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Distinctive Features
Cashel Blue presents as a medium-sized wheel, typically weighing between 2.5 to 3 kilograms. Its natural rind is thin, pale grey, and slightly wrinkled, often bearing the marks of the cheesecloth used during draining. The paste is an ivory or pale yellow colour, marbled with distinctive blue-green veining that is evenly distributed from the centre to the rind.
The texture is notably creamy and smooth, almost fudgy when perfectly ripe. It has a firm but yielding consistency that softens further at room temperature. The cheese boasts a fat content of approximately 50% fat in dry matter, contributing to its rich mouthfeel. Its moisture level is carefully controlled to achieve the ideal balance between spreadability and structure.
Cashel Blue Varieties
The original Cashel Blue is aged for approximately 10 to 12 weeks, developing its characteristic mild and creamy profile. The Grubb family also produces a more mature version, often referred to as an ‘aged’ or ‘vintage’ Cashel Blue. This aged variety is left to develop for a longer period, sometimes up to six months.
The extended aging process intensifies the cheese’s flavour and alters its texture. The paste becomes more crumbly and the blue veining more pronounced. The flavour shifts from mild and creamy to a stronger, more piquant and complex taste. Both varieties maintain the same high-quality production standards and PDO status.
History and Traditions
Cashel Blue was created in 1984 by Jane and Louis Grubb on their farm, Beechmount, in County Tipperary. It was the first Irish farmhouse blue cheese, pioneering a new category for Irish artisan producers. The cheese is named after the Rock of Cashel, a historic site located nearby, which is a symbol of the region’s rich heritage.
The region of Tipperary is part of Ireland’s Golden Vale, renowned for its rich pastureland ideal for dairy farming. This agricultural tradition provides the high-quality milk essential for Cashel Blue. The area is also famous for other food products, including grass-fed beef and traditional Irish whiskeys. The creation of the cheese was a deliberate move to add value to the farm’s milk production and has since become an iconic Irish food.
Production Process
The production of Cashel Blue begins with pasteurised milk from the farm’s own Friesian herd. The milk is warmed and traditional animal rennet is added to form curds. The curds are then cut and gently ladled into moulds by hand, a process that helps retain moisture for a creamy texture. The wheels are turned regularly during the initial draining phase.
After draining, the cheeses are pierced with stainless steel needles to introduce oxygen into the paste. This action encourages the growth of the Penicillium roqueforti culture, which creates the signature blue veining. The cheeses are then transferred to the maturing rooms where they are aged on wooden shelves. They are regularly turned and monitored for 10 to 12 weeks to develop their full flavour and texture.
Wine or Beverage Pairings
Cashel Blue’s creamy richness and gentle blue tang pair beautifully with sweet fortified wines. A classic regional pairing is with a rich Irish stout, such as those produced locally. The roasted malt flavours of the stout complement the creamy saltiness of the cheese. The carbonation also helps to cleanse the palate between bites.
For wine lovers, a Sauternes or another botrytised sweet wine is an excellent match. The wine’s honeyed sweetness contrasts and balances the salty, savoury notes of the blue mould. A robust red wine, like a Shiraz or a Zinfandel, can also stand up to the cheese’s flavour. Alternatively, a sweet cider or a dark ale offers a fantastic local beverage pairing option.
Suitable Fruit and Vegetables
Fresh pears and crisp apples are classic accompaniments for Cashel Blue. Their juicy sweetness and slight acidity provide a refreshing contrast to the cheese’s creamy saltiness. Ripe figs, either fresh or in jam form, offer a luscious, honeyed flavour that enhances the blue cheese experience. Dried fruits like apricots or dates also work wonderfully.
For vegetables, celery sticks and endive leaves offer a refreshing, bitter crunch. Walnuts and pecans are the ideal nutty partners, adding texture and a toasted flavour that complements the blue mould. A drizzle of honey over the cheese and nuts creates a perfect sweet and savoury bite. A simple salad of bitter leaves with a walnut oil vinaigrette is another excellent choice.
Suitable Meat and Fish dishes
Cashel Blue is a superb cheese for enhancing meat dishes. It makes a luxurious sauce for steak, particularly a grilled rib-eye or sirloin. Crumbled over a burger during the last minutes of cooking, it melts into a deliciously tangy topping. It can also be stirred into a beef or lamb stew to add depth and richness just before serving.
The cheese pairs well with charcuterie, especially with salty cured meats like prosciutto or salami. For fish, it works best with robust flavours. It can be used as a stuffing for chicken breasts or pork chops, melting into a creamy pocket of flavour. Its strength is enough to stand up to game birds like pheasant or duck.
Presentation
Remove Cashel Blue from the refrigerator at least one hour before serving. This allows it to reach the ideal temperature of around 15 to 18°C, where its texture becomes creamier and its flavours more pronounced. Serve it on a large wooden board or a slate platter to provide a neutral background that highlights the cheese’s colour.
Present the whole wedge or wheel to allow guests to appreciate its form before cutting. Use a strong cheese wire or a knife dedicated to blue cheeses to prevent flavour transfer to other cheeses on a board. Provide a separate knife for guests to serve themselves. Arrange accompaniments like crackers, fruit, and nuts around the cheese, not on top of it, to keep the presentation clean.
Recipe Ideas
Cashel Blue and Pear Filo Tartlets
These elegant tartlets make a perfect starter or canapé for a dinner party. The sweetness of the pear perfectly offsets the salty tang of the Cashel Blue. The crisp filo pastry provides a light and delicate contrast to the creamy filling. They are surprisingly simple to prepare yet deliver a sophisticated flavour combination.
