Beyond the Salad: A Deep Dive into Blue Cheese and Delectable Recipes
Blue cheese. The mere mention of it can elicit strong reactions. Some recoil in disgust, associating it with pungent aromas and an acquired taste. Others, however, are captivated by its bold, complex flavor profile, its creamy texture, and its versatility in the kitchen. This article is for both camps – those curious about blue cheese and those already devoted – offering a comprehensive guide to understanding, selecting, and cooking with this fascinating ingredient.
What is Blue Cheese? A Moldy Masterpiece
At its core, blue cheese is a type of cheese made from cow’s, goat’s, or sheep’s milk that has had cultures of *Penicillium* mold added to it. These molds are what give blue cheese its characteristic blue or green veins, its distinctive aroma, and its sharp, tangy flavor. The cheesemaking process involves creating curds, draining the whey, and then introducing the *Penicillium* mold, either by adding it to the milk, spraying it onto the curds, or injecting it into the cheese during the aging process. After that the cheese will be pierced to allow oxygen to penetrate inside and activate the mold. Airflow is crucial for the mold to grow and thrive. The cheese is then aged in a controlled environment, allowing the mold to develop and impart its unique flavor.
The Science Behind the Stink (and the Flavor)
The characteristic aroma of blue cheese comes from a combination of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced by the *Penicillium* mold. These compounds include ketones, aldehydes, and esters, which contribute to the cheese’s pungent, earthy, and sometimes even ammonia-like smell. Don’t let the aroma deter you, though! These same compounds are also responsible for the cheese’s complex flavor, which can range from sharp and salty to creamy and sweet, depending on the type of blue cheese.
A World of Blue: Exploring Different Varieties
The world of blue cheese is vast and diverse, with each variety offering a unique flavor profile and texture. Here are some of the most popular and widely available types:
* **Roquefort:** Arguably the king of blue cheeses, Roquefort is made exclusively from sheep’s milk in Roquefort-sur-Soulzon, France. It’s known for its strong, pungent flavor, crumbly texture, and intense blue veining. Roquefort has a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, meaning that only cheese made in this specific region can be called Roquefort.
* **Gorgonzola:** This Italian blue cheese comes in two main types: Gorgonzola Dolce (sweet) and Gorgonzola Piccante (sharp). Gorgonzola Dolce is creamier and milder in flavor, while Gorgonzola Piccante is firmer, more pungent, and has a more pronounced blue veining. Gorgonzola is made from cow’s milk.
* **Stilton:** A classic English blue cheese made from cow’s milk, Stilton is known for its smooth, creamy texture, rich flavor, and characteristic cylindrical shape. It has a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status.
* **Danish Blue (Danablu):** This blue cheese is made from cow’s milk and is known for its sharp, salty flavor and creamy texture. It’s a good option for those who find Roquefort too strong.
* **Bleu d’Auvergne:** A French blue cheese made from cow’s milk, Bleu d’Auvergne is known for its creamy texture, pungent aroma, and slightly spicy flavor. It has a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status.
* **Maytag Blue:** An American blue cheese made from cow’s milk in Iowa, Maytag Blue is known for its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and crumbly consistency. It was created by the Maytag family (of appliance fame) and is a great example of high-quality American blue cheese.
Choosing the Right Blue: A Guide to Selection
When selecting blue cheese, there are several factors to consider:
* **Appearance:** Look for cheese with even distribution of blue or green veins. Avoid cheese with excessive mold growth on the surface, as this can indicate that it’s past its prime.
* **Aroma:** The aroma should be pungent but not overly ammonia-like. A strong ammonia smell can indicate that the cheese is too old.
* **Texture:** The texture will vary depending on the type of blue cheese. Some varieties, like Roquefort, are crumbly, while others, like Gorgonzola Dolce, are creamy. Choose a texture that appeals to you.
* **Taste:** If possible, sample the cheese before buying it. The flavor should be balanced, with a combination of sharp, salty, and creamy notes. Avoid cheese that tastes overly bitter or sour.
