If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a cheese counter in Devon, wondering what to pair with that crusty sourdough loaf you just picked up, you’re not alone. There’s something about the tang of sourdough and the richness of local cheese that just works – especially when you’re using the best Devon has to offer. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a cosy night in, or just fancy a snack, getting your sourdough cheese pairing Devon-style can turn a simple platter into something special.
Key Takeaways
- Sourdough’s tangy flavour and chewy texture pair brilliantly with Devon’s classic Cheddars and creamy soft cheeses.
- Mixing local drinks like cider or white wine with your cheese and sourdough makes everything taste even better.
- Simple extras like fruit, honey, or local chutney can really bring out the best in your sourdough cheese pairing Devon.
Artisan Devon Cheeses: Local Flavours on Your Platter
There’s something a bit magic about tucking into a cheese platter that’s properly local. Devon’s got a bunch of cheeses with distinctive character that tell you exactly where they’re from. If you’ve never made a whole meal out of just cheese, bread, and maybe a bottle or two, now’s definitely your time.
Highlighting Classic Devon Cheddar with Sourdough
Let’s be honest, you can’t talk about Devon cheese without nodding to a good mature Cheddar. Locally clothbound, aged properly, not the rubbery stuff from the supermarket—it’s got a bite but finishes creamy, fits perfectly with the tangy snap of real sourdough. Here’s what makes the combo so spot-on:
- The sharper poke from mature Cheddar stands up to sourdough’s tanginess
- Raw country milk gives extra depth (not just salt and fat)
- It holds up whether you’re slicing thin or going for chunky hunks
Best pairing? Break off a chunk of Cheddar, stick it on, and don’t skimp on the bread—Devon’s version is as good as anything in Somerset, just a bit less in-your-face.
Exploring Sharpham Elmhirst and Other Local Specialities
Okay, there’s a lot more to Devon than just Cheddar. You’ve got beauties like Sharpham Elmhirst—unapologetically creamy, a triple-cream that melts at room temp. Then there are regional quirks, like mild blue cheeses from local creameries or the unique taste of handmade varieties like Devon Blue. Throw in a soft brie-style or a subtle goat’s cheese, too, and you’ve got it covered.
A Devon platter worth sharing usually includes:
- A punchy hard cheese (Cheddar or something similar)
- A soft, rich option (like Elmhirst)
- A local blue—creamy, not too spicy
- Something from goats, for a bit of freshness
Trying a new local cheese with friends and a fresh loaf is always an adventure—sometimes you get a surprise favourite or even a flavour combination you never saw coming.
To finish, don’t box yourself in. Devon cheese is about variety, character, and a little bit of cheekiness. Pick up something you’ve not tried before and see how it goes next to your sourdough; you might trip over a combination you love.
The Perfect Sourdough Cheese Pairing in Devon
Pairing bread with cheese sounds pretty easy at first, right? But if you’ve ever stood at the bakery counter, staring at three different loaves and not having a clue which to grab for your cheese board, you’ll know there’s a bit more to it. Sourdough’s got a personality of its own—earthy, chewy, with that sharp, tangy kick—and not every Devon cheese wants to hang out with it.
Selecting Sourdough to Complement Regional Cheeses
The classic bubbly sourdough is a natural match for bold, crumbly cheddars made locally, but it does loads more. Here’s what to keep in mind when picking your loaf:
- Go for a bread with a strong, crusty finish. It’ll hold up against soft, creamy cheeses and stop things from getting too soggy.
- Rye or seeded sourdough gives a nutty lift to milder cheeses like Sharpham’s Rusty.
- If you’re going for blues or washed-rind cheeses (like the ones in this selection of top-rated washed-rind cheeses), sourdough’s sourness cuts through the richness in every bite.
You don’t have to stick to one kind of bread, either. A real local platter feels much more fun if you mix and match—I’ve served up classic white, dark rye, and even a herby sourdough all together and watched everyone pick their favourites.
Pairing Tips: Balancing Tang, Texture and Taste
An epic cheese and sourdough platter is all about balance. Here are the small tweaks that can make a big difference:
- Don’t let things get too sharp. Strong sourdough is perfect for mellow, creamy cheeses—triple-creams love the contrast, while nutty Devon cheddars meet their match in a crusty edge.
- Keep the crumb in mind! Slice your sourdough thick if you’re serving oozy cheeses, or go thin to show off hard cheeses.
- Toasting, even just a little, brings out a level of flavour you might not expect.
| Cheese Type | Ideal Sourdough Pair | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Devon Cheddar | Classic, tangy white | Balances sharpness and chew |
| Blue Cheese | Malted or rye sourdough | Strong enough for bold flavour |
| Triple Cream (e.g., Elmhirst) | Light, airy sourdough | Cushions rich, creamy cheese |
Sometimes the best bites are the ones you throw together without fuss. If it tastes great to you, that’s your pairing—don’t overthink it.
