The Versatility of Havarti

Havarti is a Danish cheese that received its name from the farm in which it was developed. It is generally aged about three months and is a mild cheese. Rennet is added to milk during the creating process to cause curdling. It is then pressed into cheese molds and aged.

Since it is a softer cheese it is easily transformed for cooking and is used in a wide variety of dishes. Havarti is best known for its subtle flavor and buttery aroma. If the cheese is left to age longer than the usual three months it can take on a salty taste with the flavor of hazelnut.

Havarti has not been around as long as other cheeses but in its short history it has become quite popular. Many a party has had the Havarti spread on hand alongside crackers and fruits. Since it is easy to find - generally found in almost any supermarket - and generally affordable, it can be used often. As with most cheeses, Havarti compliments many dishes. It can be melted atop bread for a light snack or arranged on a tray along with fruits and nuts, figs or even raisins. It goes great as an appetizer - create mini sandwich wedges and top them with cucumber, dill, olives and anything else you may want to add.

Havarti also goes wonderful on any bread. It can also be served with your favorite salad to give it some substance. Since Havarti can also be sold as a spread, it is also available in stores combined with garlic, caraway, basil, dill, sour cream, chives and cranberry to name a few. These spreads are already blended together to give you a terrific side for your favorite crackers.

Because of its ability to be reduced, Havarti goes with hot foods as well. Anything that you can think of that cheese can be added to you can use Havarti. It is often melted on food items such as hot Paninis with your favorite deli meats, a hot dog, warm chicken sandwich, grilled cheese, burgers and everyone's favorite - macaroni and cheese. The mild yet subtle taste allows for it to be versatile and added to almost anything without overpowering the dish.

Whether you like your cheese with a nice glass of wine and crackers or on a warm sandwich pressed on the grill, Havarti is a cheese that only stands to grow in popularity.

Dofino USA specializes in the manufacture of many delicious cheeses. Find out how you can try their award winning Havarti cheese