Marinated Cheese (Czech Republic Nakládaný Hermelín)

For the Czech Republic appetizer I chose a delicious marinated cheese recipe, which is considered pub fare for the starter of the meal. Hermelín is a soft cheese that originates from Central Bohemia. If you cannot find this type of cheese you can substitute camembert or brie which is what I used for this recipe. This is one of those recipes that you can easily add or subtract ingredients to your taste. Please note that this recipe takes several days to marinade so plan accordingly.

1 pkg Hermelín, camembert or brie cheese
1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 white or red onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. dried thyme
1 tsp. dried crushed red pepper
1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
ground paprika
sea salt

Sauté the onion and garlic until they are softened.

Cut the cheese into 1” cubes.

In a bowl, combine the spices including the jalapeños and combine together.

Add the softened onions and garlic to the spice mixture and combine. Stir in the cheese and mix until it is well coated. Put everything into your sterilized mason jar and cover with olive oil. Close the lid tight and shake to evenly distribute all the ingredients. Refrigerate for about 4-5 days.

It is common for the olive oil to solidify in the refrigerator, you can remove the metal cap from the mason jar and place the jar in the microwave and just reheat until you see the oil become liquid, the cheese will actually melt slightly in the process which is simply delicious.

Spoon the mixture on bread or crackers and serve.

Makes 4 servings.