Cold meat and cheese go wonderfully well together. Some types of cheese are known for their mild appeal whereas others are quite potent in flavour and aroma. The same can be said for cold meats. All the more reason to pair the two wisely.
Cheddar is one of the most popular types of cheese in the world. It’s enjoyed with various types of food, wine, and even added to various recipes as a significant ingredient. There are different types of cheddar and some are more crumbly than others. Cheddar tastes great with salami and similar meats. Its flavour is strong enough that it will not be overpowered by strong flavoured meats.
Brie is a popular French cheese and it is usually quite pale in colour. There are a few different types of brie but most are unpasteurized. Brie is known for its strong flavour and can also hold up really well when paired with stronger flavoured meats. If you choose something with a mild flavour, the meat will have little to no taste. Choose salami instead.
Gouda is another popular cheese around the world and we have the Netherlands to thank for this culinary delight. Gouda is usually aged between 4 weeks and a year or more. The older the cheese, the sweeter it becomes. This means that it can be perfectly paired with smoked meats as well as spicy meats.
Goat cheese is popular especially among those who are lactose intolerant. It has a very distinct and powerful flavour that you either love or hate. The shapes of these blocks of cheese vary and thy are perfectly paired with strong, spicy meats like pepperoni.
When pairing meat with cheese, remember that you also need to choose the right breads and beverages to match. Take a moment to create the right combinations for each type of cheese that you choose and make sure that you are available to help guide your guests choose the best combinations.