What’s Better with Cheese: Bread or Crackers?
The answer is both, neither, or either. It’s a matter of taste and occasion. Here are a few guidelines to consider when pairing bread or crackers with fromage:
- Aged cheeses hold their own when matched with hearty bread or crackers made with seeds, whole grains, or rye flour—think bandaged cheddar with flax-and-poppyseed crisps.
- Mild and fresh cheeses do well with delicately flavored bread or crackers. For example, try chèvre or fromage blanc with rosemary flatbread or olive focaccia.
- For feta and other salty cheeses such as Pecorino Romano, choose a cracker or bread sans extra salt.
- Stinky, washed-rind cheeses sing with fruit- or nut-studded breads and crackers.
Also, remember the decision is affected by the other accompaniments on offer, such as preserves, fruit, and savory toppings. Still unsure? Stick with a plain (non-sourdough) baguette or water crackers—or better yet, experiment and make your own rules.
Feature Photo Credit: Andrew Purcell
Gianaclis Caldwell
Gianaclis Caldwell is the author of Mastering Artisan Cheesemaking, among other books. She manages the goat herd and cheesemaking operations at Pholia Farm Creamery in Oregon.
