If Brie is the "popular kid" at the party, Lille Coulommiers is its slightly more sophisticated, mysterious older cousin. Hailing from the same region in France, this soft-ripened cow’s milk cheese is smaller, thicker, and carries a much more concentrated flavor. It features a snowy, bloomy rind and an interior that is decadently fudgy and rich. It’s the best "treat yourself" French cheese, boasting deep notes of butter and sautéed mushrooms. Because it is thicker than a standard Brie, it doesn't "run" as quickly, making it easier to serve. It is the connoisseur's soft cheese, designed for those who want that "clinging-to-the-roof-of-your-mouth" creaminess that only an authentic French wheel can provide. The Recipes Recipe #1: The "Winter Sun" Baked Coulommiers Score the top of the Lille Coulommiers, tuck in a sprig of rosemary and a garlic clove, and bake for 10 minutes. Serve with toasted baguette for a communal dipping appetizer that feels like a trip to a Parisian bistro. Recipe #2: Coulommiers & Fig Jam Grilled Cheese Use thick slices of brioche, spread with fig jam, and add wedges of Coulommiers. This luxury grilled cheese is a fantastic, indulgent lunch for a cozy rainy afternoon. The Appetizers Appetizer #1: The "Snowy" Fruit Board Place the whole wheel in the center of a plate surrounded by red grapes and walnuts. The elegant visual appeal of the white rind makes this a perfect centerpiece for a holiday party. Appetizer #2: Coulommiers & Honeycomb Crostini Top a small toast with a slice of the cheese and a tiny piece of fresh honeycomb. A five-star party snack that plays on the earthy, mushroomy notes of the cheese.
