Questions About Brie: Leave Rind On & Eat It?
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Discussion Overview
The thread explores opinions and experiences regarding the consumption of Brie cheese, specifically whether to leave the rind on and if it is edible. Participants share their personal preferences and cooking insights related to Brie.
Discussion Character
- Anecdotal
- Opinion-based
Main Points Raised
- One participant mentions they are not a Brie eater and asks if the rind should be left on and if it is edible.
- Another participant expresses a dislike for the rind, stating they cannot make themselves enjoy it.
- Several participants confirm that the rind should be left on and is edible, but it is a personal choice whether to eat it.
- One participant shares that leaving the rind on while cooking prevents a mess, as the cheese will melt properly.
- Another participant enthusiastically states they enjoy the rind and can eat all of it without hesitation.
- Some participants discuss the pecan Brie recipe, emphasizing the importance of keeping the rind on during preparation.
- One participant shares a historical anecdote about Charlemagne and the rind, noting that some people find the rind bland and choose not to eat it.
- Another participant describes their enjoyment of Brie with apricot jam and pecans, highlighting that their guests love it.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Views differ on the enjoyment of the rind, with some participants liking it and others expressing distaste. There is general agreement on the idea of leaving the rind on during cooking.
Contextual Notes
Participants share their personal experiences and preferences regarding Brie cheese, with no authoritative guidance provided.
Who May Find This Useful
Consultants interested in cooking techniques and personal experiences related to Brie cheese may find this discussion relevant.
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Q: I saw Martha baking Brie on her show on Saturday. I noticed she did not remove the white covering. I am new to brie and thought you were supposed to cut this off. Is it OK to always leave it on?
A: In The World of Cheese, Evan Jones recounted a story of Charlemagne tasting a new cheese for the first time at the table of a French bishop. "When the great man discarded the cheese's edible mold and ate only the rich, creamy paste, the distressed bishop asked, 'Why do you do that, my lord emperor? You are throwing away the best part!'" The story ends with Charlemagne eating the rind, and eventually bestowing lands and riches on the bishop. Whether it was Brie or Camembert or another cheese with an edible rind, Jones did not say.
But, like the emperor, you can certainly eat the rind, although we don't know whether you'll agree that it is the best part. The rind or skin is formed naturally by molds and bacteria on the surface of the cheese, which start out as fine white hairs and grow to what the French call poil de chat, or cat fur. The fur is rubbed off, and underneath is a thin rind encasing the nearly fluid interior of the cheese.
Some people find the skin rather bland and don't eat it. Bries (and all commercially produced cheeses in this country) are made from pasteurized milk, which may account for the rather uninspired taste of the rind. It would be a huge mess and enormous waste of time to remove the rind from a wheel of brie before baking it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you eat the rind of Brie cheese?
Yes, the rind of Brie cheese is edible and is often enjoyed for its unique flavor and texture. Many cheese lovers appreciate the contrast between the creamy interior and the earthy rind.
What is the purpose of the rind on Brie cheese?
The rind on Brie cheese serves several purposes: it protects the cheese during aging, contributes to the flavor profile, and provides a textural contrast to the soft interior. The rind is formed by a specific mold that helps develop the cheese's characteristic taste.
Does the rind of Brie cheese have a strong flavor?
The rind of Brie cheese has a mild, earthy flavor that can be slightly tangy. While some people enjoy the taste, others may find it too strong or not to their liking. It's a matter of personal preference whether to eat the rind or not.
How should Brie cheese be served with the rind on?
Brie cheese can be served with the rind on at room temperature, allowing its flavors to fully develop. It pairs well with fruits, nuts, crackers, and bread. When serving, you can cut wedges or slices, ensuring that each piece includes some rind for a balanced taste experience.
Are there any health considerations when eating the rind of Brie cheese?
For most people, eating the rind of Brie cheese is safe and healthy. However, individuals with mold allergies or specific dietary restrictions should consult with a healthcare professional before consuming it. Additionally, ensure that the cheese is fresh and properly stored to avoid any food safety issues.
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