How To Eat Brie: A Guide For Cheese Lovers – Brie cheese is a French delicacy that’s beloved by foodies around the world. It’s a soft, creamy cheese that pairs well with crackers, bread, and wine. However, if you’ve never eaten brie before, you might be unsure of the etiquette and technique involved in enjoying it properly. Don’t worry – in this article, we’ll guide you through the process of eating brie like a pro.
What is Brie?
Brie is a soft-ripened cheese made from cow’s milk. It originated in the Brie region of France, which is why it’s commonly known as “French brie.” The cheese is characterized by its soft, creamy texture and mild, buttery flavor. It’s typically sold in round wheels and covered in a white, edible rind.
Choosing the Right Brie
When selecting a brie cheese, look for one that’s ripe and ready to eat. The cheese should be soft to the touch, but not overly mushy. The rind should be white, with no visible mold or discoloration. If you’re unsure of which brie to choose, ask the cheese monger for advice.
Preparing Brie for Eating
Before you can enjoy brie, you need to remove the rind. Some people prefer to eat the rind, but it’s a matter of personal preference. To remove the rind, use a sharp knife to cut off the top layer of the cheese. You can also score the top of the cheese with a knife to create a decorative pattern.
Serving Brie
Brie is best served at room temperature, so be sure to take it out of the fridge at least an hour before serving. You can serve brie on a platter with crackers, bread, and fruit, or incorporate it into a recipe like a baked brie appetizer. If you’re serving brie as part of a cheese board, pair it with other soft cheeses like camembert or goat cheese.
Eating Brie
Now comes the fun part – eating the brie! There are a few things to keep in mind when enjoying this delicious cheese:
- Use a cheese knife to cut a small piece of brie from the wheel.
- Place the brie on a cracker or piece of bread.
- Take a small bite, savoring the creamy texture and mild flavor.
- Chew slowly, allowing the flavors to develop on your palate.
- Repeat until you’ve had your fill of brie!
Pairing Brie with Wine
Brie pairs well with a variety of wines, including red, white, and sparkling. For a classic pairing, try a French red wine like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. If you prefer white wine, a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can be a great choice. For a special occasion, consider serving brie with a glass of champagne or sparkling wine.
Storing Brie
If you have leftover brie, store it in the fridge in an airtight container. However, keep in mind that brie is best enjoyed fresh – it can develop a strong, unpleasant odor if left in the fridge for too long. Try to eat leftover brie within a few days of opening the wheel.
FAQs
1. Can you eat the rind on brie?
Yes, you can eat the rind on brie. However, some people prefer to remove it before eating.
2. How long does brie last in the fridge?
Brie is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last in the fridge for up to a week if stored properly.
3. What should you serve with brie?
Brie pairs well with crackers, bread, fruit, and nuts. It’s also delicious when incorporated into recipes like baked brie or brie and apple tart.
4. What wine goes with brie?
Brie pairs well with a variety of wines, including red, white, and sparkling. Some classic pairings include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and champagne.
5. Can you freeze brie?
It’s not recommended to freeze brie, as it can alter the texture and flavor of the cheese.