Marinated Goat Cheese
Marinated Goat Cheese Recipe - Vegetarian French Cuisine
Introduction
Marinated goat cheese is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a cheese platter. The combination of tangy goat cheese with aromatic herbs and spices makes for a flavorful and unique appetizer or snack.
History
Marinated goat cheese has been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. The process of marinating cheese was originally used as a way to preserve cheese and enhance its flavor. Today, marinated goat cheese is a popular dish in many restaurants and homes.
Ingredients
- 10 small mature goat's milk cheeses
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 10 mixed-color peppercorns
- 4 dried red chilies
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
- 1 sprig of fresh sage
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Extra-virgin olive oil
How to prepare
- In a large sterilized jar with a wide neck, layer the cheese. As you layer the cheese, arrange garlic, peppercorns, chilies, and herbs decoratively between and around the cheese layers. Pour oil over the layers until it reaches the top of the jar. Remove any air pockets by running a skewer down the inside of the jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. Before serving, bring to room temperature.
Variations
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
- Use different types of cheese, such as feta or blue cheese, for a unique flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own flavor combinations.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Use high-quality goat cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Make sure to sterilize the jar before adding the cheese to prevent any bacteria from forming.
- Allow the cheese to come to room temperature before serving to enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve marinated goat cheese on a cheese platter with crackers, bread, and fresh fruit. It can also be crumbled over salads or used as a topping for pizza.
Cooking Techniques
Marinating goat cheese is a simple and easy process that requires minimal cooking. The key is to layer the cheese with herbs and spices in a jar and cover with olive oil.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have goat cheese, you can use feta or another soft cheese. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preferences.
Make Ahead Tips
Marinated goat cheese can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. This makes it a great option for entertaining or meal prep.
Presentation Ideas
Serve marinated goat cheese in a decorative jar or on a cheese board with a variety of accompaniments. Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Marinated goat cheese pairs well with a variety of wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir. It also goes well with crusty bread, fresh fruit, and nuts.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store marinated goat cheese in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving. Do not heat or microwave the cheese.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of marinated goat cheese contains approximately 100 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of marinated goat cheese contains approximately 1 gram of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of marinated goat cheese contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of marinated goat cheese contains approximately 6 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Marinated goat cheese is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D.
Alergens
Marinated goat cheese contains dairy and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Summary
Marinated goat cheese is a delicious and nutritious dish that is high in protein and calcium. It is a great addition to a healthy diet in moderation.
Summary
Marinated goat cheese is a delicious and versatile dish that is easy to make and perfect for entertaining. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a flavorful and unique appetizer that will impress your guests. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Marinated Goat Cheese. It was a sunny afternoon in the bustling streets of Florence, Italy. I was wandering through the local market, my senses overwhelmed by the sights and smells of fresh produce, cheeses, and meats. As I meandered through the stalls, a kind elderly lady caught my eye. She was selling an array of marinated cheeses, each one more tempting than the last.
Intrigued, I approached her stall and struck up a conversation. She told me that her family had been making marinated goat cheese for generations, using a secret blend of herbs and spices passed down from her grandmother. My curiosity piqued, I begged her to share the recipe with me. With a twinkle in her eye, she agreed, on the condition that I promise to cherish and share it with others.
I eagerly jotted down the ingredients and instructions she recited to me, feeling like I had stumbled upon a hidden treasure. That evening, back in my small apartment overlooking the Arno River, I set to work recreating the marinated goat cheese. The aroma of garlic, rosemary, and thyme filled my kitchen, transporting me back to the bustling market in Florence.
As the cheese marinated in a blend of olive oil and herbs, I couldn't resist sneaking a taste. The tangy goat cheese paired perfectly with the earthy flavors of the herbs, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.
Over the years, I have continued to make this marinated goat cheese recipe, adapting and perfecting it to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, always met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that sunny afternoon in Florence and the kind elderly lady who shared her family's secret with me.
Now, as I stand in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the familiar scents of garlic and herbs, I can't help but feel grateful for the connections that food has brought into my life. This recipe for marinated goat cheese is not just a dish to me, but a reminder of the generosity and warmth of the people I have met along my culinary journey.
As I plate the marinated goat cheese, garnishing it with a sprig of fresh rosemary, I can't help but smile. This humble dish holds a special place in my heart, a symbol of the joy and connection that food can bring. And as I take a bite, savoring the creamy cheese and herb-infused oil, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon in Florence, where it all began.
Categories
| Cheese Recipes | French Recipes | Rosemary Recipes | Sage Recipes | Thyme Recipes | Vegetarian Recipes |