Drunk goat cheese, or fromage ivre, is a delightful and intriguing cheese that has been soaked in wine, resulting in a unique flavor profile and often a beautiful rind. This process imparts fruity, often slightly tart, and sometimes even earthy notes to the cheese, creating a complex and unforgettable experience. But what are the best pairings to elevate this already exceptional cheese? This article explores a variety of food and drink pairings that complement drunk goat cheese, transforming a simple cheese plate into a gourmet experience.
Understanding the Flavor Profile of Drunk Goat Cheese
Before diving into pairings, it’s crucial to understand the characteristics of drunk goat cheese. The flavor profile depends heavily on the type of wine used for soaking. Red wine-soaked cheeses tend to have bolder, fruitier, and sometimes spicy notes, while white wine-soaked cheeses are often more delicate, floral, and subtly sweet. The age of the goat cheese also plays a significant role. Younger cheeses are typically tangier, while aged varieties develop a more complex and nutty flavor.
The rind is also a key element. The wine staining creates a visually appealing exterior and often contributes to the overall taste. Some rinds may be slightly bitter or have a yeasty aroma, adding another layer of complexity. Consider these factors when selecting pairings to ensure a harmonious blend of flavors.
Pairing with Fruits and Vegetables
The acidity and creamy texture of goat cheese make it an excellent companion for a variety of fruits and vegetables. The key is to choose options that balance the richness of the cheese and complement the specific wine notes.
Fresh Fruits
Berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, are a classic pairing with goat cheese. Their sweetness and slight tartness cut through the creaminess, while their bright flavors enhance the fruity notes imparted by the wine. Stone fruits, like peaches, plums, and apricots, also work well, especially when grilled or roasted to intensify their sweetness. The warmth and caramelized edges add a delightful textural contrast.
Melons, such as cantaloupe and honeydew, offer a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the cheese. Their mild sweetness and high water content cleanse the palate, making them a perfect pairing for a warm day. Figs, both fresh and dried, are another excellent choice. Their honeyed sweetness and slightly chewy texture complement the creamy texture and tangy flavor of goat cheese.
Vegetables
Roasted vegetables can bring out the best in drunk goat cheese. Root vegetables like beets, carrots, and parsnips offer earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cheese’s complexity. Drizzling them with a balsamic glaze adds a touch of acidity that further enhances the pairing.
Asparagus, especially when grilled, provides a slightly bitter and vegetal note that balances the richness of the cheese. The smoky char from grilling adds another layer of flavor that complements the wine infusion.
Consider a salad with mixed greens, toasted nuts, and a vinaigrette to pair with drunk goat cheese.
Pairing with Breads and Crackers
The right bread or cracker can provide the perfect textural and flavor base for enjoying drunk goat cheese. The choice depends on the intensity of the cheese’s flavor and the desired level of crunch.
Breads
A crusty baguette is a classic choice. Its simple flavor and slightly chewy texture allow the cheese to shine. Toasted sourdough bread offers a more complex flavor profile with its tangy notes, creating a delightful contrast to the creamy richness of the goat cheese. Walnut bread adds a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture, complementing the cheese’s complexity.
Fruit and nut bread, particularly fig and almond bread, provides a touch of sweetness and crunch that pairs beautifully with the fruity notes imparted by the wine.
Crackers
Simple water crackers are a great option for allowing the cheese to take center stage. Their neutral flavor and crisp texture provide a blank canvas for the cheese’s complexities.
Whole-wheat crackers offer a nutty flavor and a slightly heartier texture that complements the earthy notes of the cheese. Olive oil crackers add a subtle richness and a savory element that enhances the overall experience.
Pairing with Meats and Charcuterie
While drunk goat cheese is delicious on its own or with fruits and vegetables, pairing it with meats and charcuterie can create a more substantial and satisfying meal.
Cured Meats
Prosciutto, with its salty and slightly sweet flavor, is a classic pairing. The delicate texture and rich flavor of prosciutto complement the creamy texture and tangy flavor of the goat cheese.
