Brie Cheese Cooking: Delicious Recipes and Tips

Brie. Just the name conjures up images of creamy, decadent cheese, oozing with luxurious goodness. It's the star of countless cheeseboards, a staple at countless dinner parties, and a cheese that's always a welcome addition to any meal. For me, brie is more than just a cheese; it's an ingredient with endless possibilities, a blank canvas for culinary creativity.

But let's be honest, brie isn't always just about serving it with crackers and grapes (though, that's always a winner!). We're going to explore the world of brie cooking, uncovering the exciting ways you can use this delightful cheese to elevate your dishes from ordinary to extraordinary.

Now, you might be thinking, "Brie? That's a cheese you eat cold, right?" Well, absolutely! It's divine cold, but it's also surprisingly versatile. You can bake it, grill it, even use it in sauces. We'll delve into recipes that showcase its incredible versatility and leave you amazed by what you can create with just a simple wheel of brie.

(Part 1) The Basics: Choosing the Right Brie

Before we embark on our culinary journey, let's talk about the star of the show: the brie itself. There's a world of brie varieties out there, but for cooking, I generally recommend sticking with a classic, full-fat brie. The richer fat content means it melts beautifully and delivers that melt-in-your-mouth texture that's the hallmark of a good brie experience.

What to Look For

Here's how to choose the perfect brie for your cooking adventures:

1. Freshness is Key: A good brie should have a firm rind that's slightly yielding when you press on it. Avoid any brie with moldy patches, or a strong, off-putting smell. It's a sign the cheese is past its prime.
2. Rind Matters: The rind should be smooth and velvety, not too hard or brittle. It's usually a whitish-grey colour. A good rind is a sign of a well-aged and flavorful cheese.
3. Shape is a Personal Preference: You'll find brie in various shapes and sizes, from round to rectangular. I personally prefer a round brie for baking or grilling because it seems to melt more evenly.

Brie Varieties: Beyond the Classic

If you're feeling adventurous, there's a whole world of brie varieties waiting to be explored. These specialty brie cheeses can add unique flavour notes to your dishes:

• Triple-cream brie: This decadent brie boasts a higher fat content, resulting in a richer, creamier flavour and texture that's perfect for indulging in on a special occasion. It's almost like a luxurious cloud of cheese.
• Brie with Herbs: Think brie infused with the aromas of garlic, chives, or rosemary. These infused brie varieties add a lovely flavour and aroma that will elevate your dishes. Imagine the fragrant garlic and herb notes mingling with the creamy brie.
• Smoked brie: For those who love a hint of smokiness, smoked brie is a real treat. Its unique smoky flavour adds a fascinating dimension to your dishes. It's a perfect choice for pairing with roasted vegetables or a hearty soup.

(Part 2) Baking Brie: A Classic Approach

Baking brie is a classic way to enjoy this cheese, and for good reason. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's always a crowd-pleaser. The cheese melts beautifully, creating that heavenly, gooey, warm centre that's just irresistible. There are so many delicious variations on this simple recipe, but let me share my go-to baked brie that never fails to impress.

My Go-To Baked Brie Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 wheel of brie (around 250g)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Crackers or bread for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Remove the brie from its packaging and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
3. Spread the butter evenly over the top of the brie, then drizzle with the honey. The honey will caramelize in the oven, adding a layer of sweetness and depth to the flavour.
4. Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the top, and tuck in a few sprigs of rosemary. The nuts will add a satisfying crunch and the rosemary will provide a subtle earthy aroma.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You'll know it's ready when the rind is slightly golden and the centre is molten. The cheese will puff up slightly as it bakes.
6. Serve immediately with crackers or bread. I like to use crusty bread that can hold up to the gooey cheese.

This recipe is a real treat. The salty, creamy brie perfectly complements the sweet honey and the crunch of the nuts. The rosemary adds a lovely earthy touch, and the melted cheese is simply divine. It's a dish that's both visually appealing and incredibly delicious. I often serve this at dinner parties, and it's always a huge hit.

(Part 3) Going Beyond the Basics: Brie in Savoury Dishes

Now, let's get a little more adventurous. Brie isn't just for snacking and appetizers. It can be a star ingredient in all sorts of savoury dishes, adding its unique creamy richness and flavour. Over the years, I've been experimenting with brie in my cooking, and I've discovered some truly delightful recipes that I can't wait to share with you.

