What Type of Cheese to Use

The cheese that’s typically used in almogrote is called La Gomera, named after the Canarian island. The cheese is made from raw goat’s milk and occasionally mixed with sheep’s milk. For almogrote, cured cheese is used, rather than soft.  

Now, you likely won’t be able to find La Gomera and that’s fine, you have options. Since it’s typically made with goat’s milk, the closest substitution you’ll find is a cured goat’s milk cheese. Alternatively, you can use a cured sheep’s milk cheese or a blend of the two. 

Tip: The older and drier the cheese, the better the flavor. 

Almogrote Recipe Variations

Some almogrote recipes call for the use of tomato. In many of these, the tomato and garlic are lightly roasted in the oven first, then left to cool before adding everything to the food processor. While this still makes for a very tasty dish, it adds time and also makes the cheese and garlic flavor less punchy. 

I love how using raw garlic and no tomatoes gives the cheese pâté its kick, which ideally a pâté should have. The hot smoked paprika also gives it a distinctive flavor, although some recipes use dried ñora peppers instead. Then you even have some more modern recipes appearing that add cumin and even sriracha!

If you want to play around with some variations, consider adding:

• Chili or cayenne pepper – If you like things spicy, you were probably already considering this! It definitely works with this combo, and add whatever your favorite chili or sauce is.
• Roasted tomatoes – If you want to mellow it out then blend some roasted tomatoes into the cheese spread when you process it.
• Roasted garlic – If you want a slightly sweeter, less garlicky hit, then roasting the garlic first will do the trick.

When to Serve Almogrote

Almogrote is great for serving at parties or when you have a number of people over. That’s because you can make it ahead then just take it out of the fridge when you’re ready and let it come to room temperature before serving. 

It’s not just for special occasions though and it works great as part of a tapas spread you might be making for yourself, a loved one, to take on a picnic, or just to indulge. Once you try this, it will be in your fridge on a regular occasion!

What to Serve with Almogrote

Almogrote has a pungent cheese flavor and is quite strong. It is best served with some warm fresh bread or crackers. Food pairings include green grapes, quince paste, walnuts (raw or toasted), and of course, a good Spanish wine. We’ve got plenty of information on cheese and food pairing in our types of Spanish cheese article. 

When serving almogrote, it’s great to serve it alongside some other tapas dishes or party food. Here are a few suggestions:

• Papas Arrugadas with mojo verde and a spicy mojo picón: Another popular tapas recipe from the Canary Islands. This little beauty includes salted potatoes and the delicious mojo sauces to accompany them.
• Sizzling Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al ajillo): You’ll find this classic tapas dish served all over Spain. It’s full of garlic and another one you need bread for to mop up the delicious juices. 
• Anchovy and Pepper Spread (Canapé de Anchoa y Pimiento): Another classic and flavorsome tapas that’s quick and easy to make.
• Shrimp in a Cava Bath (Prawns marinated with Sparkling Wine): This recipe is decadent and festive and sure to enhance any evening. The wine helps sweeten up the shrimp even more.
• Blue Cheese and Sherry Spread: Another Spanish cheese dip and a cheese lover’s dream that ends up creamy and slightly sweet from the sherry.
• Spicy Patatas Bravas: Probably the most famous tapas dish from Spain and goes with virtually anything. 

Nutrition Facts

FAQs

What is almogrote?

Almogrote is a Spanish cheese spread recipe from La Gomera in the Canary Islands. It’s made by blending aged goat’s cheese, olive oil, garlic, and paprika or chili. There are other variations too, which include roasted tomatoes or Ñora pepper.

How does almogrote taste?

Almogrote tastes salty, smoky, mildly garlicky, and ranges from mildly spicy to spicy. You can adjust the flavor by using a milder cheese, roasting the garlic, and reducing or increasing the spices and heat level.

Can I freeze almogrote?

I wouldn’t recommend freezing it as the texture will change once you thaw it.

How to eat almogrote?

It’s usually spread over bread or crackers. Serve it as an appetizer or as part of a tapas spread for a party or gathering.