Salami, especially varieties with fennel or black pepper, adds a spicy and savory element that balances the richness of the cheese. The different textures and flavors create a delightful interplay on the palate.
Consider pairing with a dry-cured sausage.
Other Meats
Smoked salmon, with its rich, smoky flavor and delicate texture, provides a luxurious pairing. The saltiness of the salmon complements the tanginess of the goat cheese. Roasted chicken or turkey breast, thinly sliced, offers a leaner and more neutral pairing that allows the cheese to shine. The savory flavor of the meat complements the cheese’s complexity.
Pairing with Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds add texture, flavor, and nutritional value to a drunk goat cheese pairing. The best choices depend on the desired level of sweetness, saltiness, and crunch.
Nuts
Walnuts are a classic pairing, offering a slightly bitter and earthy flavor that complements the cheese’s complexity. Toasted almonds provide a sweeter and more delicate flavor, as well as a satisfying crunch. Pecans add a buttery sweetness and a slightly chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy richness of the goat cheese.
Seeds
Pumpkin seeds (pepitas) offer a nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch. Sesame seeds add a subtle nutty flavor and a slightly bitter note that balances the cheese’s richness.
Wine and Beer Pairings
The wine used to soak the goat cheese provides a natural starting point for beverage pairings. However, exploring other options can lead to unexpected and delightful discoveries.
Wine
If the cheese was soaked in red wine, consider pairing it with a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. These wines offer fruity notes and a refreshing acidity that complements the cheese’s flavor profile.
If the cheese was soaked in white wine, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling can be a great choice. These wines offer citrusy notes and a refreshing acidity that enhances the cheese’s flavors.
Rosé wines, especially dry varieties, offer a versatile pairing option. Their fruity notes and refreshing acidity complement the cheese’s richness and tanginess.
Beer
Belgian-style ales, with their fruity and spicy notes, provide a complex pairing that complements the cheese’s flavor profile. Saisons, with their peppery and citrusy notes, offer a refreshing and complementary pairing.
Creating the Perfect Drunk Goat Cheese Plate
Putting together a well-balanced cheese plate is an art. Consider these tips to create a visually appealing and delicious spread that showcases the unique flavors of drunk goat cheese.
Variety is key. Offer a range of textures and flavors to create a balanced and interesting experience. Include fresh and dried fruits, nuts, crackers, and perhaps a small dish of honey or fig jam.
Arrange the items artfully on the board. Use different shapes and colors to create a visually appealing display. Consider the order in which guests will likely sample the items, placing milder flavors at the beginning and bolder flavors towards the end.
Provide serving utensils. This will help prevent cross-contamination and make it easier for guests to enjoy the cheese and accompaniments.
Label the cheeses. This will help guests identify the different varieties and understand their flavor profiles.
Beyond the Cheese Plate: Culinary Applications
Drunk goat cheese isn’t just for cheese plates. Its unique flavor and creamy texture make it a versatile ingredient in a variety of culinary applications.
Salads
Crumble drunk goat cheese over salads for a tangy and creamy addition. It pairs well with mixed greens, roasted vegetables, and vinaigrette dressings.
Tarts and Quiches
Use drunk goat cheese as a filling for tarts and quiches. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor add depth and complexity to these savory dishes.
Pasta Dishes
Add drunk goat cheese to pasta dishes for a rich and flavorful sauce. It pairs well with roasted vegetables, herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Sandwiches and Wraps
Spread drunk goat cheese on sandwiches and wraps for a creamy and tangy addition. It pairs well with roasted vegetables, cured meats, and fresh herbs.
Drunk goat cheese is a truly exceptional cheese that deserves to be enjoyed with thoughtful pairings. By understanding its flavor profile and experimenting with different combinations, you can create unforgettable culinary experiences that will delight your palate and impress your guests. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and explore the delicious world of drunk goat cheese!
What is “drunk” goat cheese and how does it differ from regular goat cheese?