Brie and Mushroom Tart: A Classic with a Twist

This tart is a real crowd-pleaser. It's got a beautiful, buttery crust, a rich and creamy filling, and a satisfyingly cheesy top. You can use whatever mushrooms you like, but I find button mushrooms work best for this recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 250g button mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 wheel of brie, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and place it in a tart pan. Trim any excess pastry and prick the base with a fork. This will help prevent the pastry from puffing up too much during baking.
3. Melt the butter in a frying pan over medium heat and cook the onion for 5 minutes, until softened.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes, until they start to soften.
5. Pour in the white wine and simmer for 2 minutes, until the liquid has reduced slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. The wine and cream will create a luscious, creamy sauce.
6. Pour the mushroom mixture into the tart pan and top with the brie slices.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the pastry is golden and the brie is melted and bubbly.
8. Let the tart cool for 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice.

This tart is perfect served warm, but it's also delicious cold. It's a real crowd-pleaser, and it's always a welcome addition to any dinner party menu. The combination of the buttery crust, creamy mushroom filling, and melty brie is simply divine.

(Part 4) Brie and Pasta: A Creamy Combination

Pasta and brie? It might sound a bit unusual at first, but trust me, it's a winning combination. The creamy brie melts beautifully into the pasta sauce, creating a rich and decadent dish that's perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.

Creamy Brie and Spinach Pasta: Simple Yet Satisfying

Ingredients:

• 250g pasta (I prefer penne or rigatoni for this recipe)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 wheel of brie, cut into small cubes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese, for grating

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Make sure to cook it al dente, so it doesn't become mushy when combined with the sauce.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the spinach and cook for 2 minutes, until wilted. The spinach will add a touch of freshness and a beautiful green colour to the dish.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the brie cubes to the pan and stir until melted, creating a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The brie will melt into the cream, creating a luscious sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
6. Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with the sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

This dish is incredibly simple to make, but it's packed with flavour. The brie adds a lovely richness to the sauce, and the spinach adds a touch of freshness. It's a perfect comfort food that's sure to please everyone at the table.

(Part 5) Brie and Vegetables: A Delicious Duo

Brie isn't just about cheese and carbs, you know. It can pair beautifully with vegetables too, creating a balance of textures and flavours. It's a great way to add a touch of indulgence to your veggies and create a delicious and healthy meal.

roasted brussels sprouts with Brie and Bacon: A Flavorful Combination

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped bacon
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 wheel of brie, cut into small pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This will help them roast evenly and develop a crispy exterior.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. This ensures they roast evenly and don't steam.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until tender and slightly browned.
5. While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. The bacon will add a smoky flavour and a satisfying crunch.
6. Once the Brussels sprouts are done, transfer them to a serving bowl. Add the bacon, nuts, and brie pieces. Toss to combine. The brie will melt slightly from the heat of the sprouts, creating a creamy sauce.
7. Serve immediately.

This dish is a real winner. The Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, and the brie adds a creamy, salty note. The bacon adds a smoky flavour and the nuts provide a nice crunch. It's a perfect side dish or even a light main course.

(Part 6) Brie and Salads: A Light and Refreshing Combination

Brie can also be a delicious addition to salads, adding a creamy, salty touch that complements the fresh greens and other toppings. I often add brie to salads for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.

Mixed Greens Salad with Brie and Cranberries: A Perfect Balance

Ingredients:

• Mixed greens (I like to use a combination of baby spinach, romaine lettuce, and arugula)
• 1/4 wheel of brie, cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, brie, cranberries, and nuts. The combination of textures and flavours is what makes this salad so appealing.
2. Drizzle with the balsamic vinaigrette and toss to coat. I prefer to use a good quality balsamic vinaigrette that has a bit of sweetness to balance the saltiness of the brie.
3. Serve immediately.

This salad is light, refreshing, and packed with flavour. The brie adds a creamy richness, the cranberries provide a sweet and tart contrast, and the nuts add a lovely crunch. It's a perfect combination of textures and flavours that's sure to please everyone.

(Part 7) Brie and Sandwiches: A Quick and Easy Lunch

Who doesn't love a good sandwich? And brie is a perfect addition to a simple sandwich, adding a touch of luxury and flavour. It's great for a quick and easy lunch, and it can be easily customized with your favourite ingredients.

Brie and Apple Sandwich: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of crusty bread
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/4 wheel of brie, thinly sliced
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. Spread butter on both slices of bread.
2. Top one slice of bread with the brie and apple slices. The apple will add a touch of sweetness and a nice textural contrast to the brie.
3. Drizzle with honey. This will add a hint of sweetness and help to caramelize the brie as it melts.
4. Top with the other slice of bread.
5. Heat in a panini press or a skillet over medium heat until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. The panini press will create a crispy crust and melt the cheese perfectly.
6. Serve immediately.

This sandwich is a real treat. The sweet and tart apple pairs beautifully with the creamy brie, and the honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances the salty cheese. It's a perfect combination of textures and flavours that's sure to satisfy.

(Part 8) Brie and Soups: A Creamy and Delicious Twist

Brie can also add a touch of luxury and creaminess to your favourite soups. It's a great way to boost the flavour of a simple soup and make it feel more special.

