Does eating Brie cheese leave the outer rind on the plate? Many people prefer to eat this delicious cheese in all its glory, from the creamy middle to the hard, crunchy rind. But some eat the rind while others don’t. In the end, it all comes down to individual preference.
Brie is a soft cheese made of cow’s milk that’s typically aged from two weeks to a month. The edible rind that covers the cheese is made up of a white, velvety mold called penicillium camemberti. This unique and flavorful rind gives Brie an interesting texture and unique flavor, much like a young Camembert cheese. Depending on how long the cheese has been aged, the rind tastes either slightly acidic or nutty.
Experts say whether you should or should not eat Brie’s rind is a matter of personal taste. The cheese tastes great without the rind, but if you love the nuttiness of Brie, then the rind will only add to your experience. Eating the rind not only boosts the flavor but can also make it easier to spread the cheese onto bread and crackers.
Just like with other soft cheeses, it’s important to remember that eating Brie rind isn’t without its risks. Since the rind is made up of penicillium, some people are allergic to this mold and should avoid eating it.
Eating the rind can also depend on how the cheese was produced. If it’s a homemade cheese, it may not have been aged properly and might have a bitter flavor. Similarly, store-bought Brie may not be aged the same way as artisan-made Brie and the rind could have a sour taste. As with any food, it’s always best to start with a small bite to test the flavor first, before going in for a bigger bite.
Ultimately, the decision to eat the Brie rind comes down to personal taste. The most important thing to remember is that the rind has different flavors than the rest of the cheese. If you know you like the rind, feel free to enjoy it and reap the rewards of full-flavored Brie.
Health Benefits
Although not confirmed, eating Brie rind may have some health benefits. Studies have found that some molds, such as those found on the Brie rind, can act as a natural antibiotic and may be beneficial to the health of your gut.
The probiotics in Brie are thought to help prevent certain illnesses and reduce inflammation in the body. Eating a small amount of Brie rind may help your body absorb the probiotics more quickly than if you were to eat the cheese without the rind.
The rind may also contain beneficial minerals and vitamins such as Vitamin K, phosphorus, and magnesium. While eating Brie rind in large amounts is likely not recommended due to its high fat content, eating a small piece of rind paired with the creamy cheese center may be beneficial.
Taste Difference
In contrast to the soft, creamy cheese found in the center of the Brie, the rind is texturally and taste-wise very different. Adding a bit of Brie rind to a sandwich or wrap can give it a peppery, nutty, and slightly bitter flavor.
The rind also adds a delightful crunch that pairs nicely with the creamy center of the Brie. Hence, its texture can go a long way in enriching the overall taste of a Brie-based dish. Many people love that delightful contrast between the crunch of the rind and the soft, melty center.
Serving Suggestions
There are many creative ways to serve Brie. The classic and most popular way of enjoying Brie is on a cheese or charcuterie board. You can also top a piece of Brie with honey and nuts and bake in the oven for a gooey, savory meal. Brie rind is also used as a topping for salads and wraps or added to French onion soup for a creamy flavor.
Brie is also used to give dishes an extra boost of flavor. It can be melted in a quesadilla, grilled into a cheese sandwich, added to mac and cheese, and even melted in mashed potatoes. Whether you choose to enjoy the rind or not, the possibilities of creating delicious dishes with Brie are endless.
Politics Behind Production
Like with any food, there are politics at play when it comes to where Brie is produced and who is allowed to produce it. The cheese is regulated by the French government; in fact, Brie can’t be legally called Brie unless it has been produced in certain parts of France.
The French government regulates the production of Brie by controlling what raw materials can be used, how the cheese should be aged, and the amount of cheese produced per region. This is done to ensure the quality of the Brie remains high and consistent. As a result, artisan cheese makers have to pay close attention to the laws and regulations in order to produce high-quality Brie.
The tight control of Brie’s production has resulted in a unique and flavorful product that has been enjoyed for many years. It’s a cheese brimming with culture, history, and politics – which all come together to create an exquisite delicacy.
Cheese and Wine Pairings
When it comes to finding a great cheese and wine pairing for Brie, it pays to keep in mind its creamy texture and mild flavors. To bring out the taste of creamy Brie, it’s best to pair it with a white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. For a bit of added sweetness, a Riesling or Gewurztraminer would be a great pairing.
For red wine lovers, a light-bodied red such as a Pinot Noir or Beaujolais could be a great complement for a mild Brie. You can also try a Cabernet Franc or Merlot for added structure and complexity. Whichever wine you choose, it should be served slightly chilled to bring out its unique flavor profiles.
In addition to cheese and wine pairings, you can also try out different recipes and pairings with Brie. Some examples include spreading the cheese on a crusty loaf of bread, serving it with fresh fruits, and adding it to a salad or wrap. Just remember to take a small taste first before you dive in.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the decision to eat the Brie rind is up to personal preference. Whether it’s a matter of taste or health concerns, it’s important to understand the background behind the production of Brie and to take into consideration the different flavors and textures it can bring to a dish. Lastly, don’t forget to indulge in delicious pairings, such as cheese and wine, and let your taste buds experience the wonderful world of Brie.