* **Source:** Buy your blue cheese from a reputable cheese shop or grocery store. The cheese should be stored properly, wrapped tightly, and kept refrigerated.
Storage Secrets: Keeping Your Blue Fresh
Proper storage is essential for preserving the flavor and texture of blue cheese. Here are some tips:
* **Wrap it tightly:** Wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or beeswax wrap to prevent it from drying out and absorbing odors from the refrigerator.
* **Store it in the refrigerator:** Store the cheese in the coldest part of the refrigerator, ideally in the cheese drawer or a container.
* **Use it promptly:** Blue cheese is best consumed within a week or two of purchase. Over time, it can dry out and lose its flavor.
* **Freezing (not recommended):** Freezing blue cheese is generally not recommended, as it can alter the texture and flavor. However, if you must freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Use it in cooked dishes rather than serving it fresh.
Blue Cheese in the Kitchen: Culinary Creations
Blue cheese is incredibly versatile in the kitchen, adding a burst of flavor to a wide variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:
* **Salads:** The classic pairing! Crumble blue cheese over salads with bitter greens like arugula or radicchio. It also pairs well with fruits like pears, apples, and grapes. Try a salad with mixed greens, blue cheese, candied pecans, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
* **Dressings and Dips:** Blue cheese dressing is a staple for salads and wings. You can also make a delicious blue cheese dip for vegetables or chips. Combine crumbled blue cheese with mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, and herbs like chives or parsley.
* **Pasta Dishes:** Add crumbled blue cheese to pasta dishes for a creamy, tangy flavor. It pairs well with creamy sauces, vegetables like broccoli or spinach, and meats like steak or chicken. Try a creamy blue cheese sauce with gnocchi and walnuts.
* **Pizza and Flatbreads:** Sprinkle blue cheese over pizza or flatbreads for a gourmet touch. It pairs well with caramelized onions, roasted vegetables, and meats like prosciutto or sausage.
* **Burgers and Sandwiches:** Top your burgers and sandwiches with crumbled blue cheese for a bold flavor. It pairs well with bacon, avocado, and caramelized onions.
* **Steak and Meat Dishes:** Serve blue cheese sauce or crumbled blue cheese with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or pork chops. The sharpness of the cheese complements the richness of the meat.
* **Vegetable Dishes:** Add blue cheese to vegetable dishes for a flavorful twist. It pairs well with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and cauliflower.
* **Soups:** Stir crumbled blue cheese into creamy soups like potato soup or broccoli soup for a tangy flavor boost.
* **Desserts:** Blue cheese can even be used in desserts! Try pairing it with honey and walnuts on crackers or making a blue cheese cheesecake.
Recipe Ideas: From Simple to Sophisticated
Here are some detailed recipes to get you started on your blue cheese culinary adventure:
1. Pear and Blue Cheese Salad with Candied Pecans
**Ingredients:**
* 6 oz Mixed Greens (arugula, spinach, radicchio)
* 2 Pears, thinly sliced
* 4 oz Blue Cheese, crumbled (Roquefort or Gorgonzola Dolce)
* 1/2 cup Candied Pecans
**For the Balsamic Vinaigrette:**
* 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar
* 1/2 cup Olive Oil
* 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
* 1 tbsp Honey
* Salt and Pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Make the Candied Pecans:** If you don’t have pre-made candied pecans, you can make your own. In a saucepan, combine 1/2 cup pecans, 1/4 cup sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar melts and coats the pecans. Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and let them cool completely.
2. **Prepare the Balsamic Vinaigrette:** In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced pears, crumbled blue cheese, and candied pecans.
4. **Dress the Salad:** Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the salad immediately for the best flavor and texture.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other fruits like grapes or apples.
* Use different types of nuts like walnuts or almonds.
* Substitute maple syrup for honey in the vinaigrette.
* Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier salad.
