What Goes Well with White Cheese?

The most common accompaniments to white cheese are classics of the Turkish breakfast table: tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and fresh mint balance the cheese's salty, tangy flavor and add color and freshness to the plate. These 4 accompaniments are among the most traditional pairings for white cheese in Turkish breakfast culture.

Which breakfast pairings stand out?

The high water content and mild sweetness of tomatoes and cucumbers soften the saltiness of the cheese. Black olives have a salty, slightly bitter flavor that complements the cheese. Adding honey or jam creates a sweet contrast to the salty cheese. Eating cheese with seasonal fruits such as melon and watermelon is one of the most classic examples of a sweet-and-salty pairing.

How should bread and olive oil be paired with it?

Dense breads with a firm crust, such as country bread or rye bread, contrast well with the soft texture of the cheese. A thin slice of bread topped with cheese and a few drops of olive oil makes a simple but filling open-faced sandwich. Sprinkling thyme or mint on the plate can make the cheese's flavor stand out. Crumbling white cheese into shepherd's salad can turn it into a light meal. Paired with roasted peppers and eggplant, it makes for a heartier dish closer to a main course. A cheese and melon plate is a popular light option, especially during warm months.

The saltiness of the cheese also determines which ingredients pair well with it. Mildly salted white cheese goes well with honey or jam, while firm, salty cheese is better balanced by tomatoes and olives. Varieties such as Van-style herb cheese already have their own aroma, so a slice of plain bread is enough; additional seasoning is unnecessary. Restaurant cheese plates often include nuts such as walnuts or hazelnuts. Their rich, crunchy texture balances the cheese's softness. In hot dishes, white cheese added to spinach or potato borek filling seasons the filling, so no additional salt is needed.

The way the cheese is cut also affects how it pairs with other foods. Cubed cheese mixes more easily into salads, while thick slices are better served on bread by themselves. If the cheese is grilled, a small drizzle of grape molasses or honey adds a sweet contrast to its warm, soft texture. White cheese pairs traditionally with tea. A boiled egg and olives served with it at breakfast also make a satisfying trio of 3 foods that balances the cheese's saltiness.

Overall, ingredients paired with white cheese either balance its saltiness with sweetness or complement it with flavors from a similar salty, tangy family. The size of the cheese plate should be adjusted to the number of guests. Serving several types of cheese at a large breakfast keeps the plate from relying on just one variety.