Derek Bissonnette for culture: the word on cheese
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A former chef who worked in bakeries and three Michelin-starred restaurants throughout America and Europe, Derek Bissonnette has switched gears and now documents his passion for creating food with his camera (One Cheese, Five Ways, p. 25). Derek is the author and photographer of six cookbooks and is currently working on his seventh. He combines his skills for recipe development, styling, and photography at his studio in Saco, Maine.

Five Cozy Gruyère Recipes for Fall


Photographed by Derek Bissonnette Gruyère is world-renowned for its rich, nutty flavor and smooth, creamy texture—a true testament to the excellence of Swiss cheesemaking. Whether enjoyed on its own or melted in a fondue, its versatility makes it a staple in your cheese drawer. We suggest exploring different ages of Gruyère. For example, a 12-month […]

French Onion Fondue with Gruyère-Baked Baguettes


This recipe marries two cheesy classics into one decadent dish that’s perfect for an elegant dinner party or a romantic evening for two. Gruyère- cloaked cubes of French bread are heartily dunked into a pool of savory, caramelized onions. Heaven!

Gruyère Welsh Rarebit Toast


A Welsh rarebit is a dish made of luscious cheese sauce flavored with ale, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce, spread over toasted bread and broiled to golden perfection. The next time a grilled cheese sandwich craving hits, try this instead.

Squash, Sage, and Gruyère Frittata


This breakfast classic is a celebration of fresh and vibrant flavors sure to elevate your morning routine. Squash adds subtle sweetness, Gruyère lends a nutty depth, and there’s a touch of heat from red pepper flakes.

Gruyère Soufflé with Sherry Cream Sauce


Elevate a classic sweet soufflé to savory new heights. Although it could be, this dish is not left in a traditional ramekin when served. Prepare in advance, reheat, and plate up!

Gruyère Scones with Orange Marmalade


Gruyère complements sweet and slightly tart orange marmalade for a delightful treat that can be enjoyed for brunch or afternoon tea.

One Cheese Five Ways: Mozzarella


Written and photographed by Derek Bissonnette Fresh mozzarella is a non-aged, semi-soft, rindless cheese (try saying that five times fast!), typically made with cow’s milk in the United States, but it can also be made with goat, sheep, and buffalo’s milk (the latter used most in Italy). Mozzarella stretches and melts beautifully, is available in […]

Easy Pasta Salad with Orecchiette Mozzarella


This recipe uses orecchiette mozzarella, which looks likes thumb prints and resembles the pasta shape by the same name. (Fun Fact: orecchiette translates to “little ears.”) If you can’t find orecchiette mozzarella, you can cut any fresh mozzarella into 1⁄2-inch cubes. The cheese is added to warm pasta toward the end of cooking, melting to […]

How to Make Fresh Mozzarella Sticks


Sounds boring, right? Give these chain restaurant staples an upgrade by making them at home with quality cheese and homemade marinara. Patience is key: don’t skip triple breading and freezing overnight. By frying frozen, the batter will seal around the mozzarella and you won’t be left with a mess.

Mozzarella Ice Cream with Confit Tomatoes, Candied Basil, and Balsamic Reduction


Cheese ice cream—what!? Sugar plays a vital role in the consistency of freshly churned ice cream, so it’s important to choose sweet ingredients to marry in savory components. Since mozzarella is mild, the natural milk sugars are drawn out—a perfect addition to ice cream. Imagine a scoop of this in your summer gazpacho! This recipe […]

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