Ghost Pepper Monterey Jack Cheese

Pairings and Complementary Flavors

Cocktails: Margarita, Bloody Mary, Gin and Tonic, Moscow Mule, Whiskey Sour
~ The tartness of lime in a classic Margarita helps to cut through the heat of the cheese while the tequila stands up well to the cheese’s flavors.
~ The rich, savory flavors of Bloody Mary complement this cheese’s fiery quality.
~ A Gin and Tonic with botanical flavors and a refreshing profile offers a soothing counterbalance to the heat of the ghost peppers.
~ Similarly, the tartness of lemon and the sweet-sour balance of a Whiskey Sour cocktail cuts through the ghost pepper’s heat.
~ The ginger beer and zesty lime in a Moscow Mule provide a refreshing contrast.

Wine: Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Zinfandel, Chenin Blanc, Moscato
~ The aromatic nature of Gewürztraminer, known for its sweetness and floral notes, helps balance the heat from the ghost peppers.
~ A slightly sweet, off-dry Riesling with its high acidity and fruity notes helps temper the cheese’s spice.
~ A robust, fruity Zinfandel holds its own against the spicy cheese.
~ A medium-bodied, sweet version of Chenin Blanc provides a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the cheese, while the sweetness and light fruity flavor of Moscato offers a nice counterbalance to the fiery heat.

Beer: IPA, wheat beer, Saison, fruit beer, Stout
~ A hoppy IPA stands up to the heat of the ghost pepper. The beer’s malt backbone balances out the intense flavors.
~ The light, often citrusy, notes of a wheat beer provide a refreshing contrast, while Saison, known for its fruity and spicy notes, complements the cheese flavors.
~ Fruit beers offer a sweet counterpoint to the heat of the ghost pepper.
~ A rich, robust Stout stands up to the powerful flavor of the cheese with its natural sweetness, balancing the heat.

Accompaniments: bread, crackers, tortilla chips, fruit, nuts, honey, pickles
~ Neutral breads or crackers allow the spicy flavor of the cheese to shine and provide a base that helps moderate the cheese’s heat.
~ The crunchy texture and corn flavor of tortilla chips complement the cheese’s warmth.
~ Mangoes, pineapples, apples, pears, or grapes provide a sweet and juicy contrast to the spice of the cheese.
~ Almonds or walnuts complement the creamy texture and provide a bit of respite from the cheese’s flavors, while honey provides a sweet counterpoint to the fiery heat.
~ The tart and vinegary bite of pickled vegetables or pickles is a great contrast to the spiciness of the cheese.

Suggested uses:

It makes a terrific addition to cheese boards, especially for those who love heat. Be sure to warn your guests!

Wonderful for creating spicy cheese soup, macaroni and cheese, spicy cheese dip, or as an addition to burgers, tacos, quesadillas, pizza, or grilled cheese.