Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsUnion 50Humboldt Fog Recipe

Humboldt Fog Recipe

Inspired by Union 50
Time3h
Serves10

Experience the exquisite taste of Humboldt Fog, a luxurious goat cheese renowned for its velvety texture and distinctive layers. Crafted in California’s lush pastures, this artisanal delight boasts a signature gray-blue rind and a creamy interior that melts in your mouth. Its mild, tangy flavors are balanced with earthy undertones, making it the perfect companion for crusty bread, fresh fruits, or a drizzle of honey. Elevate your palate with this gourmet cheese that embodies the essence of the West Coast.

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Ingredients

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Cheese Ingredients

Method

Cheese Making Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat the Milk

    In a large pot, gently heat the goat's milk to 85°F (29°C) over low heat.

  2. 2

    Add Buttermilk

    Once the milk has reached the desired temperature, stir in the cultured buttermilk and let it sit for 30 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add Rennet

    Dissolve the rennet in a small amount of cool, chlorine-free water and stir it into the milk mixture. Let it sit undisturbed for about 1 hour until it sets.

  4. 4

    Cut the Curd

    Once the curd has set, cut it into small cubes (about 1 inch) and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.

  5. 5

    Cook the Curd

    Slowly heat the curds to 100°F (38°C) while gently stirring. Hold this temperature for about 30 minutes.

  6. 6

    Drain the Curd

    Pour the curds into a cheesecloth-lined colander to drain the whey, and then sprinkle sea salt over the curds. Mix gently.

  7. 7

    Shape the Cheese

    Transfer the curds into a cheese mold, pressing down firmly to shape it into a round form. Cover and let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours.

  8. 8

    Apply Activated Charcoal

    After 24 hours, remove the cheese from the mold and rub the exterior with activated charcoal powder, creating the characteristic ash layer.

  9. 9

    Aging

    Wrap the cheese in cheese paper and age it in a cool, humid environment for 2-3 weeks, flipping it every few days.

  10. 10

    Serve

    Once aged, slice and serve the Humboldt Fog cheese with fresh herbs as a garnish if desired.

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