The ascent of American goat cheese into culinary stardom traces back to 1980, a pivotal moment when Laura Chenel, a Sonoma cheesemaker, introduced her fresh, sweet, French-style cheeses to Chez Panisse, an iconic hub of California cuisine. Since then, the goat cheese craze has continued to flourish, becoming a cornerstone of the American culinary landscape, embraced by restaurants, cookbooks, and even dedicated goat farms.
The Fresh Appeal of American Goat Cheese
At the heart of this trend are mild and fresh goat cheeses, typically aged for just a week or two before hitting the market. These chevres contribute to a remarkable 85 percent of American Goat cheese sales. The hallmark of fresh Goat cheese is its clean, acidic taste, offering a versatile canvas for various culinary creations. It comes in diverse shapes and sizes, with the log shape or buche being the most prevalent. Notable variations include the button shape, available plain, herb-dusted, pepper-covered, or aged and marinated in olive oils.
Ripened Goat Cheeses: A Growing Sensation
In tandem with the fresh varieties, ripened Goat cheeses are gaining traction among discerning palates. Aged for approximately four weeks, these cheeses undergo a transformative process, developing a distinctive skin and reducing moisture content. The outcome is a delightful chalky texture and a more concentrated flavor profile, adding depth to the goat cheese experience.
Craftsmanship and Culinary Integration
The journey of American Goat cheese is far from static. Cheesemakers across the country continue to refine their craft, expanding their repertoire and earning a revered place in American kitchens. The versatility of goat cheese, from fresh to ripened varieties, allows it to seamlessly integrate into a myriad of dishes, offering chefs and home cooks alike a dynamic and indispensable ingredient.
As American Goat cheesemakers persist in perfecting their art, the evolution from trendy to tried-and-true is evident, solidifying goat cheese as an essential component in the rich tapestry of American culinary culture.”