Fresh goat cheese is made with goat’s milk. The result is a creamy texture, and a tangy flavor. You may hear it referred to as chèvre, which is the French word for goat. At the cheese counter, you can ask for fresh goat cheese or chèvre, the result will be the same–a delicious soft cheese. Spread it on crackers or bread as a substitute for cream cheese. It also makes a great filling for ravioli or melted into a creamy sauce. If you’re looking for a simple meal, make a salad with greens, apple slices, walnuts, a bit of fresh goat cheese, and top it off with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Or, make the classic salad chèvre chaud (chaud is French for hot). Melt a slice of chèvre on a small piece of toasted bread. Then make the same salad as above, and top with the chèvre chaud.  

Cheddar is not only a type of cheese, it is also a technique used to make cheese. Cheddaring is a process of piling up curd slabs to develop the distinctive flavors of traditional cheddar cheese. Some cheddars are full of umami, and taste strong and nutty. Those cheddars usually tend to be more crumbly. Other cheddars are milder with creamy, milky flavors, and softer textures. You can find a cheddar for every occasion whether you are pairing it with sweet or savory foods. Include it in comforting dishes like bisques, grilled cheese sandwiches, and corn grits. For a sweet treat, eat a chunk with a piece of fruit like a ripe pear. For a unique savory snack, pair it with slices of raw red onion and a strong ale.

When Gruyère AOP is wrapped properly in cheese paper, you can count on it lasting for a long time. That is, of course, if you can resist gobbling it all up! The luscious flavor evolves from nutty and buttery when young to caramelized onions as it ages. The texture is firm, yet it melts beautifully when heated. Similarly to cheddar, it goes well with all kinds foods. It creates a wonderful fondue, a dreamy grilled cheese sandwich, and tastes heavenly smothered on roasted vegetables. Shred it on top of apple pie for dessert, or nibble on a chunk as you enjoy a glass of beer or red wine. The possibilities are endless.

In trying times, cooking, enjoying cheese, and learning are at the top of our self-care list. To share this with you, we created an e-book for cheese-lovers. Get your FREE copy of The Cheese-Lover’s Guide to Cooking with Traditional Cheeses. It's full of tips on how to select and buy cheese, 8 Things to Look for in Traditional Cheese , and delightful recipes.

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