You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before baking. This makes them an excellent choice for entertaining. They pair beautifully with a glass of dry Riesling or a sparkling Prosecco. The recipe serves six people as a starter.
- 6 sheets of filo pastry
- 50g melted butter
- 2 ripe pears, peeled and thinly sliced
- 150g Cashel Blue cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp honey
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 50g walnut pieces, toasted
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan).
- Brush each sheet of filo with melted butter and layer them together. Cut into six squares.
- Press each square into a muffin tin to form a cup.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove from the oven.
- Arrange pear slices in each pastry case. Top with crumbled Cashel Blue.
- Return to the oven for 5 minutes until the cheese is soft.
- Drizzle with honey, sprinkle with walnuts and black pepper. Serve immediately.
Irish Beef Burger with Cashel Blue
This burger elevates a classic pub favourite to a gourmet experience. The robust flavour of high-quality Irish beef stands up wonderfully to the strong character of the blue cheese. The cheese melts into a rich, creamy sauce that permeates the burger. It is a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for a weekend meal.
Using good, coarse-ground beef is key to a juicy texture. Toasting the brioche buns adds a necessary crunch and prevents sogginess. Serve with crispy fries or a simple green salad on the side. This recipe makes four substantial burgers.
- 500g high-quality beef mince (20% fat)
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper
- 150g Cashel Blue cheese, sliced or crumbled
- 4 brioche burger buns
- 1 beef tomato, sliced
- Handful of rocket leaves
- In a bowl, mix the beef mince, grated onion, and Worcestershire sauce. Season well.
- Divide the mixture into four and shape into patties, slightly wider than your buns.
- Heat a grill pan or barbecue to high. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes each side for medium.
- In the last minute of cooking, top each patty with the Cashel Blue to melt.
- Meanwhile, lightly toast the cut sides of the brioche buns.
- Assemble the burgers: bottom bun, rocket leaves, beef patty with cheese, tomato slice, top bun.
- Serve immediately with your chosen sides.
Similar Cheeses and Alternatives
For those who enjoy Cashel Blue, other creamy blue cheeses offer similar experiences. Its closest relative is perhaps Crozier Blue, also made by the Grubb family but from sheep’s milk, which results in a slightly richer and tangier flavour. Another excellent Irish alternative is Young Buck, a raw milk blue cheese from Northern Ireland with a more robust and earthy profile. For a classic French equivalent, Bleu d’Auvergne provides a similarly creamy texture and mild blue flavour, though it is often slightly saltier. Danish Blue (Danablu) is another option, though it is typically firmer and more sharply saline than the creamy Cashel. Gorgonzola Dolce from Italy is another creamy blue, but it tends to be sweeter and less complex. The choice of alternative often depends on whether one prefers a milder, creamier blue or is seeking a stronger, more piquant experience.
Cashel Blue cheese: Questions and answers
What foods pair well with Cashel Blue cheese?
Cashel Blue cheese pairs beautifully with sweet fruits like pears and figs, as well as nuts like walnuts and pecans. It also complements robust wines and stouts, enhancing the overall tasting experience. Consider serving it with a simple salad for a refreshing contrast.
What are some substitutes for Cashel Blue cheese?
If you can’t find Cashel Blue cheese, consider using other creamy blue cheeses like Gorgonzola or Roquefort as substitutes. These alternatives offer similar flavor profiles and textures. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference, as some may be stronger than Cashel Blue.
Is Cashel Blue cheese safe to eat?
Yes, Cashel Blue cheese is safe to eat as long as it has been stored correctly and is within its shelf life. Always check for any unusual odors or mold that is not characteristic of blue cheese. If in doubt, it’s best to discard it.
What is the shelf life of Cashel Blue cheese?
Cashel Blue cheese typically has a shelf life of about 2 to 3 weeks when stored properly in the refrigerator. After opening, consume it within a week for optimal flavor. Always check for any signs of spoilage before use.
Where can I buy Cashel Blue cheese?
Cashel Blue cheese is available at specialty cheese shops, gourmet grocery stores, and online retailers. Look for it in the cheese article, often near other artisan cheeses. Ensure it is properly stored and check the expiration date for freshness.
How should I cut Cashel Blue cheese for serving?
When cutting Cashel Blue cheese, use a strong cheese wire or a dedicated knife to prevent flavor transfer. Cut it into wedges or slices, allowing guests to serve themselves. Presenting it whole allows for a beautiful display before cutting.
What are the best ways to eat Cashel Blue cheese?
Cashel Blue cheese can be enjoyed on its own or paired with fruits, nuts, and crackers. It also works wonderfully in gourmet burgers or as a topping for steaks. Experiment with drizzling honey over it for a delightful sweet and savory combination.
How should I cool Cashel Blue cheese before serving?
Before serving, allow Cashel Blue cheese to sit at room temperature for about one hour. This cooling period, ideally around 15 to 18°C, enhances its creamy texture and brings out its flavors. Avoid serving it straight from the fridge to fully appreciate its taste.
What is the best way to store Cashel Blue cheese?
To store Cashel Blue cheese, wrap it in wax paper or parchment and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain its moisture while preventing it from absorbing other odors. Ideally, consume it within a week for the best flavor and texture.
How can I best use Cashel Blue cheese in my recipes?
Cashel Blue cheese can enhance a variety of dishes, from salads to sauces. Its creamy texture makes it perfect for melting over meats or incorporating into dressings. Try crumbling it over roasted vegetables or mixing it into pasta for a rich flavor boost.