Latvian Cheese Platter Recipe

This delightful recipe for a Latvian cheese platter combines a selection of unique cheeses with delicious complementary flavors, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering. This simple yet exquisite dish highlights a variety of textures and tastes by featuring both traditional and gourmet elements. Whether you are organizing a dinner party or just a cozy night in, this cheese platter is designed to impress. It brings together the creamy and earthy flavors of different cheeses, paired with the sweet and tart notes of jams and berries. With just 15 minutes of preparation time, it serves as an effortless yet luxurious offering. From the nutty aroma of roasted hazelnuts to the vibrant colors of fresh berries, each component is chosen to elevate your dining experience. The Latvian cheese platter is versatile, making it suitable for both formal occasions and casual gatherings. Explore this simple guide to creating a cheese platter that captivates both the eyes and the palate.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Piece of Jāņu cheese
Piece of smoked cheese
Piece of cheese with herbs
Piece of semi-hard goat cheese
Piece of Gouda cheese with hemp seeds

Accompaniments

Small dish of cloudberry jam
Small dish of lingonberry jam
Fresh berries
Dried cranberries
Roasted and salted hazelnuts

Preparation Time

Total Time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Select a large serving plate or board that provides enough space for all ingredients without being overcrowded.
Begin by slicing the cheese: Cut the Jāņu cheese, smoked cheese, cheese with herbs, semi-hard goat cheese, and Gouda cheese into bite-sized pieces or wedges.
Arrange the cheeses attractively on the platter. Consider spreading them out to create visual appeal and make it easy for guests to pick their favorites.
Position the cloudberry and lingonberry jams on the platter. Use small dishes or bowls to keep the jams contained and tidy.
Scatter fresh berries around the cheese selections. This adds not only flavor but also a pop of color to the presentation.
Incorporate dried cranberries, placing them in small piles near the cheese or jam dishes.
Sprinkle roasted and salted hazelnuts across the board for an added crunch and nutty aroma.
Check the arrangement, ensuring visually pleasing balance and ease of access to all selected items.
Serve the platter immediately or add a decorative touch with fresh herbs for added elegance.
Encourage variety of pairing, allowing guests to explore different flavor combinations.
Store any leftovers in airtight containers to keep the cheeses and accompaniments fresh.
Share a personal touch by explaining the origins and unique characteristics of the cheeses included.
Modify the flavor profile, if preferred, by introducing additional elements like olives or cured meats.
Keep presentation simple yet elegant, making the cheeses the focal point of the display.
Be mindful of dietary restrictions and offer alternatives if needed.
Accompany the platter with suitable beverages, like a crisp white wine or a light beer.
Set alongside other appetizers to create a complete entertaining spread.
Use seasonal fruits to match with the different types of cheeses.
Maintain a consistent theme, possibly focusing on natural or rustic presentation styles.
Enjoy each bite mindfully, appreciating the blend of traditional and contemporary flavors.

Tips

Choose a variety of cheeses to offer different textures and flavors.
Balance between sweet and savory accompaniments to cater to various palates.
Serve at room temperature to allow the cheeses' full flavors to emerge.
Substitute or add your preferred local cheeses for a personal touch.
Use a mix of nuts to replace or combine with hazelnuts, like almonds or walnuts for different textures.

Variations

For a vegan version, try plant-based cheeses and nut butters.
Add a variety of breads or crackers for guests who prefer additional carbohydrates with their cheese.
Include pickles or other cured vegetables for a tangy twist to balance the richness of the cheeses.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with crisp white wines or light beers to complement the cheese flavors.
Serve alongside charcuterie for a more substantial offering.
Garnish with fresh herbs such as thyme or basil for a fragrant touch.

Best Places

Brooklyn Brewery Cheese Bar - A unique fusion of local and international cheeses with artisanal beers. Location: 79 North 11th Street, Brooklyn, New York, USA.
La Fromagerie - Known for its curated selecction of European cheeses. Location: 2-4 Moxon Street, London, United Kingdom.
The Cheese Room, Sydney - Offers expertly assembled platters with premium cheeses. Location: 5 Clarence Street, Sydney, Australia.
Cheese Boutique Cafe - A cozy cafe with an impressive cheese selection and charming atmosphere. Location: 45 Ripley Avenue, Toronto, Canada.
Cheese Culture - A trendy spot offering gourmet cheese boards with seasonal accompaniments. Location: 3401 North Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, USA.
Alpine Cheese House - Specializes in Swiss-style cheese platters with a rustic touch. Location: Dorfstrasse 56, Zermatt, Switzerland.
Formaggio Kitchen Boston - A staple for gourmet cheese and local specialties. Location: 244 Huron Avenue, Cambridge, USA.
Fromagerie de Meaux Saint-Faron - Renowned for its traditional French cheese selections. Location: Rue du Faubourg Saint-Nicolas, Meaux, France.
Odyssey Cheese & Pickle, Auckland - Offers a modern twist on classic cheese platters. Location: 89 Fort Street, Auckland, New Zealand.
Casa del Queso, Buenos Aires - A vibrant spot known for a wide range of Argentinian cheeses. Location: 1234 Calle Corrientes, Buenos Aires, Argentina.