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. 

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. 

We 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!

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 red wine such as a Rioja. We’ve got plenty of information on cheese and food pairing in our types of Spanish cheese article. 

When making almogrote, it’s best to serve it alongside some other tapas dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Papas Arrugadas with mojo verde and a spicy mojo picón: Another popular tapas recipe from the Canary Islands.
• Sizzling Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al ajillo): You’ll find this classic tapas dish served all over Spain. 
• 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!

Nutrition Facts