Beaufort Cheese

Beaufort Cheese is a firm, raw cow's milk cheese that is known for its smooth texture and intensely rich flavor. It is traditionally produced in the Beaufortain region of the French Alps and is available year-round, with variations in flavor and texture depending on the season. Summer Beauforts, made from milk of cows grazing on alpine pastures, are particularly prized for their complex herbal and floral notes. Beaufort is commonly used in fondue, gratins, and as a table cheese, and it plays a key role in French cuisine, especially in Savoie dishes like tartiflette.

Beaufort Cheese Synonyms

Beaufort d'été
Beaufort d'hiver
Beaufort d'alpage

Beaufort Cheese Substitutes

Gruyere

Different Forms/Types of Beaufort Cheese

Block

Some specialty cheese shops may cut Beaufort into block portions from the larger wheel for ease of sale and handling.

Wedge

Beaufort cheese typically comes in large wheels, but in the market, it is often sold in smaller wedge-shaped portions.

How to Choose Beaufort Cheese

To choose high-quality Beaufort Cheese, look for a label indicating 'AOC' (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) or 'PDO' (Protected Designation of Origin) status, which ensures it's made according to traditional methods in the Beaufort region of France. The rind should be a smooth, pale yellow-brown, without cracks or excessive dryness. The interior should be firm yet supple, with small, evenly distributed holes known as 'eyes'. The cheese should have a nutty, slightly sweet aroma, indicative of good maturation.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Beaufort Cheese

Beaufort Cheese, a firm and nutty cheese from the Savoie region of France, is a favorite among cheese connoisseurs for its complex flavor profile. When cooking with Beaufort, consider the age of the cheese; younger Beaufort is milder and more suited to melting, while older, more mature Beaufort can be grated over dishes to impart a stronger, more intense flavor. Due to its excellent melting qualities, Beaufort can be used similarly to Gruyère or Comté. Avoid high heat when melting Beaufort to prevent the cheese from separating and becoming oily. For a smooth melt, shred or slice the cheese thinly and allow it to come to room temperature before adding it to your dish.

Shelf Life of Beaufort Cheese

Beaufort cheese should be stored wrapped in parchment or wax paper, then placed in a plastic bag or airtight container in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator. This allows the cheese to breathe while maintaining the desired level of humidity. It is best consumed within two to three weeks of purchase. Beaufort can also be frozen if necessary, but this may alter its texture. To thaw, place the frozen cheese in the refrigerator for 24 hours before use.

Recommended Brands for Beaufort Cheese

Note: Beaufort cheese is generally not branded in the same way as mass-produced cheeses. It is more commonly identified by its region and the affineur or fromagerie that matured it. When shopping, focus on the age and origin of the cheese rather than a brand name.

Cooking Techniques for Beaufort Cheese

Baking: Incorporate grated Beaufort into your pastry dough or sprinkle on top of savory baked goods for added depth of flavor.

Fondue: Beaufort is a traditional choice for fondue. Combine it with white wine and a bit of garlic, heating gently while stirring until smooth and creamy.

Gratins: Layer thin slices of Beaufort over potatoes or other vegetables before baking to create a rich, golden crust.

Popular Beaufort Cheese Recipes

Tartiflette
Beaufort and Ham Croissants
Savoyard Potato Cake

Beaufort Cheese Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 34 g
fiber: 0 g
sugar: 0 g
sodium: 620 mg
calcium: 1000 mg
protein: 26.6 g
calories: 410 kcal
cholesterol: 110 mg
carbohydrates: 0.1 g

Flavor Combinations

Beaufort Cheese pairs beautifully with charcuterie, particularly air-dried hams like prosciutto or speck. It also complements fruits like apples, pears, and grapes, which provide a sweet contrast to the cheese's savory notes. Nutty flavors like walnuts or hazelnuts enhance its rich taste, and it can be balanced with pickles or onion marmalade for an added tang. Beaufort also goes well with robust red wines and lighter white wines, which can cut through the cheese's creamy texture.

Allergen Information

Beaufort Cheese contains lactose and cow's milk proteins which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with dairy allergies. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and those with a known allergy should avoid this cheese or consult with a healthcare provider before consumption.

Ingredient Comparisons

Beaufort Cheese vs Gruyere