Brie, Camembert & Other Soft Cheeses (2024)

FAQs

What kind of cheese is Brie and Camembert? ›

Although both Brie and Camembert fall into the category of bloomy rind cheeses, Camembert has a white rind that is often speckled with red or brown spots. On the other hand, the rind of the larger and flatter Brie is less speckled and the rind can appear pale yellow.

Flavour Profile

However, Camembert uses stronger lactic starters during the cheese-making process so it has a stronger flavour (however, this is definitely still a mild cheese). Compared to brie, camembert doesn't hold its shape as well – this is prevalent when you cook it as camembert melts much quicker.

While France is best known for soft ripened cheeses such as Brie and Camembert, there are several hundred other varieties of French Cheese made throughout the country.

So, even though it is prohibited to make Brie or Camembert in the US (because they use raw, or unpasteurised milk), it is legal to bring them into the country. The same applies to goat's cheese – provided it does not come from a country with Foot and Mouth disease.

Although extremely tasty on that cheese plate, soft cheeses such as Camembert, brie and triple-creme (cheese enriched with cream) fall into the "less healthy" category because of their saturated fat content.

It goes without saying that you will gently explain to your friends that the rind on the soft cheeses like Camembert and Brie is not only edible but that it completes the sensory experience by enriching the taste and creating a beautiful contrast in texture between the shell and the heart of the cheese.

Even before the first bite, you will notice the alluring smell of these cheeses. Brie has a light and buttery aroma. Camembert's scent is earthier.

How to Serve Camembert. Camembert should be brought to room temperature before serving. Simply remove the cheese from the refrigerator 30 minutes to one hour before you plan to eat it. The cold of your refrigerator mutes the flavors and aromas of the cheese and makes its texture firm and waxy.

Is Brie healthy? ›

It's rich in fat and protein, along with calcium, vitamin B12, and riboflavin. If eaten in moderation, brie may promote feelings of fullness and aid appetite control, which can promote weight loss. If you're interested in this cheese, try it baked as a delectable side — or eat it on its own as a snack.

Cut off slices of the cheese and use a knife to spread it on the cracker or a slice of French bread. Eat it as is, or add a little honey or preserves on top. Try whatever jams or preserves you enjoy, such as raspberry, cherry, fig, or apricot.

Kissed with earthy and sweet tones, this white mould cheese captivates with its slight hints of caramelised butter and foraged mushrooms. The aftertaste is rounded and somewhat tangy, with a pleasant and soft finish.

Camembert and mozzarella are vastly different cheeses with the former used mainly for platters, while the latter is predominantly, but not always, a cooking variety.

Brie has a rich and buttery taste with a mild, creamy flavor. Its texture is soft and smooth, often described as melt-in-your-mouth. As Brie cheese ages, it develops a stronger flavor and becomes more complex, with earthy and nutty undertones.