Northern Ireland’s vibrant dairy scene is responsible for some of the most exciting new cheeses in the British Isles. We’ve picked three of the best, plus a knockout mix of accompaniments to make your cheeseboard sing – at Christmas or any time of the year.
Northern Ireland’s vibrant dairy scene is responsible for some of the most exciting new cheeses in the British Isles. We’ve picked three of the best, plus a knockout mix of accompaniments to make your cheeseboard sing – at Christmas or any time of the year.
The perfect charcuterie to round out a cheeseboard, this salami’s bold peppery kick cuts through the mellow veal beautifully. £5 for 60g, available from Broughgammon
This mild blue from Newtownards has a gentle, long-lasting flavour that makes it too easy to go back for more. An interesting take on an ancient blue cheese recipe from 1917. £7.45 for 250g, available from Mike’s Fancy Cheese
Firm, delightfully salty and with a powerful tang, this is a recent addition to Northern Ireland’s cheese scene – and an incredibly tasty one. It wins awards for a reason. £7.36 for 200g, available from Valvona & Crolla
With the rich texture of honey but the boozy, tangy flavour of Armagh dry cider, this is a special product – and a natural pairing for cheeses with fruity notes. £3.25 for 100g, available from Graze 2U
Caramelised onion chutneys can’t hold a candle to this beautiful jam, which is given extra oomph and depth with a thyme and blackberry infused balsamic vinegar. £4 for 200g, available from Burren Balsamics
They’re pleasingly crumbly with a sweet-meets-savoury balance – your cheeses couldn’t ask for a better base. £4.75 for 150g, available from Gershon & Sons, High Street, Amersham (in-store only)
A triple cream brie-style cheese that’s decadently rich and buttery, with intriguing lemony, salty undertones. £6 for 110-130g, available from Mike’s Fancy Cheese
Find out more about Northern Ireland’s top producers, including a directory, at buynifood.com – and browse our five favourite food and drink gifts from Northern Ireland.
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