When to Serve It

This is dessert all the way. Serve it after dinner with a glass of Port and you will think you are the luckiest person on the planet. And with only four ingredients, you will also be the most relaxed!

About the Cheese

What is Stilton?
Stilton - the "king" of English cheeses. Made for over 300 years in the same three counties in England, Stilton is one of the most remarkably pleasing blue cheeses around. It has a deep ivory color, dense, creamy texture and a well-balanced, mellow blue side. As if you need another positive attribute, it also melts beautifully, making it great for cooking. Aged for about 2-3 months, Stilton is made from pasteurized milk. It has a grayish-brown natural rind that protects the cheese during its ripening.

Not All Stiltons Are Created Equal
Stilton is only allowed to be made by six dairies - all of whom must strictly use the time-honored recipe. But still, not all Stiltons are alike. One producer, Colston Basset, is considered to be the preeminent Stilton maker. And of course, wouldn't you know it, that's the Stilton you will find at Cheesetique (sent directly to us from Neal's Yard Dairy in London). Believe it or not, there is actually and association, the SCMA (Stilton Cheesemakers' Association) whose sole purpose it is to oversee the quality and distribution of this remarkable cheese.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter
1/4 pound Stilton, sliced or crumbled
1 ripe pear, peeled, cored, and sliced thinly
4 slices walnut raisin bread

Directions

1. Divide ingredients in half and assemble two pear-and-Stilton sandwiches.

2. Melt butter in a saute pan over medium-low heat. Don't let it burn.

3. Place both sandwiches in a pan, cover, and cook for 2 minutes per side, or until browned like a typical grilled-cheese sandwich. Don't let it burn! Those raisins love to frizzle when unwatched.

4. Remove from the pan and slice each sandwich into finger-food portions. Serve immediately.

What the Heck is White Stilton?
White Stilton is simply the Stilton cheese base with no added blue mold. It's just the "cheesy" part. This dense, creamy cheese makes a great base for added flavors. For instance, make sure you check out our White Stilton with Mango and Ginger - light, sweet, and yummy.