For many of us, cheese comes before a meal but for some, that would be unthinkable and the debate is whether it comes before or after dessert. Obviously, cheese can be served before, after or during a meal, depending on the dining tradition and personal preferences. The timing of cheese service often varies from one culture to another and can also be influenced by the overall structure of a meal. Here are some common ways cheese is enjoyed:
Cheese as an Appetiser: A cheese platter or cheese board may be offered with a selection of cheeses, meats, bread, crackers, and perhaps some fruits or nuts. Serving cheese as an appetiser can whet the appetite and set the tone for the meal to come. This is common in casual dining settings, and is an easy and impactful appetiser – contributing to its popularity as an appetiser.
Cheese Course (During the Meal): In fine dining or multi-course meals, there may be a dedicated cheese course served after the main course but before dessert. This allows diners to savour different cheeses with various textures and flavours, often accompanied by wine or port. It provides a palate-cleansing interlude between the savoury main course and sweet dessert, or as the dessert course itself. If you’re served cheese as part of a meal in France, this is the most likely way it will come.
Cheese as a Snack or After-Dinner Treat: In England, cheese is served after dessert with rich fortified wine. This final course is a perfect opportunity to linger at the table, engage in conversation, with the cheese serving as a companion into the night.
Cheese with Dessert: In some instances, cheese is served alongside or immediately following dessert. This practice is less common but can be appealing to those who enjoy contrasting sweet and savoury flavours.
The choice of when to serve cheese depends on the overall dining experience you wish to create and your personal preferences. Consider the context of the meal, the types of cheese you have, and the flavours you want to highlight.
Ultimately, there is no hard-and-fast rule about when to serve cheese, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for your preferences and the occasion.