Introduction: “Wait, BLACK cheese?! You serious?”
If you’re anything like me, when you first hear the words “black cheese,” you do not quite believe what you’ve just seen on the page. Like, excuse me—black cheese? Would that even be a thing, or did someone just forget how to set the timer on the oven for their cheddarkie?Black Cheese UK
Spoiler alert: it’s very real. And it’s the UK foodie scene’s newest love affair in all its goth-glam glory. Picture cutting into a cheese so piercingly dark that even Morticia Addams herself would’ve been the designer — yet it tastes like heaven.Black Cheese UK
In this blog post, we’re going to take a closer look at the inky black world of black cheese in the UK. We’ll explain what exactly it is, why it is so trendy, what it tastes like (spoiler: not burnt), where to get it, how to serve it and why you’re going to want to add it your next cheeseboard or charcuterie platter, like, yesterday.Black Cheese UK
Fasten your seat belts, cheeseheads — it’s about to be dark and decadent.
What Exactly Is Black Cheese?
First off, no—it’s not moldy. And no, it’s nothing like blue cheese just experiencing a bad day.
Black cheese is malware cheese, loaded with jet-black color with natural characters (achievable using activated charcoal, vegetable ash, or perhaps even black garlic or truffle infusions). The cheese can be made from cow’s milk, goat’s milk, or something plant-based (vegan black cheese is now totally a thing) — it depends on the producer.Black Cheese UK
The color may be gothic, but the taste is surprisingly compelling — creamy, intense, nutty and occasionally a little tangy or smoky, depending on the recipe.Black Cheese UK
It’s essentially the cheese world’s equivalent of wearing all black: dramatic, chic and somehow always a vibe.
The Trend: Why Black Cheese Is Blowing Up in the U.K.
So why is everyone in the U.K. suddenly freaking out over black cheese?
The Aesthetic Factor
And let’s face it — black cheese is ridiculously photogenic. So whether you’re a chef, an influencer or even just a sucker for a sick insta-story, that bright charcoal hue makes a bold statement on camera. Cheeseboards? Elevated. Party spreads? Insta-viral. Weddings? Yes, even weddings are getting gothic with black cheese wheels.Black Cheese UK
The Artisan Boom
There has been a genuine groundswell in artisan cheese-making in the UK in the past few years. Independent dairies and innovative producers are where the true dynamism lies — new takes on old-taste traditions, using unexpected flavors and natural dyes and local ingredients. Black cheese is only the more extreme (and yummy) result of that foodie renaissance.Black Cheese UK
Charcoal’s Health Halo
You’ve likely seen activated charcoal everywhere from your Instagram feed doing “detox” shots to toothpaste. The science on its health benefits is mixed, but it is often sold as being “good for digestion.” Cheese with charcoal? So indulgence, with a side of “I’m doing something good for my gut.” Win-win, right?Black Cheese UK
My First and Last Taste of Black Cheese
Okay, story time. My first encounter with black cheese was at a tiny artisan market in Bristol. Picture this: stalls of sourdough everything, local honey, hipster jams and this one stand that had a sign that actually said:Black Cheese UK
“BLACK CHEESE. YES, REALLY.”
Naturally, I was hooked. I tasted a sample, expecting… well, I’m not sure. Something bitter? Smoky? Weird?Black Cheese UK
But it was love at first bite.
The one I sampled was a Black Charcoal Cheddar — aged cheddar with activated charcoal mixed in. It was smooth, with a bit of crumble, and then a kind of earthy flavor that made me want to go back for a second (or third, let’s be real).Black Cheese UK
Since then, I’ve been a full-on proselytizer for the dark side of the dairy.
Types of Black Cheese for sale in the UK: Not-So-Secret List
Ready to explore? Here are some of the most discussed black cheeses around the UK:
1. Black Charcoal Cheddar
Produced by a range of British dairies, this cheese combines mature cheddar with activated charcoal. It’s tangy and firm and just right moody. Great for that gory cheeseboard or Halloween party.
2. Truffle Black Cheese
This one’s extra bougie: cheese spiked with truffle and darkened with natural ash. Imagine umami heaven served with a side of luxe. A couple of posh-brands sell this at boutique cheese-shops in London and Edinburgh.
3. Black Garlic Cheese
Garlic lovers, this one’s for you. The black garlic has a sweet, molasses-y flavour (much milder than raw garlic) and lends the cheese a rich, savoury taste. The black hue? A bonus.
4. Vegan Black Cheese
Yes, vegans, we see you. Plant-based brands like Honestly Tasty and Kinda Co. have joined the trend to make vegan-approved black cheeses with coconut oil, cashew cream or almond milk, dyed with charcoal or black sesame.
5. Ash-Coated Goat Cheese
Not technically “black” on the inside, but its rind is covered in edible vegetable ash. You’ll see this at a higher-end farm shop or on Michelin-level tasting menus.
