Cervelle de Canut Recipe: French Cream Cheese Spread with Wine π§π·
Overview:
Cervelle de Canut is a delectable French spread hailing from the beautiful Burgundy region. This creamy delight, traditionally made with quark, a soft curd cheese, takes on a twist using cottage cheese in this adaptation. Perfect for spreading on fresh toast or crackers, it’s a savory sensation ideal for any occasion, be it brunch or a casual lunch/snack affair. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, requiring just 15 minutes of your time (excluding the straining of cottage cheese).
Ingredients:
- 250g cottage cheese
- 100g cream cheese
- 50ml olive oil
- 50ml white wine
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon chervil, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon chives, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Put the cottage cheese in a very fine sieve or a strainer lined with cheesecloth. Let it strain for approximately 4 hours. This process helps achieve a smoother consistency. |
| 2 | Once the cottage cheese has strained, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Add the cream cheese, olive oil, and white wine. Whip the mixture until it forms a smooth and creamy paste. This will be the base of your spread. |
| 3 | Now, it’s time to infuse the spread with flavor. Add the finely chopped shallots, chervil, parsley, and chives to the creamy mixture. These aromatic ingredients will lend depth and freshness to the spread. |
| 4 | Season the spread with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Remember to start with a little and adjust as needed. The shallots and herbs will already contribute some flavor, so go easy on the salt at first. |
| 5 | Once everything is well combined, give the spread a final taste test. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a food processor or immersion blender to achieve your desired consistency. |
| 6 | Transfer the Cervelle de Canut to a serving dish or small ramekins. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This spread can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for entertaining. |
| 7 | Serve the creamy spread with fresh toast, crusty bread, or your favorite crackers. The combination of creamy richness and herbal freshness is sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoy the taste of France with every bite! |
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 274.5 per serving
- Fat: 22.7g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 38.1mg
- Sodium: 363mg
- Carbohydrates: 4.9g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Sugar: 0.4g
- Protein: 11.1g
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs, such as chives or parsley, for a pop of color and flavor.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling beverage for a refreshing accompaniment.
- Spread on baguette slices and top with sliced radishes or cucumber for an elegant appetizer.
Tips:
- For a smoother texture, use a food processor or blender to mix the ingredients.
- If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought quark instead of straining cottage cheese.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
With its creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and easy preparation, Cervelle de Canut is sure to become a staple in your entertaining repertoire. Bon appΓ©tit! π«π·π½οΈ
