ASK THE EXPERTS: tips for creating the perfect cheese platter
Fran Abdallaoui shares tips for creating a delicious cheese platter.
When entertaining, you can’t really go wrong with serving a cheese board. Rule of thumb is to keep it simple. If you are having a really big party, showcase one really stunning cheese like a whole wheel of ripe triple crème brie with very simple accompaniments. For a smaller gathering, it’s nice to have about three or four interesting varieties, each with a point of difference for your guests to try, like an aged cheddar or Tasmanian Heritage Triple Cream brie, Classic Blue and Red Square washed rind (pictured above).
Savvy serving
Serving cheese at the right temperature is important to allow the full flavours to be appreciated. Place the cheeses on the serving board and cover with a clean damp tea towel for up to two hours before serving. This allows the cheese to come to room temperature without drying out. Purchase cheese that is nearing its use-by date, as it will be close to full maturity for enhanced flavour and texture.
Best “briehaviour”
There is such a thing as good cheese etiquette when serving yourself from a communal platter. It’s preferable to cut a small wedge or slice from the centre to the rind. When cutting a soft cheese it can be seen as bad manners to take only from the centre and just leave the rind. It’s also a good idea to provide a couple of small cheese knives, especially if you are serving different types, such as a strong blue, cheddar or a soft goat’s cheese.
Perfect pairings
Ideal accompaniments are simple plain-flavoured crackers, good-quality French bread or lavosh. Fresh fruit like grapes, figs and pears complement the richness of cheese and offer palate cleansing. Dried fruit such as dates or muscatels and nuts or fruit pastes provide textural interest.
Smart storing
To store cheese, wrap each piece in baking paper then in plastic wrap. Store in a covered container in the fridge. If there are leftovers from your cheeseboard, add them to toasties, pasta dishes and omelettes and use within a few days.