Sheep in the Road

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On 25 Jul 2011, at 18:50,
G wrote:
Hello Ruthers,
no, possibly not, there again:
“Herein lies the answer to reader jeffzelli’s question:
...
We’ve discussed how to taste cheese, but how does one
eat it? Especially in a formal setting?
...
Don’t underestimate the service a knife provides. Dinner
knives are perfect for delving into the creamiest of cheeses,
and since they aren’t sharp, eat the cheese directly off of
the knife itself. It’s one of the best ways to eat cheese like a
pro. It also eases the voyage from plate to nose to mouth.
Always smell your cheese before eating: you taste more
with your nose than with your taste buds, actually.
...
It probably goes without saying, but take into consideration
your setting. A dip of the finger into an oozing triple creme
may be better suited for a gastropub than a four star, once
in a lifetime dining experience. But in either situation, do
what makes you feel comfortable-- the most important
rules in the world of cheese are in regards to enjoyment
rather than etiquette!
It is considered impolite in the extreme to put a knife in
or near the mouth when dining. (There are ancient and
psychological reasons for this rule.) I don’t mean ‘eating’:
whatever you do in the privacy of your own kitchen or in
a very informal setting among consenting adults is your
business. But if dining in a fine white table cloth restaurant
or dinner party, the formal place setting and usage is
preferred.
Correct ‘cutlery’ for cheese service is a small (appetiser/
salad) knife and fork and sometimes, if a very runny
cheese is served, a small dessert spoon. The fork, tines
down pointing right; above that, the knife, blade facing
toward the diner, pointing to the left and spoon, if any,
bowl down, pointing left, above the knife.
Also ‘do what you feel comfortable’ is weasely advice to
give someone looking for the socially accepteble (sic) way
of doing anything. The basis of etiquette is not one’s own
comfort, but the comfort and consideration of others. And
once someone is comfortable and confident as to the
expected behaviour, then enjoyment will inevitably ensue.”
G
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