Brie aux Noix: The Classic French Walnut & Brie Cheese Pairing

The Classic French Brie aux Noix

Brie aux noix, sometimes referred to as brie with walnuts, is a classic French cheese dish pairing the soft ripened brie with chopped or whole walnuts. With roots in the Île-de-France region where brie originates, it has become popular across France and internationally as a simple yet flavorful cheese recipe.

The Rich Tradition of Brie Cheese

Brie has a long history in French gastronomy, first mentioned in the 8th century in the region of Brie. Brie de Meaux and Brie de Melun were originally called the “King’s Cheeses” and were favorites amongst French royalty through the centuries. Brie starts its life unripened and is then aged around 5 weeks for proper ripening.

This process produces the signature soft, creamy interior that oozes out when the brie rind is cut. By French law, authentic brie can only be made in the Brie region using local milk and traditional production methods that qualify it as an AOC product. When perfectly ripened, it strikes a balance of rich, buttery flavor with traces of fresh acidity.

The Perfect Accompaniment: Walnuts

While brie can be enjoyed by itself, pairing it with walnuts, referred to as noix in French, adds flavor and texture. France is the 2nd largest producer of walnuts worldwide after China. Much like wine regions, the terroir and climate of southern France including Grenoble, Périgord, and Lyon impact the flavor of French walnuts.

They have a rounded sweetness that complements brie’s creamy mouthfeel and tang without overpowering it the way other nuts might. The crunch of the walnut against the smooth brie makes for satisfying bite after bite.

Creating the Perfect Brie aux Noix

This classic yet simple recipe only calls for two ingredients, but quality and preparation are key. Start with the best ingredients possible, like an artisanal brie from a local fromagerie and fresh French walnuts.

Make sure to pick brie that has fully ripened for a soft texture that practically oozes decadence. Choose whole walnuts or chop them into the size you prefer to adorn the cheese. Slice off the top rind of brie before placing it on a platter with the walnuts scattered around it.

You can also stick to tradition by specifically seeking out Brie de Meaux or Brie de Melun AOC. Serve at room temperature with slices of a fresh baguette or crackers.

Enjoying Brie aux Noix the French Way

Part of brie aux noix's popularity in France comes from its versatility and simplicity. It appears on cheese boards at cocktail parties, as a first course at dinners when drizzled with honey, and even as a snack paired with fruit.

You can take it on picnics and as a dish to share at outdoor meals in true French fashion. It also makes regular appearances around the holidays, especially over the winter months and through New Year's celebrations.

While it originated as a specialty in the Île-de-France region as a natural combination of two ingredients produced nearby, brie aux noix can be found across France. Specialty fromageries craft their own versions to highlight local walnuts and artisanal brie.

Bringing France Home Through Brie aux Noix

Recreating this iconic cheese pairing allows you to capture the essence of rich French gastronomy. Seek out quality imported brie and walnuts from France if available to stay authentic to the classic dish.

As you take your first bite and the creamy brie couples with the crunch of the walnut, let it transport you to a quaint French café or a glamorous French dinner party.

Each component melds together to form a flavor experience treasured in France for centuries. The simplicity and purity of ingredients is what makes brie aux noix a perennial favorite that lets the quality of the cheese and nuts speak for itself.

FAQs

What type of brie should I use for brie aux noix?

An artisanal brie from a local fromagerie or creamery is best. Make sure it's soft and fully ripened. Brie de Meaux and Brie de Melun AOC offer authentic flavor.

What are the best walnuts to pair with brie?

Fresh walnuts from France provide balanced sweetness that pairs nicely with brie. Seek out quality Grenoble or Périgord walnuts if possible.

How should I serve brie aux noix?

Serve at room temperature with slices of fresh baguette or crackers on a cheese board or platter. Can also be enjoyed by itself as a snack.

Is brie aux noix served year-round or only for holidays?

While popular around the winter holidays, brie aux noix can be enjoyed year-round as a versatile French specialty in restaurants and homes.