Seafood pairing puzzle: can blue cheese’s boldness elevate shrimp’s delicacy?

The answer to this question is a resounding yes! Blue cheese and shrimp are a classic combination that has been enjoyed by food lovers for centuries. The sharp, salty flavor of blue cheese perfectly complements the sweet, delicate flavor of shrimp. This combination is often used in salads, pasta dishes, and even pizzas.

The Science Behind the Perfect Pairing

So what is it about blue cheese and shrimp that makes them such a perfect match? It all comes down to the science of flavor. Blue cheese is made with a type of mold called Penicillium roqueforti. This mold produces a compound called roquefortine C, which gives blue cheese its characteristic flavor. Roquefortine C is a type of fatty acid that binds to the taste receptors on our tongues. These same receptors are also activated by the amino acids in shrimp. This means that when we eat blue cheese and shrimp together, we experience a synergistic effect that enhances the flavor of both ingredients.

Culinary Applications of Blue Cheese and Shrimp

The combination of blue cheese and shrimp is a versatile one that can be used in a variety of culinary applications. Here are a few ideas:

• Salads: Blue cheese and shrimp are a classic salad combination. Try adding them to a bed of mixed greens with some chopped walnuts and a balsamic vinaigrette.
• Pasta dishes: Blue cheese and shrimp can be added to pasta dishes to create a rich and flavorful sauce. Try them in a creamy Alfredo sauce or a spicy tomato sauce.
• Pizzas: Blue cheese and shrimp can be added to pizzas as a topping. They go especially well with a white pizza with a garlic-infused olive oil base.
• Appetizers: Blue cheese and shrimp can be used to make delicious appetizers. Try them wrapped in prosciutto or baked in phyllo dough.

Health Benefits of Blue Cheese and Shrimp

In addition to being delicious, blue cheese and shrimp are also good for you. Blue cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamins B2 and B12. Shrimp is a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B12.

How to Choose the Best Blue Cheese for Shrimp

When choosing a blue cheese to pair with shrimp, it is important to select a cheese that has a strong flavor. Avoid mild blue cheeses, as they will not stand up to the flavor of the shrimp. Some of the best blue cheeses to pair with shrimp include:

• Roquefort
• Gorgonzola
• Stilton
• Cambozola

How to Cook Shrimp with Blue Cheese

There are many different ways to cook shrimp with blue cheese. Here is a simple recipe for a grilled shrimp with blue cheese sauce:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine the blue cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and stir to coat.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve the shrimp with the blue cheese sauce.

Variations on the Blue Cheese and Shrimp Theme

The combination of blue cheese and shrimp is a classic, but there are many ways to vary this theme. Here are a few ideas:

• Add some chopped walnuts or almonds to the blue cheese sauce.
• Use a different type of blue cheese, such as Gorgonzola or Stilton.
• Add some cooked bacon to the blue cheese sauce.
• Serve the blue cheese and shrimp over a bed of pasta or rice.
• Grill the shrimp with a blue cheese glaze.

Final Thoughts

The combination of blue cheese and shrimp is a match made in culinary heaven. This classic pairing is versatile and can be used in a variety of culinary applications. So next time you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-prepare meal, give blue cheese and shrimp a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use other types of seafood with blue cheese?
A: Yes, you can use other types of seafood with blue cheese, such as crab, lobster, or scallops.

Q: What is the best way to store blue cheese?
A: Blue cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 2 weeks.

Q: Can I freeze blue cheese?
A: Yes, you can freeze blue cheese. It will keep for up to 6 months.