When choosing chevre cheese, consider the type, manufacturer, and additions. Chevre comes in various shapes and varieties, and knowing the grower can help. Some chevre contains flavorings like herbs, fruit, or nuts. Choose the type of cheese based on the desired recipe.
When choosing chevre cheese, it’s important to consider the type of cheese, information about the manufacturing company, and any additions that may alter the flavor. It also helps to think about how the cheese will be used; the ideal chevre, or goat cheese, to spread on croutons may not be the same chevre used to make a savory grilled cheese sandwich. It can also help to taste the cheese before you buy it, to make sure the texture and flavor meet expectations.
Chevre comes in many different shapes, sizes and varieties. While most people are familiar with soft goat cheese, which is sold in logs or tubs, there are also semi-soft and aged hard goat cheeses. Gouda and cheddar are both types of hard cheese that can be created with goat’s milk instead of the more familiar cow’s milk version and can provide a wonderful flavor variation to these classic cheeses. The aging process deepens and smoothes the flavors of the chevre and alters the texture; a brand new goat cheese will be soft, crumbly, and quite tangy, while an aged goat cheddar will generally be firm with a delicate, though still noticeable bite.
Choosing the best chevre cheese can be made easier by knowing a little about the grower. Some of the best chevre in the world comes from artisanal cheese makers with relatively small operations. These artisans may be able to quickly describe the flavor characteristics of each type of cheese, how it is best incorporated into recipes, and even which specific goat provided the milk. Farmers can also answer questions about the condition of the animals, their diet and whether the cheese is created using organic methods and ingredients. For those concerned about animal welfare or environmental health issues, speaking directly with the cheesemaker can answer important questions.
Not all chevre cheese is created equal; many contain different flavoring agents to create a unique taste. Herbed goat cheese can come topped with a light layer of herbs or incorporate herbs such as oregano, basil or chives throughout the cheese. Some goat cheeses may come with fruit or nuts incorporated, making for a unique dessert spread or breakfast cheese. For a beautiful presentation, consider a chevre that has been covered in edible flowers, such as nasturtiums.
When deciding between different types of chevre cheese, it can be helpful to consider which recipes are desired. For salads, spreads and dips, using a soft cheese may be the ideal choice. Pasta dishes, like lasagna, may work best with a semi-soft variety, which has better melting properties. For a truly unique cheeseburger, pizza, or grilled cheese, consider using a firm goat cheese, such as goat’s milk cheddar.
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