per 100 grams
Carbohydrates 0.5 g
0.5%
Proteins 20.8 g
20.8%
Fats 27.7 g
27.7%
Water 48.4 g
48.4%
Sugar 0.5 grams
Fiber 0 ug
Ash 2.7 grams

Brie Cheese

334 Calories per 100g

What is a Brie Cheese?

Brie cheese is a soft and creamy cheese produced in the Brie region of northern France. It’s a pasteurised cow's milk product, with a slightly elastic texture and a flavour that varies from mild to tangy. It's popular as a snack and its flavour pairs nicely with many complementary flavours. This article will discuss the history, production processes, and characteristics of Brie cheese.

A Brief History of Brie Cheese

The Brie region where Brie cheese is produced is named after the Brie tribe, a Celtic people who lived in northern France prior to the arrival of the Romans. It’s believed that Brie cheese was made in the Brie area as early as the 8th century, but it only began to become popular in the late 17th century. Throughout the 19th century, the popularity of Brie cheese spread throughout Europe and eventually reached the United States in the late 19th century. Today, it can be found all around the globe.

Production Process for Brie Cheese

The production process for Brie cheese begins with the production of the starter culture. This starter culture is made from raw milk that contains the beneficial live cultures needed for the cheese-making process, as well as salt and other additives. The starter is added to pasteurised cow’s milk and heated to about 86°F (30°C). The enzymes produced by the starter culture break down the proteins and fats in the milk, resulting in the formation of ‘curds’.

Once the curds have been formed, they are put into molds where they are drained and allowed to rest for several hours. The molds are then placed in a brining tank filled with brine, where they rest for another several hours. During this time, bacteria in the brine breaks down the proteins and fats in the cheese, making it easier to cut and shape the Brie cheese.

Next, the cheese is transferred to ripening rooms, where it is aged for several weeks. During this time, the cheese develops its characteristic flavour and becomes soft and creamy. Finally, the cheese is cut into wheels, which are wrapped in parchment paper and labeled before being shipped to local, regional, and international markets.

Characteristics of Brie Cheese

Brie cheese is a soft cheese, with a creamy and slightly elastic texture. The rind is soft and edible and it may be white, grey, yellow, or orange, depending on how it is made. The flavours of Brie cheese range from mild to tangy. When fully ripe, Brie cheese should be somewhat soft to the touch and have a slightly runny texture.

Brie cheese is considered to be a healthy food as it is low in fat, calories and cholesterol. Unlike other types of cheese, Brie is high in protein, niacin and Vitamin B12. Additionally, it contains beneficial live cultures and probiotics which can help to improve digestion, boost the immune system and improve overall health.

When pairing Brie cheese with other foods, it is generally best to choose complementary flavours - such as fresh fruits, nuts, and crackers - that will bring out the unique characteristics of the cheese rather than overpower them. Additionally, Brie pairs nicely with red or white wines, or Champagne.

Brie cheese is a delicious cheese that is popular all around the world. Its creamy texture and mild-to-tangy flavour profile make it a perfect snack, appetiser, or dessert cheese. Brie cheese is also considered to be a healthy food as it is low in fat, calories and cholesterol, and high in beneficial live cultures and probiotics. When pairing with other flavours, it’s generally best to choose those that are complementary and will bring out the best in the cheese.