Gouda Cheese

Pairings and Complementary Flavors

Cocktails: Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Mojito, Gin and Tonic, White Russian
~ An Old Fashioned presents caramel and vanilla notes which complement the sweetness of Gouda.
~ The whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters in a traditional Manhattan offer a balance of sweetness and bitterness that harmonizes well with the Gouda’s flavor.
~ The fresh taste of mint and lime in a Mojito or a classic Gin and Tonic makes for refreshing and contrasting accompaniments to the Gouda.
~ The combination of vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream in a White Russian echoes the creamy texture of Gouda and enhances its buttery notes, creating an indulgent pairing.

Wine: Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Beaujolais, Pinot Noir
~ Un-oaked or lightly oaked Chardonnay emphasizes the creamy texture of the Gouda, while a Pinot Grigio offers a light, crisp contrast.
~ Sauvignon Blanc with zesty citrus notes provides a refreshing contrast.
~ With its fruity notes, Beaujolais complements the cheese’s mild character, while Pinot Noir, with a light to medium body and red fruit notes, meshes well with Gouda.

Beer: Pilsner, wheat beer, Blonde Ale, Belgian Dubbel
~ The crispness found in a Pilsner cut through the creaminess of Gouda to create a refreshing contrast.
~ The light, spicy, and often fruity profile of a wheat beer complements the mildness of the Gouda.
~ The balanced malt and hop character of a Blonde Ale harmonizes with the cheese’s subtle flavors, while the dark fruit notes in a Belgian Dubbel accentuate the richness of the cheese, making for a decadent pairing.

Accompaniments: Fruit, nuts, bread, crackers, cured meats, sweet condiments, olives, chocolate
~ Apples, pears, grapes, and berries provide a sweet and juicy contrast, while apricots and figs enhance the cheese’s subtle sweetness.
~ Almonds, walnuts, and pecans offer a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that melds well with the creaminess of Gouda.
~ Fresh crusty bread, whole grain, or neutral-flavored crackers make a great base, offering texture and substance.
~ Prosciutto, salami, and ham bring a salty contrast.
~ Fig jam, apricot preserves, berry compote, honey, and maple syrup enhance the cheese’s sweetness.
~ Cornichons or other pickled veggies introduce a tangy element, while olives offer a salty contrast to the creamy texture of Gouda.
~ Dark or milk chocolate can be an interesting and indulgent pairing.

Suggested uses:

Shred it over soup, salad, or a baked potato

A great addition to grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas, pasta dishes, breakfast casseroles, quiche, fondue, or baked goods
~ The crispness found in a Pilsner cut through the creaminess of Gouda to create a refreshing contrast.
~ The light, spicy, and often fruity profile of a wheat beer complements the mildness of the Gouda.
~ The balanced malt and hop character of a Blonde Ale harmonizes with the cheese’s subtle flavors, while the dark fruit notes in a Belgian Dubbel accentuate the richness of the cheese, making for a decadent pairing.

Accompaniments: Fruit, nuts, bread, crackers, cured meats, sweet condiments, olives, chocolate
~ Apples, pears, grapes, and berries provide a sweet and juicy contrast, while apricots and figs enhance the cheese’s subtle sweetness.
~ Almonds, walnuts, and pecans offer a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that melds well with the creaminess of Gouda.
~ Fresh crusty bread, whole grain, or neutral-flavored crackers make a great base, offering texture and substance.
~ Prosciutto, salami, and ham bring a salty contrast.
~ Fig jam, apricot preserves, berry compote, honey, and maple syrup enhance the cheese’s sweetness.
~ Cornichons or other pickled veggies introduce a tangy element, while olives offer a salty contrast to the creamy texture of Gouda.
~ Dark or milk chocolate can be an interesting and indulgent pairing.

Suggested uses:

Shred it over soup, salad, or a baked potato

A great addition to grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas, pasta dishes, breakfast casseroles, quiche, fondue, or baked goods