Consider yourself a bit of a cheese lover?
We certainly do, which is why we’ve compiled a list of some of the world’s most tasty cheeses. Read on to find out what they are, where they come from and how to use them. We’re pretty confident you might know one or two but how many have you tried?
Roquefort
Originating from France, Roquefort is traditionally made with sheep’s milk. It’s both sharp and tangy in flavour but also very creamy – a favourite for lovers of true blue cheese. Be warned though; this one is known for its pungent smell. Enjoy alongside figs, nuts and quince paste or on some freshly baked crusty bread.
Parmigiano Reggiano:
Although most commonly referred to as Parmesan cheese, Parmigiano Reggiano is produced in select regions throughout Europe – the provinces of Parma, Reggio Emilia and Modena. Traditionally produced from cow’s milk, this popular cheese is hard, granulated and crumbly in texture with a strong flavour. Aside from shaving or grating over pasta and salads, you can melt Parmesan into sauces and soups or even just as a snack – we won’t tell.
Mozzarella
Typically known for its starring role on pizza, mozzarella is an Italian cheese made from buffalo milk. Eaten fresh, this stringy white cheese is delicious no matter how you have it. Melt it over meatballs, add it to your lasagna – it’s also great in salads and sandwiches.
Brie
A popular French dessert cheese traditionally made using unpasteurised cow’s milk, brie has an ever-so-slightly furry rind and a deliciously smooth and creamy texture inside that’s sure to win you over every time. We suggest serving at room temperature with lavosh and some crusty bread but for something extra special, pair with a glass of Champagne!
Cheddar
Heralding from the village of Cheddar in England, Cheddar cheese is made across the globe using cow’s milk. During maturation, Cheddar transforms from hard and smooth to dry and crumbly, and because of its versatility it can be bought at both stages of maturation. We love it in cheese burgers! Here’s a fun fact: Cheddar is traditionally off-white in colour so if you come across any orange varieties, it usually means food colouring has been added.
Chèvre
A delicious goat’s milk cheese from France, this is another cheese that is eaten fresh and features a deliciously smooth, creamy texture. Often combined with herb and garlic, Chèvre is best enjoyed with a glass of Rosé but also adds a bold flavour element to pastas and salads.
Emmental
Originating from Switzerland, Emmental is the famous Swiss cheese – the one with all the holes! But, did you know these holes are actually gas bubbles formed by bacteria during the fermentation process? True story. Swiss is another cheese that is ideal for melting and is super popular for toasted sandwiches, sauces and even cheese fondue.
Feta
Made from a combination of sheep and goat’s milk, feta cheese originates from Greece and is often stored in a salty brine. Ranging from decadently smooth, creamy textures to a crumbly, dry and very salty cheese, this one is beautiful crumbled over salads, on cheese plates and even with scrambled eggs.
Taleggio
Taleggio is a semi-soft washed-rind Italian cheese made from cow’s milk. Despite its strong smell, the flavour is mild with a slight tang. It’s perfect paired with a bold Chardonnay or a Merlot. Try this recipe for a pumpkin and taleggio tart.
