sandwich, you might want to add some cranberry sauce, bacon, mayonnaise, avocado, lettuce, or tomato. These ingredients can enhance the flavour of your dish and provide a contrast of textures. Additionally, the type of bread you choose can make a difference; soft white bread, wholemeal bread, or Italian bread with a crusty exterior can all work well with turkey and cheese.

Frequently asked questions