How to Serve Cheese Properly

Cheese is a classy and versatile dairy food that can be enjoyed as a hors d'oeuvre, used in the entrée and also served as part of the dessert. This delicacy made by curdling milk has a longer shelf life than milk yet it has the same nutritional advantages, if not more, as milk. Different types of milk are used to produce cheese and these gives varied flavors. Cheese from goat milk has a distinct flavor from cow milk cheese. Usually cheese is stored in the refrigerator and not the freezer. It should be allowed to reach room temperature before serving for the full flavor and benefits to be realized. This is the first rule in serving cheese properly.

The versatility of cheese is further displayed in the different vessels on which it can be served. You may choose to use a wooden block or a plate depending on your theme, availability and just personal preference. Whichever vessel you choose, make sure it is not crowded. If you intend to serve several types of cheeses, then either get a bigger cheese board or serve cheese on different smaller boards. A well arranged cheese board ensures that it is easy to cut the cheese.

The number of guests you are expecting should guide you on how much cheese to serve. Another determinant is whether it is a hors d’oeuvre or a dessert platter. Usually a cheese dessert platter will require you to serve less cheese, while an appetizer will require more. This is especially if the serving style is buffet and your guests are eaters or if you are serving a light entrée.

Since cheeses have different flavors, arrange them in a sequence on the plate. Start with the strongest, usually the blues, to the mildest in a clockwise manner. Make sure your plate is neat and keep the cheese within the rim of the plate. You may choose to pre-cut your cheese into slices or cubes. However do this just prior to serving so that the cut surface does not get too dry, especially if the cheese is rindless.

Always ensure that there is a suitable cheese knife to cut the cheese if you have not pre-cut it. If possible have different knives for different cheeses so that the flavors do not get all mixed up. Softer cheeses like goat cheese should be served with a spoon for easy spreading.

The accompaniment for your cheese will bring out different flavors and enhance others. Usually crackers are good as they can be used as a palate cleanser. Bread is more commonly used and is the best accompaniment for cheese. Nutty and fruity breads are the most interesting accompaniment and should be tried for extra flavor. Other accompaniments are nuts, dried fruits or a date cake. These can be served on a side plate or on the cheese board for a more creative presentation. Onion slices are great for the strong blues.

A drink is essential when serving cheese. Wine is the finest choice though water may also be served. The wine served with the entrée should do well with a dessert cheese dish. However you can also pick a different wine for a cheese dessert. Try strong cheeses with syrupy wines and enjoy the intensified flavor.