Savoie is renowned for its mountainous landscape and its alpine cheeses. And Savoyard cheeses do not get much more spectacular than Beaufort. Read on to learn about this iconic French mountain cheese.
What is Beaufort?
Beaufort cheese is a pressed cooked cheese that comes from Savoie in the Rhône-Alpes region of France. For generations, local cheesemakers have used the raw milk of local Tarentaise and Abondance cows to craft this incredible cheese. Unsurprisingly, those breeds of cattle that are known for their high-quality milk.
Thanks to the milk and cheesemakers’ craft, Beaufort cheese is one of France’s most sought-after cheeses. While Beaufort is spectacular all year-round, you will want to try to catch the batches made using summer milk, aptly named Beaufort d’Été.
How is Beaufort made?
Beaufort cheese is made using a process that is similar to that used to make other Alpine cheeses. As always, the process begins with the cheesemaker gently heating the freshly delivered raw milk.
Afterwards, they add rennet to bring about coagulation. Then, they transfer the newly formed curds into the signature large moulds with a concave edge.
Once the curds have formed into a solid cheese, they are placed into a saltwater brine, which helps to preserve the cheese and give it its characteristic salty flavour.
After a few days in the brine, they remove the cheese wheels and allow them to dry. Finally, an affineur will age the cheese for several months, during which time it is regularly turned and wiped to ensure that it develops a uniform texture and flavour.
Flavour profile
As for its taste, Beaufort cheese has a rich, nutty flavour that is slightly sweet and slightly savoury. Moreover, the cheese has a smooth and creamy texture, which makes it ideal for slicing, grating, and melting.
Some people describe the flavour of Beaufort cheese as being similar to that of Comté cheese. However, Beaufort is typically a bit more robust and complex.
Serving guide
When it comes to pairings, Beaufort cheese is best enjoyed with full-bodied white wines, such as a Chardonnay or a Viognier. The cheese is also great with beer, and can be enjoyed with a Wheat Beer or a fruity Lager.
Additionally, Beaufort cheese can be paired with nuts and fruit, such as walnuts, pears, and dried apricots.
Also, the cheese is delicious when used in cooking, and can be melted over vegetables, grilled meats, and potatoes. One traditional local dish that celebrates this pressed cheese is Fondue Savoyarde.
Alternatives to Beaufort
While Beaufort is definitely a unique cheese, it can be tricky to source outside of its native France. If you’re looking for a similar experience, Comté, Gruyère or Emmentaler are three great options that are a bit more accessible.
Thank you for reading
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