Camembert is one of the most iconic cheeses in the world. Originating from Normandy, France, this bloomyrind cheese is a favourite among cheese lovers. While it’s delightful on its own, the right food pairings can enhance its flavour and texture, creating a more enjoyable experience. Let’s explore the ten best food pairings that bring out the best in Camembert cheese.
How to pair cheese with food
The strategy of choosing between complementary and contrasting flavours adds an exciting dimension to the culinary experience.
Complementary pairings involve flavours that harmonise, enhancing and reinforcing each other’s qualities. For instance, the creamy richness of Camembert finds a perfect companion in the sweet and tart notes of apple and honey, creating a seamless and indulgent symphony.
On the flip side, contrasting pairings embrace the “opposites attract” philosophy, where flavours play off each other to create balance. Prosciutto, with its salty and savoury profile, provides a bold contrast to the creaminess of Camembert, resulting in a dynamic flavour dance that keeps the palate intrigued.
Whether choosing harmony or discord, the art of pairing is a personal journey that allows for endless creativity in crafting a cheese experience that’s uniquely yours.
Best foods to pair with Camembert
1. Fresh baguette
One of the simplest and most classic food pairings for Camembert is a fresh baguette. The crusty exterior and soft, airy interior of a traditional French baguette make it a perfect complement to the creamy texture of the cheese. The mild flavour of the bread allows the rich taste of the Camembert to shine.
The crunch of the baguette contrasts beautifully with the softness of the cheese, creating a perfect bite. This combination is ideal for a light lunch or as part of a cheeseboard for a relaxed gathering.
2. Apples and pears
Fresh fruit, particularly apples and pears, is a fantastic pairing for Camembert. The crisp, juicy texture of these fruits contrasts with the creamy cheese, while their natural sweetness complements the cheese’s earthy, slightly tangy flavour.
Green apples like Granny Smith provide a tartness that cuts through the richness of the cheese, while sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala add a pleasant sweetness. Pears, especially when ripe, bring a delicate sweetness that enhances the creamy texture of the Camembert.
Serve the cheese with slices of apple or pear for a refreshing and balanced snack, perfect for a light meal or an afternoon treat.
3. Honey and nuts
For those who enjoy a sweet and savoury combination, honey and nuts are an excellent food pairing with Camembert. Drizzling a bit of honey over the cheese adds a touch of sweetness that contrasts with its savoury, earthy flavour. The honey’s floral notes also enhance the creamy texture of the cheese.
Nuts, particularly walnuts, pecans or almonds, add a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the Camembert. Their nutty, buttery flavours blend well with the cheese, providing a balanced and satisfying bite.
This pairing works beautifully as a dessert-like option on a cheeseboard or as an elegant snack.
4. Chutney and jam
Chutney and jam offer a burst of flavour that pairs wonderfully with Camembert. A fruity chutney, such as fig or apple, provides a sweet and slightly tangy contrast to the creamy, earthy cheese. The spices in chutney add depth, making each bite more interesting.
For something sweeter, try pairing Camembert with jam. Fig or apricot jam works particularly well, adding a smooth, sweet layer to the rich cheese. Spread the chutney or jam on crackers or bread, and top it with a slice of Camembert for a delicious balance of flavours.
This pairing is perfect for casual meals or as a fun addition to a cheeseboard.
5. Prosciutto or salami
Camembert pairs exceptionally well with cured meats like prosciutto or salami. The saltiness of the meat contrasts with the mild, creamy cheese, creating a savoury and satisfying combination.
Prosciutto, with its delicate and slightly sweet flavour, complements the creaminess of the cheese without overpowering it. Salami, on the other hand, offers a bolder taste with hints of spice, balancing the richness of the Camembert.
This pairing is perfect for a charcuterie board or a picnic, especially when served with crackers or fresh bread.
6. Roasted vegetables
Roasted vegetables, especially those with natural sweetness, make great food pairings with Camembert. Vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash, when roasted, develop a caramelised sweetness that complements the cheese’s earthy, savoury flavours.
The softness of the roasted vegetables complements the creaminess of the Camembert, creating a rich and satisfying combination. You can serve the cheese alongside the vegetables or melt it slightly and use it as a dip.
This food pairing works well as a side dish or part of a main course, particularly during cooler months when roasted vegetables are at their best.
7. Baked Camembert with garlic and herbs
For a warm, indulgent treat, baked Camembert is an excellent option. Baking the cheese softens it into a gooey, molten centre that’s perfect for dipping. Adding garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before baking enhances the cheese’s flavour.
The garlic adds a bold, savoury note, while the herbs bring out the cheese’s earthy undertones. Once baked, serve the Camembert with slices of toasted baguette or roasted vegetables for dipping.
This pairing is ideal for a cosy evening or as a starter at a dinner party, offering a luxurious, crowd-pleasing dish.
8. Cranberries and dried fruit
Cranberries and dried fruit, such as figs, apricots and dates, are excellent pairings for Camembert, providing a sweet and tangy contrast to the creamy cheese. The tartness of cranberries cuts through the richness, while the chewy texture of dried fruits adds an interesting contrast to the soft cheese.
The natural sweetness of dried fruit complements the buttery texture and flavour of the Camembert, making each bite a delightful balance of sweet and savoury.
This pairing is especially popular during the festive season but can be enjoyed year-round as a light dessert or snack.
9. Crackers or biscuits
Crackers or biscuits are a classic and versatile pairing for Camembert. Their crunchy texture contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy cheese, making them the perfect vehicle for spreading or layering the cheese.
Opt for simple, lightly salted crackers or buttery biscuits that won’t overpower the flavour of the cheese. Water crackers, oat biscuits or even thin slices of toasted rye bread are excellent options.
This pairing is ideal for a cheeseboard or a casual snack and works well with other accompaniments like fruit or chutney.
10. Mushrooms
Finally, for an earthy and umami-rich pairing, try Camembert with mushrooms. Both share a deep, earthy flavour that complements each other perfectly. Mushrooms, especially when sautéed or roasted, bring out the mushroomy notes in the rind of the Camembert, enhancing the overall experience.
Sauté mushrooms in butter with garlic and herbs, then serve them alongside or on top of a piece of Camembert. This pairing is hearty, flavourful, and satisfying, making it perfect as a side dish or part of a main meal.
Conclusion
Camembert’s rich, creamy texture and distinctive earthy flavour make it an incredibly versatile cheese that pairs well with a wide range of foods. From the simplicity of a fresh baguette to the sweet and savoury contrast of fruit, chutney and honey, there’s no shortage of delicious combinations to enjoy with this classic cheese.
Whether you’re putting together a cheeseboard for a dinner party or indulging in a casual snack, these ten food pairings will help you make the most of your Camembert. With so many options to choose from, you can easily tailor your pairings to suit your mood and occasion, enhancing the flavour and texture of this beloved French cheese.
Jonah is a a hipster, eco-warrior and slow food afficionado. Coming from a scientific background, Jonah has a particular interest in cheese science. And yes, he loves a good cheese pun!
