master-cooks | The Important Thing To Remember When Adding Stinky Cheeses To Your Charcuterie Board

When adding stinky cheeses to your charcuterie board, it's crucial to balance bold flavors with milder options to create a harmonious tasting experience. Start by selecting a variety of textures and intensities to cater to different palates. Stinky cheeses, known for their strong aromas and robust flavors, can be quite overpowering, so it's important to position them thoughtfully on the board. Consider placing them at the edge or in a dedicated section to prevent their scents from overwhelming subtler items. Pair these cheeses with complementary accompaniments such as crisp crackers, sweet fruits like grapes or figs, and tangy pickles, which can help balance their intense flavors. Additionally, ensure that you have a separate knife for each cheese to avoid cross-contamination of flavors. Timing also plays a role; allow the cheeses to reach room temperature before serving, as this enhances their flavors and textures. Finally, be considerate of your guests' preferences by offering a description of each cheese, including its origin and taste profile, which can encourage them to explore and appreciate the diverse offerings. By thoughtfully curating your charcuterie board, you can create an inviting and memorable tasting experience that celebrates the unique character of stinky cheeses.

Getting into the stinky specifics

With a plethora of pungent cheeses and accompaniments available, it can be challenging to know where to begin. Fortunately, Molly Browne has some expert recommendations. "One of my favorite combinations is Widmer's Aged Brick paired with whole grain mustard, country ham, and a cornichon." While each of these components would be delicious alongside a strong cheese, she notes, "together, they create an extraordinary experience." Widmer's Aged Brick is a particularly robust cheese — the Wisconsin Cheese Mart even advises potential buyers to proceed with caution if they're unfamiliar with its intensity — which sounds like a perfect choice for those looking to spice up their charcuterie board.

If you prefer a sweeter option, Browne suggests pairing Chalet Cheese Limburger, "the undisputed champion of stinky cheeses," with a quality strawberry jam. "Surprisingly, it pairs wonderfully!" she adds. Blue cheese is another excellent starting point, as the variety is vast; you could focus on a fun charcuterie taste test to discover your favorite. Include milder, more universally appealing options like Gorgonzola dolce, alongside bold choices like Stilton.

No matter which stinky cheese you choose for your board, it's essential to complement it with contrasting flavors and textures. Consider including the following elements: zesty, acidic condiments like pickles; fresh and dried fruits; sweet, sticky jams; soft breads; crunchy crackers; and rich meats (such as wagyu beef) or savory cured meats (like prosciutto and salami). Combine these with some delightfully pungent cheese, and you'll create a truly remarkable charcuterie board.

The Important Thing To Remember When Adding Stinky Cheeses To Your Charcuterie Board

Getting into the stinky specifics

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