As a true connoisseur of the finest cheeses, you understand that indulging in this culinary delight requires more than just a casual toss onto a plate. Picture this: a Camembert that melts on your tongue, a Cheddar that exudes its robust essence, or a Roquefort that dances with your taste buds. To truly appreciate their flavour and texture, you need to serve cheese at room temperature. Read on to find out why.
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Why is it Important?
Before we delve into the nuanced world of cheese etiquette, let’s address the pressing question. Why is serving cheese at room temperature so crucial?
Well, my fellow cheese enthusiasts, it all boils down to science and sensory experience. When cheese is served at room temperature, its complex aromas and flavours are at their prime. As a result, you can savour every subtle note and texture.
On the other hand, cold temperatures suppress these nuanced characteristics, robbing you of the full spectrum of sensory delight that fine cheese can offer.
General guidelines for cheese serving
Now that we’re on the same page about the importance of room temperature, let’s explore the general guidelines for perfect cheese presentation.
The beauty of cheese lies not only in its diverse flavours but also in the rich tapestry of cultural traditions that it weaves. As you might expect, the approach to serving cheese at room temperature can indeed vary from country to country.
France
In France, for instance, cheese is often considered an art form, and serving it at the right temperature is a sacred ritual. As a matter of fact, most French cheese lovers (is that tautology?) store their cheese on the kitchen counter rather than in a fridge.
The relatively low ambient temperatures allow this to be a safe practice. But the main reason why this works is because they consume the cheese they buy very promptly.
In warmer climates
Meanwhile, in warmer climates, you will want to keep your cheese at its best by refrigerating it. But, as we’ve already ascertained, you must allow the cheese to get to room temperature before serving.
Hence, we recommend removing your cheese from the fridge one hour before serving. This is particularly critical for soft and semi-soft cheeses. For semi-hard and hard cheeses, 30 minutes are usually sufficient.
Are there any exceptions to this rule?
While we stand by the rule of thumb that cheese should be enjoyed at room temperature, there are a few exceptions to this rule.
When grating hard cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano, Cheddar or Gouda, you will want to get them straight from the fridge. The reason for this is because the firmer texture makes it easier to grate.
Once your cheese has been grated, you can them allow it to get to room temperature before serving or cooking.
Another exception is sliced Raclette. Cheeses like Raclette are very high in fat and can sweat if they get too warm. If you are using pre-sliced Raclette for your party, our advice is to leave it in the fridge until it is time to melt!
Summary: the art of serving cheese at room temperature
In the grand tapestry of gastronomy, serving cheese at room temperature emerges as a small yet crucial thread that enhances our sensory exploration.
From the creamy delights of Camembert to the crumbly pleasures of Stilton, each cheese has its own story to tell – a story that can only be fully appreciated when it’s allowed to express itself at the right temperature.
So, my fellow aficionados, let us embark on this journey of heightened cheese etiquette. Take the time, exercise patience, and relish in the symphony of flavours that only room temperature cheese can offer. Your taste buds will thank you, and your appreciation for cheese will reach new, elevated heights.
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!
