Cheese Showdown: Goat Cheese Vs. Blue Cheese – Which Reigns Supreme?

Blue cheese, a culinary delicacy, is a type of cheese characterized by its distinctive blue-green veins or spots. These veins are created by the introduction of a specific mold culture, Penicillium roqueforti or Penicillium glaucum, during the cheesemaking process. The mold grows and produces enzymes that break down the cheese’s fats and proteins, resulting in its unique flavor and texture.

Is Goat Cheese Blue Cheese?

The answer to the question “Is goat cheese blue cheese?” is not a straightforward yes or no. While there are blue cheeses made from goat’s milk, they are not as common as blue cheeses made from cow’s milk.

Types of Goat Cheese

Goat cheese encompasses a wide range of varieties, each with its own distinct characteristics:

• Fresh Goat Cheese: Soft, spreadable cheese with a mild, tangy flavor.
• Aged Goat Cheese: Harder and crumblier with a more intense flavor.
• Chèvre: A soft, creamy goat cheese with a delicate, earthy flavor.
• Feta: A brined goat cheese with a salty, tangy taste.

Blue Cheese from Goat’s Milk

Although less prevalent than cow’s milk blue cheese, goat’s milk blue cheese does exist. It is known for its unique flavor profile, characterized by:

• Creamy Texture: Goat’s milk naturally contains more fat than cow’s milk, resulting in a creamier blue cheese.
• Tangy Flavor: The tanginess of goat’s milk adds a distinct zest to the cheese.
• Earthy Notes: Goat’s milk blue cheese often exhibits earthy and nutty undertones.

Examples of Goat’s Milk Blue Cheese

Some notable examples of goat’s milk blue cheese include:

• Cabrales: A Spanish blue cheese made from a blend of cow’s, sheep’s, and goat’s milk.
• Fourme d’Ambert: A French blue cheese made exclusively from goat’s milk.
• Rogue River Blue: An American blue cheese made from goat’s milk and aged in pear brandy barrels.

Benefits of Goat’s Milk Blue Cheese

In addition to its unique flavor, goat’s milk blue cheese offers several health benefits:

• Rich in Nutrients: Goat’s milk is rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins.
• Easier to Digest: Goat’s milk contains smaller fat globules than cow’s milk, making it easier to digest.
• Lower in Lactose: Goat’s milk has a lower lactose content than cow’s milk, making it a suitable choice for those with lactose intolerance.

Pairings for Goat’s Milk Blue Cheese

Goat’s milk blue cheese pairs well with a variety of foods, including:

• Fruit: Fresh fruits such as pears, apples, and grapes.
• Nuts: Walnuts, almonds, and pistachios.
• Honey: Drizzle honey over the cheese for a sweet and salty combination.
• Red Wine: A bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the cheese’s tanginess.

The Bottom Line: The Verdict

While goat cheese is typically not blue cheese, there are indeed blue cheeses made from goat’s milk. These cheeses offer a unique flavor profile and health benefits, making them a delightful addition to any cheeseboard or culinary creation.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: What is the difference between goat cheese and blue cheese?
A: Goat cheese is made from goat’s milk, while blue cheese is characterized by its blue-green veins or spots, created by the introduction of a mold culture.

Q: Can I find goat‘s milk blue cheese in most supermarkets?
A: Goat’s milk blue cheese is less common than cow’s milk blue cheese, but it can be found in specialty cheese shops or online retailers.

Q: How do I store goat‘s milk blue cheese?
A: Wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.