Havarti with Caraway

Cheese Type: Semi Firm

Country: Denmark

Milk Type: Cow

Havarti with Caraway combines Denmark’s signature semi-soft cheese with whole caraway seeds, a pairing rooted in Northern and Central European tradition where caraway has flavored breads, cabbage, and cheese for centuries.

Flavor Profile

The Havarti base is buttery, mild, and smooth, and the caraway cuts through it with a warm, slightly bittersweet anise and citrus note. The seeds are distributed throughout, so every slice delivers both the creamy dairy character and the aromatic spice. The effect is savory and distinctly Old World, more complex than plain Havarti without being challenging.

How to Use

This is a natural partner for rye bread and dark breads generally, where the caraway echoes flavors already present in the loaf. It melts well over roasted potatoes and cabbage dishes, and it makes an excellent sandwich cheese alongside ham or pastrami. Serve it on a board with mustard and pickles.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair with a Riesling, a wheat beer, or an aquavit. Serve with rye bread, whole grain mustard, cornichons, and cured meats.

Storage

Wrap in wax paper and store in the refrigerator. Best within two to three weeks of cutting.