Kawau Bay Kitchen Chef Pro-Tip: How to create a Sexy Cheese Platter
With backyards full of friends and family, an essential addition to any summer soirée is a big sexy cheese platter. Have it as an appetiser to the main or as a hors d’oeuvres, a beautiful platter delights the cheese lovers and provides a little adventure for the taste buds. No cheeseboard is ever the same, so enjoy the process of finding the right combination of cheeses with your personal brand using these expert tips.
The Cheese
The best route is to pick three to five types of cheese. Think about the shape, colour and texture so that you provide a nice variety for your guests.
Soft cheese – Camembert and Brie are favourites on any cheeseboard, and there is so much diversity; rich, indulgent and creamy. The cheese itself is usually very soft, creamy, and sometimes buttery or tangy. The longer it ages, the runnier and more delicious the centre becomes.
Hard cheese – Think aged Cheddar, Gouda, Parmesan and Emmental. The longer a cheese ages, the harder and crumblier the texture becomes. They tend to be saltier and full of great flavour. But remember: aged cheese packs a punch, don’t over do it.
Blue cheese – Blue cheese has many flavour profiles – from the strong and feisty to the sweet and creamy, a little blue goes a long way.
Fresh cheese – Mozzarella, feta, ricotta, or mascarpone fall in this category and add a fresh light flavour. Milk-white, creamy and very mild, fresh cheeses are a welcome contrast to the other cheeses with their big personalities.
The Accompaniment
Behind every successful cheeseboard is a delicious range of accompaniments. Going beyond crackers or bread, these additions allow the cheese to be enjoyed in different ways.
Fruit – Grapes are the go-to standard, not only are they a delicious pairing but they are a colourful way to decorate the platter. Pears, apples, dried apricots or figs provide additional ways to delight your guests.
Deli meats – A variety is best here, to suit everyone’s tastes. Ham, salami and prosciutto are always crowd pleasers. You could also try some smoked chicken, turkey or salmon slices if you’re looking for something different.
Condiments – Chutneys, pastes, pickled onions, sun dried tomatoes or gherkins. Any preserves that are either sweet or tart will do the trick. Honeycomb or candied nuts are other delightful additions.
Olives – you just can’t go wrong with olives. Green, black, stuffed or not, good olives are a sure win.