Enhancing Your Devon Cheese Platter with Drinks and Accompaniments
Alright, you’ve got the cheese sorted and you’ve picked up some amazing sourdough—now it’s time for the fun bit: bringing everything together with the right drinks and nibbles for a proper Devon spread. Honestly, it makes a difference. A thoughtful drink or tasty preserve can turn a basic cheese and bread supper into a real showstopper.
Cider, White Wine and Other Local Pourings
Pairing cheese with drinks doesn’t have to be all about red wine. In Devon, you’re spoilt for choice:
- Devon Cider: The natural crispness of local cider is a classic with mature Cheddar or crumbly hard cheeses. Its apple flavour stands up nicely to strong flavours, especially on a sunny evening outside.
- Dry White Wines: A chilled glass of Bacchus or local white is spot-on with creamy cheeses like Sharpham Elmhirst. For something richer, try a fruity Chardonnay with a semi-soft or bloomy cheese—it cuts the richness just right.
- Artisan Coffee: Not just for breakfast. You’d be surprised how a cup from The Daily Knead bakery in Totnes can pull out unexpected flavours with a nutty or caramel cheese.
Here’s a handy table for easy match-ups:
| Cheese | Drink Option | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Mature Devon Cheddar | Traditional Cider | Balances acidity & tang |
| Sharpham Elmhirst | Dry White Wine | Cleanses the palate |
| Blue Cheese | Stout or Local Porter | Adds sweetness and depth |
| Mild Goat’s Cheese | Herbal Tea | Brightens and refreshes |
If you’re not sure what to pour, just pick something local—let the region you’re in give you a nudge.
Fruit, Honey and Preserves to Elevate Cheese with Sourdough
Now, about the accompaniments. The simplest things can make the biggest impact. Take your sourdough and Devon cheeses up a notch with these ideas:
- Chutneys and Fruit Preserves: A spoonful of spiced apple chutney or plum jam brings sweetness, which works wonders with salty or sharp cheeses.
- Honey: Drizzle runny honey over blue cheeses or mild goat cheese for a combo of creamy and sweet.
- Fresh, Dried or Pickled Fruit: Sliced apples, figs, or even a handful of grapes (try them frozen if you fancy something different) work as a palate cleanser.
- Pickled Onions or Gherkins: These are a sharp counterpoint that cuts through the richness of the cheese.
- Nuts and Seeds: Toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds toss in crunch and earthiness.
And don’t be shy about mixing things up from the bread basket either. Some swear by throwing a piece of fruit cake on the board, or you can even try nutty rye crackers along with your sourdough for different textures.
Remember, the whole point is to have a play around—use what you like and what’s around. You’ll only find your favourite platter by trying something new now and then!
Take your Devon cheese platter up a notch by picking the right drinks and snacks. Try pairing creamy cheeses with sweet apple slices or crunchy crackers for more flavour. Sparkling drinks or grape juice also work great. Want more ideas? Visit our website today for easy tips and even more tasty pairings!
Wrapping Up: The Joy of Local Cheese and Sourdough Pairings
So, there you have it – a whole bunch of ideas for matching Devon cheeses with sourdough and a few other tasty bits. Honestly, there’s no right or wrong way to build your platter. Some days you’ll want a classic like Cheddar and apple, other times you might fancy something a bit out there, like blue cheese with honey or even a slice of fruit cake on the side. The best part is just having a go and seeing what you like. Grab a loaf from your local bakery, pick up a wedge or two from the cheesemonger, and don’t be afraid to mix things up. Whether you’re sharing with friends or just treating yourself, it’s all about enjoying good food and discovering new favourites. Cheers to that!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Devon cheeses to try with sourdough bread?
Some top picks from Devon include the classic Devon Cheddar, Sharpham Elmhirst, and Ticklemore Goat. These cheeses all have their own special flavours and textures, which taste amazing with the tang and crunch of fresh sourdough bread.
Do I need to serve anything else with my cheese and sourdough platter?
Definitely! You can add things like apple slices, grapes, chutney, or a drizzle of honey. These extras bring out new flavours in the cheese and bread. Some people also like to add nuts or pickles for more crunch and taste.
What drinks go well with a Devon cheese and sourdough platter?
Local cider is a classic choice and goes really well with most Devon cheeses. White wine, especially something crisp and not too sweet, is also a good match. If you want to try something different, a pale ale or even sparkling apple juice can work great too.