Creamy Brie and Mushroom Soup: Comfort in a Bowl

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 250g button mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 wheel of brie, cut into small pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes, until softened. The onion will provide a base for the flavour of the soup.
2. Add the garlic and mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes, until the mushrooms have softened. The mushrooms will add a lovely earthy flavour to the soup.
3. Pour in the white wine and simmer for 2 minutes, until the liquid has reduced slightly. This will help to develop the flavour of the soup.
4. Stir in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes. This will allow the flavours to meld together.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and brie pieces. Cook until the brie is melted and the soup is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The brie will melt into the soup, creating a creamy, luxurious texture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. A sprinkle of parsley adds a touch of freshness and colour to the soup.

This soup is creamy, rich, and utterly delicious. The brie adds a lovely depth of flavour, and the mushrooms provide a satisfying earthy note. It's a perfect comfort food for a cold winter's day.

(Part 9) Brie and Desserts: A Sweet and Savoury Treat

I know what you're thinking: brie in desserts? It might sound strange, but trust me, it works. The sweet and salty combination is a real winner, and it's sure to impress your guests. It's a delicious way to explore the unexpected flavours of brie.

Brie and Fig Tartlets: A Taste of Autumn

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/4 wheel of brie, thinly sliced
• 4 fresh figs, sliced
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into 4 squares. Place each square in a tartlet pan.
3. Prick the base of each tartlet with a fork. This will prevent air bubbles from forming during baking.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown.
5. Remove the tartlets from the oven and let them cool slightly.
6. Spread a thin layer of butter over the base of each tartlet. The butter will add a richness to the tartlets.
7. Top with brie slices, fig slices, honey, and nuts. The combination of brie and figs is classic, and the honey and nuts add a lovely sweet and crunchy contrast.
8. Bake for another 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve warm.

These tartlets are a delightful combination of sweet and salty. The fig and brie are a classic pairing, and the honey and nuts add a lovely crunch. They're perfect for a special occasion or a simple dessert after dinner.

(Part 10) Brie and Wine: The Perfect Pairing

No brie feast is complete without a glass of wine. Brie pairs beautifully with a wide range of wines, but I recommend sticking with whites or rosés. These lighter wines complement the creamy texture and richness of brie.

White Wine Pairings:

• Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp, dry white wine has bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the brie. It's a refreshing choice that pairs well with brie and salads.
• Chardonnay: A fuller-bodied white wine with notes of butter and vanilla that complements the creamy texture of brie. It's a luxurious pairing that's perfect for a special occasion.
• Riesling: A sweet and fruity white wine with a touch of acidity that pairs well with brie and fruit-based dishes. Its sweetness complements the richness of the brie and adds a layer of complexity to the flavour profile.

Rosé Wine Pairings:

• Provence Rosé: A light and refreshing rosé with notes of red berries and floral aromas that pairs beautifully with brie and salads. It's a light and elegant choice that complements the creamy brie.
• Cabernet Franc Rosé: A slightly bolder rosé with notes of red fruit and spice that complements the salty flavour of brie. It's a more robust choice that pairs well with brie-based dishes that have a bit more flavour complexity.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze brie?

Yes, you can freeze brie, but it's best to freeze it whole. Wrap the brie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Frozen brie will last for up to 3 months. To thaw, place the brie in the refrigerator for 24 hours. The freezing process can affect the texture of the brie, but it's a good option if you need to store it for a longer period of time.

2. How do I tell if brie is bad?

Brie that has gone bad will have a strong, pungent smell and a slimy texture. The rind may also be discolored or moldy. If you see any of these signs, it's best to discard the cheese. Always trust your senses when it comes to cheese! If it doesn't smell or look right, it's best not to risk it.

3. What can I do with leftover brie?

Leftover brie can be used in a variety of dishes, such as sandwiches, salads, or soups. You can also slice it thinly and serve it on crackers or bread with fruit. It's a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed in many different ways.

4. Can I bake brie in a cast iron skillet?

Yes, you can bake brie in a cast iron skillet. Just make sure to preheat the skillet in the oven for a few minutes before adding the brie. The cast iron will help to create a crispy crust on the brie and distribute heat evenly.

5. Can I substitute brie with another cheese in recipes?

Yes, you can often substitute brie with other cheeses, such as camembert or even goat cheese. However, the flavour and texture will be different. Camembert has a similar texture and flavour to brie, but it's slightly more pungent. Goat cheese has a tangier flavour and a crumblier texture.

So there you have it, a complete guide to cooking with brie. I hope you've been inspired to get creative and try some of these recipes. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy yourself. And don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. Who knows, you might even discover your own favourite way to cook with brie!