Salt & Straw is known for its bold and creative flavors. Founded in Portland, Oregon, the brand has become famous for pushing the boundaries of traditional ice cream. Among its many unique offerings, one flavor stands out: Goat Cheese Ice Cream. This flavor is a blend of creamy goat cheese and complementary ingredients, creating a one-of-a-kind dessert experience.
But what makes this ice cream so special? How does goat cheese fit into the world of frozen treats? And is this flavor worth trying? In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Salt & Straw’s Goat Cheese Ice Cream.
The Story Behind Salt & Straw
Salt & Straw started as a small ice cream cart in 2011. Founders Kim and Tyler Malek wanted to create a brand that celebrated local ingredients and experimental flavors. They quickly gained a loyal following, leading to the opening of multiple scoop shops across the U.S.
The brand’s philosophy is centered on quality, creativity, and collaboration. They work closely with local farmers, cheesemakers, and artisans to craft unique flavors. Goat Cheese Ice Cream is a perfect example of their innovative approach.
Why Goat Cheese in Ice Cream?
A Bold Choice
Goat cheese is not a common ingredient in ice cream. Traditionally, ice cream relies on cow’s milk for its smooth texture and mild flavor. Goat cheese, on the other hand, has a tangy and slightly earthy taste. This makes it an unconventional yet intriguing choice for ice cream.
Creamy and Tangy
Goat cheese has a naturally creamy texture, which helps create a rich and smooth ice cream base. Its tangy notes balance the sweetness of the ice cream, offering a more complex flavor profile than traditional dairy-based treats.
Pairing Possibilities
One of the reasons Salt & Straw excels at creating unique flavors is their ability to pair ingredients thoughtfully. Goat cheese pairs beautifully with fruits, honey, nuts, and herbs. This opens the door to countless creative variations.
Exploring Salt & Straw’s Goat Cheese Flavors
Salt & Straw has introduced several goat cheese-based flavors over the years. Here are a few standout variations:
Goat Cheese Marionberry Habanero
This flavor combines tangy goat cheese with sweet marionberries and a hint of spicy habanero. The result is a sweet, spicy, and creamy experience that surprises your taste buds.
Goat Cheese and Cherry
In this variation, rich goat cheese is blended with tart cherries. The combination of creamy, tangy, and fruity elements makes for a refreshing and satisfying scoop.
Honey Lavender with Goat Cheese
For those who enjoy floral flavors, this combination is a dream. The smooth, tangy goat cheese is infused with sweet honey and aromatic lavender, creating a sophisticated and delicate ice cream.
How Does It Taste?
First Impressions
At first glance, Goat Cheese Ice Cream looks similar to any other premium ice cream. It has a rich, creamy texture that is smooth and inviting. But the moment you take a bite, you realize it’s something different.
The Flavor Journey
The initial taste is creamy and slightly sweet, just like traditional ice cream. Then, the tangy, slightly earthy notes of goat cheese start to emerge. Depending on the variation, you might also experience bursts of fruitiness, floral notes, or even a touch of spice.
Aftertaste
Unlike standard vanilla or chocolate ice cream, Goat Cheese Ice Cream has a lingering taste. The tanginess stays on your palate, making each bite an experience rather than just a simple dessert.
How Is It Made?
Selecting High-Quality Ingredients
Salt & Straw prioritizes using the best ingredients. For their Goat Cheese Ice Cream, they source fresh, high-quality goat cheese from local creameries.
The Base Process
- Cream and Goat Cheese Blend – The ice cream base is made with fresh cream, sugar, and goat cheese. The goat cheese is carefully blended to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Balancing the Flavors – Depending on the variation, ingredients like fruit, honey, or herbs are added to balance the tanginess of the goat cheese.
- Churning to Perfection – The mixture is churned at a controlled temperature to create a smooth and airy texture.
- Freezing and Setting – Once churned, the ice cream is frozen at an optimal temperature to maintain its creamy consistency.
Is It Worth Trying?
Who Will Love It?
If you enjoy trying new flavors and appreciate the taste of goat cheese, this ice cream is a must-try. Food enthusiasts who enjoy bold flavor combinations will likely find it exciting and delicious.
Who Might Not Like It?
Those who prefer classic ice cream flavors like vanilla or chocolate might find Goat Cheese Ice Cream too unusual. The tangy aftertaste may also not appeal to everyone.
Availability
Salt & Straw’s Goat Cheese Ice Cream is not always available year-round. The brand frequently rotates its flavors, so it’s best to check their menu or website for availability.
How to Pair Goat Cheese Ice Cream
Toppings
To enhance the flavor of Goat Cheese Ice Cream, consider these toppings:
- Honey – Adds natural sweetness and balances the tanginess.
- Candied Nuts – Provides crunch and a nutty contrast.
- Fresh Berries – Complements the creaminess with bright fruit flavors.
- Dark Chocolate Shavings – Adds richness and depth.
Serving Suggestions
- In a Waffle Cone – The crispiness of a waffle cone pairs beautifully with the smooth texture.
- With a Cheese Board – A scoop of Goat Cheese Ice Cream can be an unexpected but delightful addition to a gourmet cheese board.
- As a Dessert Topping – Serve it alongside warm pastries for a sweet and tangy contrast.
Conclusion
Salt & Straw’s Goat Cheese Ice Cream is not just a novelty—it’s a well-crafted, flavorful treat that showcases the brand’s commitment to innovation. Its creamy, tangy, and balanced taste offers something truly unique in the world of ice cream.
For those willing to step outside their comfort zone, this ice cream is a delightful surprise. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with other ingredients, it’s a flavor that deserves a try.
So, is Salt & Straw’s Goat Cheese Ice Cream a game-changer? For adventurous food lovers, the answer is a resounding yes.
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