July 10/22 - How to eat cheese the right way...apparently there is a way!

In Paris at the Butter Class, we also had a cheese making class!
Cheese is a BIG deal here in France!
(see June 3 for the Butter Blog)

Making your own cheese is WAY too much work, I would never do it and can't even begin to post the process!
So I thought I would post about cheese etiquette which is something I learned here in France.

I realized we are VERY relaxed in North America about eating but the French are definitely still following etiquette. This picture is our picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower. This is ALL wrong! Check out my butchered block of cheese in the top right side by the cherries. Trust me, when in France you better follow the rules or risk that "look" that you have been taken from the backwoods of Canada.

There are rules and cheese is SERIOUS business here! I learned this right away staying with the family in France.
Cheese comes right before dessert, but let it come to room temp before eating.

It is served in either sets 3 or 5 cheeses and bread, never crackers.

The way you cut the cheese is super important so everyone gets an equal part or the rind. Each cheese is cut a certain way, wedges, slices but whatever you do NOT cut the nose of the cheese off! I've attached a pic of some ways but when in doubt Google it!

Cutting the cheese the right way makes sense since how you cut the cheese has to do with leaving a decent serving for the next person, and then leaving the cheese in the best shape to keep it.

Don't take too much or the hostess will think you are a still hungry, never ask for seconds. Quality cheese is somewhat of an expensive dish in France. It should be offered only once (i.e. you don’t ask for seconds) and people should take only what they can eat.

Start with the mildest cheese, then the strongest (never use the word smelly cheese) Eating cheese properly in France is not easy: you should use your knife and bread only, and never touch the cheese with your hands. No fork either. Put the cheese on the  bread in a manageable bite.

Wipe your knife between cheeses or use a different knife for each. Do not cross contaminate the cheese.

Wrapping and storing the cheese in plastic wrap is a huge NO, wax paper or parchment paper only!

Who knew all the rules?
Who's going to follow them?
Who really cares lol?
I do find I cut my cheese more carefully not and it has been better for serving. So I did learn something from France, the traditions are still here, the cheese is amazing and I will forever have a cheese plate after dinner from now on! Cheese is the best dessert and its keto too so it's a win win!

Thank you for following in my journey to writing a book series!
Stay balanced,
LeeAnna