2. Creamy Blue Cheese Pasta with Broccoli
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb Pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
* 1 head Broccoli, cut into florets
* 4 tbsp Butter
* 2 cloves Garlic, minced
* 1 cup Heavy Cream
* 4 oz Blue Cheese, crumbled (Gorgonzola Dolce or Danish Blue)
* 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
* Salt and Pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Steam or Boil the Broccoli:** Steam or boil the broccoli florets until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
3. **Make the Blue Cheese Sauce:** In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. **Add the Cream and Blue Cheese:** Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and add the crumbled blue cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. **Combine the Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce:** Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the blue cheese sauce. Toss to combine.
6. **Add Parmesan Cheese:** Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
7. **Season to Taste:** Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra crumbled blue cheese and Parmesan cheese if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein.
* Use different vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* Substitute goat cheese for blue cheese.
3. Blue Cheese Burgers with Caramelized Onions
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 lbs Ground Beef
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* 4 Burger Buns
* 4 oz Blue Cheese, crumbled (Stilton or Maytag Blue)
* 1 large Onion, thinly sliced
* 2 tbsp Olive Oil
* 1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
**Instructions:**
1. **Caramelize the Onions:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and caramelized, about 20-30 minutes. Stir in the balsamic vinegar during the last few minutes of cooking. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Burger Patties:** In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with salt and pepper. Form the mixture into 4 burger patties.
3. **Grill or Pan-Fry the Burgers:** Grill the burger patties over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked to your desired doneness. Alternatively, you can pan-fry the burgers in a skillet over medium heat.
4. **Assemble the Burgers:** Place the cooked burger patties on the burger buns. Top with crumbled blue cheese and caramelized onions.
5. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the burgers immediately, with your favorite toppings and sides.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add bacon, avocado, or lettuce to the burgers.
* Use different types of cheese like cheddar or Swiss.
* Grill the burger buns for a toasty flavor.
* Serve with a side of sweet potato fries or onion rings.
4. Blue Cheese and Walnut Crostini with Honey
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
* 2 tbsp Olive Oil
* 4 oz Blue Cheese, crumbled (Roquefort or Gorgonzola Dolce)
* 1/2 cup Walnuts, toasted and chopped
* Honey, for drizzling
**Instructions:**
1. **Toast the Baguette Slices:** Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the baguette slices with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly toasted.
2. **Assemble the Crostini:** Spread crumbled blue cheese on each toasted baguette slice. Top with chopped walnuts.
3. **Drizzle with Honey:** Drizzle honey over the crostini.
4. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the crostini immediately as an appetizer or snack.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of nuts like pecans or almonds.
* Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
* Substitute goat cheese for blue cheese.
* Balsamic glaze can be used in place of honey.
Pairing Blue Cheese: A Symphony of Flavors
Pairing blue cheese with complementary foods and beverages can elevate the dining experience. Here are some suggestions:
* **Wine:** Sweet wines like Sauternes or Port pair well with strong blue cheeses like Roquefort. Red wines with fruit forward flavors also complement blue cheese.
* **Fruit:** Pears, apples, grapes, and figs are excellent pairings for blue cheese. The sweetness of the fruit balances the sharpness of the cheese.
* **Nuts:** Walnuts, pecans, and almonds pair well with blue cheese, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
* **Honey:** A drizzle of honey adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavor of blue cheese.
* **Crackers:** Serve blue cheese with simple crackers or crusty bread.
* **Beer:** Stout and other dark beers can also pair nicely with blue cheese.
Conclusion: Embrace the Blue
Blue cheese, while sometimes intimidating, is a culinary treasure waiting to be discovered. With its diverse range of flavors and textures, it offers endless possibilities in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, don’t be afraid to experiment with blue cheese and explore its unique potential. From salads and pasta dishes to burgers and desserts, blue cheese can add a touch of sophistication and flavor to any meal. So, embrace the blue and embark on a delicious culinary adventure!