Red Leicester Recipes

Made from cow’s milk, Red Leicester has a smooth, firm and crumbly consistency, and a bright orangey red colouring. The deep colouring of Red Leicester cheese is due to the addition of annatto, a food colourant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, which is added during the making of the cheese.

The flavour of Red Leicester is typically savoury and a little nutty, giving a unique and distinctive flavour to various dishes. The flavour can change slightly, as to the ageing process of the Red Leicester cheese, and whether the variety you use in your recipes is young, mature or vintage; typically the older the Red Leicester gets, the stronger the taste.

Despite being an extremely versatile cheese, Red Leicester is particularly well-suited for many recipes, often even more so than other cheeses. Some of these recipes with Red Leicester include:

• Sandwiches: Red Leicester adds a satisfying and unmistakable punch to any sandwich, including the renowned ploughman’s lunch. This smoked ham and Red Leicester roll with onion marmalade recipe takes just five minutes to prep!
• Soups: Similar to mozzarella or cheddar, Red Leicester has a low melting point, making it perfect when grated over soups.
• Salads: Adding a unique, rich flavour, Red Leicester is perfect for pepping up a salad recipe.
• Casseroles and bakes: Due to its mild, nutty flavour and smooth melting quality, Red Leicester enhances bakes and casseroles without overpowering other ingredients.

In terms of drinks accompaniments, Red Leicester pairs well with full-bodied white wine, pale ales and muscadet. If you’re looking to add a Red Leicester to your charcuterie board, check out what meats and sides to pair with it here.