“Drunk” goat cheese, also known as vino-soaked goat cheese, is goat cheese that has been aged or marinated in wine, beer, or other alcoholic beverages. This infusion process imparts distinct flavors and aromas to the cheese, absorbing the qualities of the liquor it’s bathed in.
Unlike regular goat cheese, which primarily offers a tangy, sometimes grassy flavor profile, drunk goat cheese boasts a more complex taste. The alcohol’s influence introduces fruity, spicy, or earthy notes depending on the type of beverage used, often resulting in a smoother, creamier texture due to the softening effect of the alcohol.
What types of wine pair best with drunk goat cheese?
The best wine pairing for drunk goat cheese heavily depends on the type of alcohol used in its production. Generally, you want to mirror or complement the flavors infused in the cheese. For example, a goat cheese soaked in red wine would pair well with a lighter-bodied red like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, as these wines often share earthy and fruity undertones.
White wines like Sauvignon Blanc or dry Rosé can also work beautifully, especially if the goat cheese has been soaked in a similar white or rosé. The acidity in these wines helps cut through the richness of the cheese, creating a balanced palate experience. Consider the specific notes imparted by the alcohol infusion when making your selection.
Are there any non-alcoholic pairings that complement drunk goat cheese?
Absolutely! While the cheese itself contains alcohol, non-alcoholic beverages can still enhance the tasting experience. Sparkling cider or grape juice offer a refreshing sweetness that contrasts nicely with the tanginess of the goat cheese and the subtle alcoholic notes.
Furthermore, flavored sparkling water, particularly those with berry or citrus undertones, provides a light and effervescent counterpoint. Consider fruit-infused water with cucumber or mint for a clean and refreshing palate cleanser between bites. Focus on flavors that complement the underlying notes of the cheese, regardless of the alcoholic infusion.
What are some creative appetizer ideas featuring drunk goat cheese?
Drunk goat cheese is incredibly versatile and lends itself to many exciting appetizer creations. Consider spreading it on crusty baguette slices and topping it with fig jam and toasted walnuts for a sweet and savory combination. Alternatively, crumble it over a bed of arugula with balsamic glaze and roasted beets for a colorful and flavorful salad.
Another option is to incorporate it into miniature tarts or quiches with caramelized onions and herbs. The creamy texture and unique flavor profile of the drunk goat cheese elevate these simple appetizers to gourmet status. Remember to consider the specific flavor of the cheese when selecting complementary ingredients.
Can I use drunk goat cheese in cooking main courses?
Yes, drunk goat cheese can be a delightful addition to main courses, adding a layer of complexity and creaminess. Try crumbling it over grilled chicken or fish to add a tangy and rich flavor. It also works well in pasta dishes, either melted into the sauce or scattered on top as a garnish.
Consider incorporating it into a vegetarian dish, such as a stuffed bell pepper with quinoa and vegetables. The goat cheese adds a welcome creaminess and balances the earthiness of the other ingredients. Just remember that the cheese will melt, so it’s best to add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its flavor and texture.
How should I store drunk goat cheese to maintain its quality and flavor?
Like other cheeses, drunk goat cheese should be stored properly to prevent it from drying out or absorbing unwanted odors. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or cheese paper to protect it from exposure to air.
Place the wrapped cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ideally in the cheese drawer or a crisper drawer. This helps maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level, preventing spoilage and preserving its flavor. Consume it within a week of opening for optimal quality.
Are there any potential allergies or dietary concerns related to consuming drunk goat cheese?
Individuals with lactose intolerance or a goat milk allergy should avoid consuming drunk goat cheese, as it retains the lactose and proteins inherent in goat milk. While the alcohol content might be relatively low, those with alcohol sensitivities or those who are avoiding alcohol for medical or personal reasons should also be cautious.
Furthermore, it’s important to note that some drunk goat cheeses may contain other allergens depending on the specific ingredients used in the soaking or aging process. Always check the product label carefully to identify any potential allergens before consumption. If you are unsure, consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian.