Sometimes, Valentine's day is synonymous with last minute stops at the corner pharmacy for a box of chocolates and an oversized stuffed bear. With a little bit of planning though, the day can be full of thoughtfulness, gratitude and love. What better way to show your special someone you care than by spending quality time together, making something delicious, in the comfort of your own home.
Step 1: Choose your board
Slate, marble, and wood boards make a beautiful and natural stage for your star ingredients. If we had to choose our favorite, we would lean towards a nice slate board simply because you can write on them. Labels can help guide your culinary experience.
Step 2: Choose your cheese
Where to begin?! Cheese offers us limitless flavors, textures, colors and aromas. We suggest heading over to your local cheese monger. If you happen to be fortunate enough to have a cheese shop in your area like Orman’s Cheese Shop like we have here in Charlotte, this should be your first stop. These experts will help guide you in the right direction. If the supermarket is your only option, worry not. Just head to the cheese department at your local grocer and ask the cheese monger for his/her advice.
For expert status, you may want to choose one cheese from each of the following categories:
Aged (example: Aged Cheddar, Goat Gouda)
Soft: (example: Feta, Camembert, Brie, or Mozzarella)
Firm: (example: Manchego, Parmesan, Parmigiano-Reggiano.)
Blue: (example: Gorgonzola Dolce, Valdeón, Stilton.)
Step 3: Choose your toppings and spreads
While a good cheese is delicious on it’s own, the correct pairing can make the tasting experience truly special. Olives, nuts, jams, and fruit all make beautiful accompaniments but we are a little biased to the ones below…
· Traditional Wildflower Honey
Step 4: Choose your vehicle
Keep it simple. You don’t want anything to overshadow your cheese. We suggest a fresh baked baguette, crackers, sliced apple, cauliflower, broccoli, and carrots. Anything with a nice snappy crunch would be a good start.
The possibilities are endless! Share your creations on Instagram and Facebook with #CheeseformyHoney and tag @CloisterHoney!
For more pairing ideas, head over to The Little Epicurean. Photo credit goes to: Savor Style Co - @savor_style
Sign up for the latest recipes, discounts and more
© 2024 Cloister Honey
