What are the best Belgian cheeses?
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Direct Answer: The best Belgian cheeses include Herve (a strong, pungent protected cheese), Passendale (a classic semi-soft cheese), Chimay (a trappist cheese washed in beer), and Morbier (though distinctively French, widely enjoyed in Belgium). Belgium boasts over 300 varieties, ranging from creamy soft cheeses to hard, aged wheels. They are traditionally paired with Belgian beer rather than wine, often served with mustard, celery salt, and hearty bread.
What makes Belgian cheese unique?
Belgium has a rich cheesemaking tradition that rivals its neighbors, France and the Netherlands.
- Variety: Despite its small size, Belgium produces over 300 distinct types of cheese.
- Terroir: From the grassy pastures of Flanders to the rolling hills of the Ardennes, each region produces distinct flavors.
- Beer Pairing: Unlike the French tradition of wine pairing, Belgian cheese is crafted to be eaten with beer.
What are the most popular Belgian cheeses?
Here are the essential cheeses you must try:
- Fromage de Herve (PDO): The only Belgian cheese with a Protected Designation of Origin. It smells strong but has a rich, full flavor.
- Chimay: A semi-hard Trappist cheese washed in Chimay beer, giving it a unique hop aroma.
- Passendale: A semi-soft cheese with small holes and a mild, nutty taste, shaped like a rustic loaf.
- Orval: Another Trappist treasure, creamy and perfect for melting.
- Brugge Blomme: A delicate, floral cheese ripened in moist cellars.
What are the best pairings for Belgian cheese?
The golden rule in Belgium is: Cheese matches Beer.
- Herve + Strong Dark Ale: The intensity of Herve stands up to a quadruple ale or a heavy stout.
- Chimay Cheese + Chimay Beer: A classic pairings; the flavors are designed to complement each other.
- Goat Cheese + Wheat Beer: The acidity of a Witbier cuts through the creaminess of fresh goat cheese.
- Accompaniments: Serve with Liege syrup (apple/pear spread), lush grapes, walnuts, and celery salt.
Where can you buy authentic Belgian cheese?
- Local Markets: Every Belgian town has a weekly market with cheesemongers (fromagerie).
- Cheese Shops: Look for specialists like Kaasaffineurs Van Tricht in Antwerp.
- Supermarkets: Even standard supermarkets (Delhaize, Colruyt) carry an impressive selection of local varieties.
How should you serve Belgian cheese?
- Temperature: Always serve at room temperature. Take it out of the fridge 1 hour before eating.
- Cutting: Don’t pre-cut everything; let guests slice their own to keep it fresh.
- Order: Arrange from mildest to strongest on the platter.