Camembert

What Is Camembert?

Camembert is a soft cheese produced from cow's milk, originating from France's Normandy region, with a white mold rind. It is considered part of the same family as brie but is produced in a smaller diameter (about 11–12 cm) and generally has a somewhat more intense, mushroomy-ammonia-like aroma.

As it ripens, its interior becomes flowing; a fully ripe camembert reaches a consistency that can be eaten with a spoon. It is traditionally sold in a wooden box.

Nutritional Values of Camembert

Camembert is a soft cheese with a high fat ratio; 100 grams contains about 300 kcal of energy, 19.8 g protein and 388 mg calcium.

What Are the Benefits of Camembert?

Camembert is a cheese containing calcium and protein; due to its high fat and salt ratio it is recommended to be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

This information is general; camembert is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. Varieties made from raw milk are not recommended during pregnancy; checking the label is important.

How to Choose Camembert?

When buying camembert, attention should be paid to the rind being white and sound, and it should show a little give when pressed lightly; overly firm or overly runny ones should be avoided.

• Wooden-boxed products with a recent production date should be preferred.
• There should be no gray-brown spots on the rind.
• An overly sharp ammonia smell may be a sign of spoilage.

How to Store Camembert?

Camembert stays fresh for 1–2 weeks in the refrigerator in its original box; pieces without a box should be wrapped in wax paper.

Using Camembert in the Kitchen

Camembert is used on cheese boards, in baked appetizers and in apple-walnut pairings.

How to Make Baked Camembert?

Camembert taken out of its wooden box (with the rind lightly scored) is placed back in its box or in a baking dish and baked at 180°C for 15–20 minutes until the inside becomes flowing; served with breadsticks.

Which Recipes Use Camembert?

Baked camembert, cheese board, camembert sandwich and apple-walnut pairings are the best-known uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is camembert good for?

It is a cheese containing calcium and protein; it can be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

What is the difference between camembert and brie?

Camembert has a smaller diameter and is generally more intense-mushroomy in aroma; brie is larger and has a relatively milder flavor.

How is camembert stored?

It stays fresh for 1–2 weeks in the refrigerator in its original box; after opening it should be stored wrapped in wax paper.

Is camembert's rind edible?

Yes, the white mold rind is edible and part of the cheese's aroma.

How is camembert served?

It is recommended to serve it at room temperature, fully ripened and in a flowing consistency, with bread or crackers.