How to prepare a cheese board correctly?

How to prepare a cheese board correctly?

Preparing a cheese board is an art that combines careful selection of products, attractive presentation and the ability to highlight the flavours and textures offered by combining different types of cheeses together.

This dish, which is ideal for sharing at gatherings, is a culinary experience that must be prepared following specific steps to be done properly.

We will explain how to prepare a cheese board correctly, with a special focus on the exquisite cheeses of Teruel, which provide a unique and authentic touch.

Cheese selection: The basis of a good board

The key to a perfect cheese board is variety. It's important to include different types of cheeses that vary in flavour, texture and ripeness.

In the case of Teruel cheeses, we have an excellent range to choose from, with different intensities and textures:

  • Tronchón's cheese: This cheese, of medieval origin, is famous for its firm texture and mild but characteristic flavour. Ideal for those who prefer cheeses with a less intense touch.
  • Albarracin's cheese: Known for its complex flavour and medium ripening, this cheese offers a combination of nuances ranging from mild to spicy. It's perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your board.
  • Maestrazgo's goat cheese: Made from goat's milk, this cheese has a creamy texture and intense flavour that contrasts deliciously with milder cheeses.
cheese with herbs
cheese

Quantity and Presentation

For a balanced cheese board, it's a good idea to plan on about 100 grams of cheese per person, divided into several types. If you're preparing a board for four people, consider including about 400 grams of cheese in total, divided between 3 or 4 different varieties.

Presentation is crucial. A wooden board or slate can be great options to highlight the colors and textures of the cheeses.

Arrange the cheeses so that the mildest ones are at the beginning and the most intense ones at the end, following the order in which they should be tasted. Don't forget to label each cheese so that diners know what they are tasting at each moment.

Accompaniments to enhance the flavor

Accompaniments are essential to enhance the flavor of cheeses and offer a balance of textures and flavors in each bite. Here are some suggestions that perfectly complement Teruel cheeses:

  • Nuts: Walnuts and almonds provide a crunchy touch that contrasts wonderfully with the creaminess of the cheeses.
  • Fresh and dried fruits: Figs, grapes, and apples are classic options, while dried fruits such as apricots can offer a natural sweetness that complements saltier cheeses well.
  • Jams and honey: Fig jam or truffle honey are exquisite options to spread on small pieces of cheese, creating an explosion of flavors on the palate.
  • Bread and crackers: A good crusty bread or salty crackers are perfect to accompany cheeses. Nut bread, in particular, is an excellent complement to more intense cheeses.

Finish with a good pairing

A cheese board is not complete without a good pairing. Wine is the traditional accompaniment, and the choice of the type of wine will depend on the cheeses selected. For Teruel cheeses we recommend a pairing with our wines from the region as well:

  • Red wines: A young red wine can be ideal for Queso de Albarracín, complementing its flavour without overwhelming it.
  • White wines: A fresh and fruity white can balance the intensity of Queso de Cabra del Maestrazgo.
  • Sweet wine: For Queso de Tronchón, a sweet wine or even a dessert wine can be an interesting choice, highlighting its smoothness.