Habanero Monterey Jack Cheese

Pairings and Complementary Flavors 

Cocktails. Margarita, Gin & Tonic, Bloody Mary, Paloma, Mango Habanero Margarita
~ The citrusy notes and lime in a traditional Margarita can help balance the spiciness of the habanero.
~ The botanicals in a classic Gin and tonic offer refreshment, cooling down the heat from the cheese.
~ The savory tomato base and spicy kick of a Bloody Mary complement the cheese’s flavor, while a Paloma with grapefruit juice, lime, and tequila can be a refreshing counterpoint.
~ Additionally, the tropical and spicy notes in a Mango Habanero Margarita offer a refreshing and harmonious pairing.

Wine: Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Rosé, Chenin Blanc, Zinfandel, Prosecco
~ Gewürztraminer, with its slightly sweet profile and pronounced fruitiness, helps balance the heat of the habanero peppers.
~ An off-dry Riesling with high acidity and fruity notes can help tame the heat.
~ A crisp, refreshing Rosé with fruity notes is a pleasant refreshment that doesn’t overshadow the cheese’s flavor.
~ With high acidity and a range of fruity and honeyed notes, Chenin Blanc offers a versatile partner.
~ In contrast, a fruity Zinfandel with a hint of spiciness can harmonize with the habanero in the cheese.
~ Prosecco, with its bubbles and effervescence, mellows out the heat.

Beer: Wheat Beer, IPA, Saison, Lager, Stout, Fruit Beer
~ The lightness and slight citrus notes in Wheat Beer offer a refreshing counterbalance to the spiciness of the cheese.
~ The bitterness and citrusy hop flavors in an IPA can complement the heat of the habanero peppers.
~ An effervescent and slightly fruity Saison can be a versatile pairing for the cheese.
~ A crisp, clean Lager mellows out the spiciness of the cheese, while the contrasting pairing of a sweet, creamy Stout with its roasted chocolate flavors balances the heat of the cheese.
~ Fruit Beers add a sweet contrast that helps mitigate the heat of the habanero to create a harmonious pairing.

Accompaniments: crackers, fruits, vegetables, meats, nuts, sweet condiments, dark chocolate
~ Neutral or slightly seasoned crackers and baguette slices allow the cheese flavors to shine.
~ Apple, pear, or grapes are a refreshing counterbalance, while dried fruits can add a sweet chewiness.
~ Prosciutto or salami pairs well with spicy cheese, while smoked salmon can balance the heat.
~ Roasted almonds, cashews, or pumpkin seeds add a delightful crunch.
~ Mango chutney, apple compote, or honey offer sweetness to counterbalance the heat of the habanero.
~ Dark chocolate provides an interesting match when paired with this spicy cheese.

Suggested uses:

Provides a spicy element to charcuterie boards

Brings heat and flavor to quesadillas, tacos, burritos, enchiladas, or Tex-Mex casseroles

Adds a unique, spicy twist to macaroni and cheese, risotto, omelets, baked potatoes, burgers, cheese dips, or sauces