Where to Buy Black Cheese in the UK
If you’re thinking, “Where the hell do I get this magical goth cheese?” —here’s where to start:
1. Specialist Cheese Shops
Neal’s Yard Dairy (London)
Paxton & Whitfield
The Cheese Geek
George Mewes (Scotland)
These stores usually carry small orders of black cheese, or can order some for you.
2. Online Marketplaces
The Fine Cheese Co.
Cheese Collective
Farmdrop (when available)
Pro tip: Get a sampler box and make it a cheese-tasting evening. (Black cheese, white wine, dark chocolate — have at it.)Black Cheese UK
3. Farmers’ Markets and Local Delis
Don’t sleep on your local deli or weekend market. Artisan producers may sell small-batch, experimental cheeses that never reach the large retailers.Black Cheese UK
What does black cheese taste like?
Credit…Con Poulos for The New York Times. Food stylist: Christine Albano.
If You Like Strong Flavours…
Experiment with black cheddar or truffle-infused kinds. These come at you with an edge and a touch of earthiness too, from the charcoal.Black Cheese UK
If You Prefer Mild…
Opt for goat cheese with ash rind or a soft cheese with black garlic. Those are gentler, and creamier, too.
Is the Charcoal Taste Weird?
Honestly? It’s barely there. Charcoal doesn’t have the taste of anything, really. It contributes the faintest smoky note, but really it’s about texture and colour.
How to Serve Black Cheese (Like a Pro)
Looking to impress at your next party, date night, or wine-and-Netflix night alone? So here’s how to let black cheese shine:Black Cheese UK
Build a Dark-Themed Cheese Board
Pair black cheese with:
White cheeses in contrast (Brie, Stilton)
Concentrated red fruits (figs, black grapes)
Charcoal crackers (yes, they exist)
Red wine or even a dark ale
Use It to Melt on Burgers or Grilled Sandwiches
It’s like a black grilled cheese or something. Instagram will break.
Great for Halloween and Gothic Dishes
The recipe is easily thrown on pizzas; salads; or, I love it on pasta.
Make it a Conversation Starter
After all, let’s get serious, nothing drums up a good conversation like “Did you know this cheese is black?”
Is Black Cheese Healthy?
One quick disclaimer: I am not a nutritionist, just a cheese enthusiast.
But generally speaking:
There may be detoxifying aspects of activated charcoal on a very small level.
According to the conventional wisdom, cheese is loaded with calcium, protein and fats.
As with all the good things in life—everything in moderation.
Vegan versions can be less cholesterol-laden and more diet-agreeable, while traditional versions are heartier and more satisfying if you’re all-in on dairy.Black Cheese UK
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Cheese (And Let’s Be Honest, You’re Probably Wondering It…)
Is it safe to eat?
Absolutely. Food grade charcoal or ash is used and is regulated in the UK.
Does it stain your teeth?
Unless you go wild with it or eat a wheel by yourself (not that I’d judge). If you are concerned, rinse your mouth or drink some water after eating.Black Cheese UK
Can you cook with it?
Yes! It melts beautifully. Add it to mac ‘n cheese, toasties, sauces or risottos for a change.
Best UK Brands & Independent Makers To Follow
Here are a few names to Google, follow or lovingly stalk on Instagram:
Godminster – Their black wax encased cheddar is iconic.
Black Cow Cheese – It’s cheese made from the milk that’s left over after making vodka (Seriously).
Nettlebed Creamery
La Fauxmagerie – The UK’s first plant based cheese shop.
My Black Cheese Party Night (A Real One)
I held a “black cheese and wine night” last winter. Each person was supposed to bring something dark: red wine, dark chocolate, stout beer, and yes — black cheese.Black Cheese UK
We dimmed the lights, put on some moody jazz, lit some candles and feasted. The cheese was a hit. At first people were doubtful, but then they took a sip? Game over.
One of my friends who is a cheese skeptic said, “All right, this is actually pretty good.” He went home with leftovers. I returned home feeling like a kitchen goddess.
The Verdict: Gimmick or Gourmet in Black Cheese?
Honestly? It’s both.
Sure, the aesthetic is what makes it trendy. Yes, it is a dream to photograph. But at its foundation, black cheese is a truly delicious, well-made product. This isn’t a gimmick — it’s an experience.
And in a food world where food is as much about feeling and sharing as it is flavor, black cheese delivers big time.
Converting to Dark Mode:
Conclusion:
Symbol of black hat hackers, anonymity on thRead more Exchange Online is a cloud-based email client and it offers support for both Dark Mode and Light Mode.
If you’ve come this far, you’re probably well and truly intrigued. So here’s your mission:
Go out. Find some black cheese. Try it. Share it. Talk about it.
Whether you’re a lover of cheese or no more than a lover of food that’s a little different but full of flavor, black cheese is one UK food trend worth sinking your teeth into.
And when your friends ask, “Wait, is your cheese… black?” —you get to smile and say “Oh yes. And it’s fabulous.”
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