European Cheeses During the Holiday Season: A Journey of Gourmet Delights

Introduction to Holiday Season Cheeses

During the holiday season, whether it's a gathering of family, friends, or simply a cozy dinner at home, the choice of cheese can elevate any meal. From traditional European favorites to homemade delicacies, the variety of cheese options is truly diverse. Here, we explore some of the most delightful and popular choices, explaining why they are cherished during festive times.

European Cheeses I Love

When it comes to certain European cheeses, my favorites from my time studying in France include:

Epoisse: A potent and creamy cheese that's simply amazing, often referred to as "the cheese that kills!." Mont D'Or: Another robust and rich cheese with a smooth, buttery texture.

In addition to these, I also enjoy:

Comté Beaufort Mimolette

But let's not forget about the Greek cheese favorites:

Imported Feta: A firm and creamy cheese, though it can sometimes be hard to find. Kasseri: Another popular Greek cheese with a mild flavor. Kefalotyri and Graviera: These cheeses are usually available at the local supermarket, offering a slightly firmer texture.

For those with a fondness for blue cheeses, I often enjoy:

Gorgonzola Danish Blue Roquefort Blue D’Auvergne

Festive Cheeses for Family Gatherings

During the holiday season, when family comes together, here are the cheeses we typically stock up on:

Mont d'Or: Known for its mellow, nutty flavor. Raclette: Perfect for melting and serving side dishes like potatoes and pickles. Tartiflette: A hearty and comforting dish featuring Reblochon cheese, potatoes, onions, and lardons. Reblochon: A soft, creamy cheese with a buttery texture, often served melted over potatoes or apples. Conté: Another soft cheese that pairs well with other dishes. Brie: A classic choice for its smooth and milky flavor.

These cheeses are not only delicious but also versatile, fitting into various holiday meals and occasions.

Homemade Christmas Cheer: Ricotta and Trían

For those who enjoy homemade delights, here are a couple of special cheeses I create:

Ricotta: While technically not a cheese, it's a must-have. It adds a creamy texture and a rich, milky flavor to dishes, especially when made into cheesecake. The remaining portions, if not used, tend to vanish quickly, especially during family gatherings.

Trían: This is a fresh, 3-milk farmer’s cheese made from raw goat, cow, and sheep milk, combined with animal rennet and salt. The consistency of Trían depends on the ratio of milks used. For instance, a heavier goat milk content results in a crumbled texture suitable for salads or cooked dishes, while a higher sheep milk content can be strained into balls for a chocolate companion.

In addition to these, the whey left from making these cheeses is valuable and can be used to make pie crusts and quick breads. This is particularly useful during the holiday season when there's an abundance of cheese-making activities.

Brie: One of the most foolproof choices, Brie is always available and delicious. During the holidays, at least one Brie from Latteria Moro di Moro is usually present. Sergio Moro, a master cheesemaker from the Veneto region, is known for his unique techniques, making each cheese distinct and amazing.

Other special holiday cheeses include:

Ubriaco Pinot Rosén: A special cheese soaked in sparkling rosé Pinot Grigio and topped with rose petals. Oro Italiano: A semi-firm cheese infused with saffron d’Aquila and black truffles, perfect for ringing in the New Year!

Conclusion

The holiday season is a fantastic time to indulge in the remarkable variety of European cheeses. From traditional favorites to homemade delights, these cheeses not only enhance the feast but also bring a sense of joy and togetherness to family gatherings. Whether you're serving classic favorites or experimenting with new recipes, the holiday season is a wonderful opportunity to savor the flavors of Europe.