Creating a perfect French cheese plate can seem like a daunting task, but with the help of a cheese expert at Murray’s Cheese in New York, you can easily put together a delicious and impressive spread. From hard cheeses like Comté to soft cheeses like Camembert, and even blues like Roquefort, there are endless options to choose from. With a few tips and tricks, you can create a cheese plate that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
First and foremost, it’s important to understand the different types of French cheeses and how to properly store and serve them. Hard cheeses, such as Comté, are aged for a longer period of time and have a firm texture. Soft cheeses, like Camembert, are younger and have a creamy texture. Blues, like Roquefort, are made with the addition of mold, giving them a distinct flavor and appearance. Rustic picks are often made from raw milk and have a more robust and earthy taste. Knowing these differences will help you create a well-rounded cheese plate with a variety of flavors and textures.
When selecting your cheeses, it’s best to choose a mix of hard, soft, and blue cheeses. This will provide a balance of flavors and textures that will complement each other. Murray’s Cheese offers a wide selection of French cheeses, so don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from their knowledgeable staff. They can guide you towards the best options based on your preferences and the occasion.
Once you have your cheeses, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. Hard cheeses should be wrapped in wax or parchment paper and stored in the refrigerator. Soft cheeses should be kept in their original packaging or wrapped in wax paper and stored in the refrigerator. Blues should be wrapped in foil or plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator. It’s best to take the cheeses out of the refrigerator about an hour before serving to allow them to come to room temperature and enhance their flavors.
Now, let’s dive into the different types of French cheeses and how to serve them. Comté is a hard cheese with a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. It pairs well with fruits, nuts, and cured meats. To serve, cut it into thin slices and arrange it on your cheese plate. Camembert is a soft cheese with a creamy texture and a mild, buttery flavor. It’s best served with crackers or crusty bread and can also be paired with fruits and nuts. To serve, cut the top rind off and scoop out the creamy center onto your plate. Roquefort is a blue cheese with a sharp and tangy flavor. It pairs well with honey, figs, and walnuts. To serve, cut it into small wedges and place it on your cheese plate. Rustic picks, such as Morbier or Tomme de Savoie, have a more intense and complex flavor. They pair well with crusty bread, olives, and cured meats. To serve, cut them into wedges or cubes and arrange them on your cheese plate.
To elevate your cheese plate even further, you can add some accompaniments such as honey, fig jam, or fruit preserves. These will add a touch of sweetness and balance out the flavors of the cheeses. You can also include some cured meats, such as prosciutto or salami, to add a savory element to your plate. Don’t forget to include some crusty bread or crackers for your guests to enjoy with the cheeses.
When it comes to serving the cheese plate, presentation is key. Arrange the cheeses on a wooden board or platter, leaving enough space between each cheese for easy cutting and serving. You can also add some garnishes, such as fresh herbs or edible flowers, to add a pop of color and make the plate more visually appealing. Labeling the cheeses is also a nice touch, especially if your guests are not familiar with French cheeses.
In conclusion, creating a great French cheese plate is all about understanding the different types of cheeses, how to store and serve them, and adding some complementary accompaniments. With the help of a cheese expert at Murray’s Cheese, you can easily put together a delicious and impressive spread that will leave your guests wanting more. So next time you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to indulge in some delicious French cheeses, head to Murray’s Cheese and let their expertise guide you towards creating the perfect cheese plate. Bon appét
