It was the usual day-to-day type of shopping list, lard,cooking oil, strong white bread flour, yeast and the like.
But I then saw something that I decided to add to our shopping basket. A block of Smug dairy and oat milk blended cheese. It tastes absolutely delicious (as it happens, on a cheese sandwich made with the strong white bread flour we bought!) so I decided to write this blogpost about Smug.
In a world where dietary choices are becoming more varied and inclusive, innovation in the food industry continues to surprise and delight us.
One of the most exciting recent developments in the dairy world is the rise of blended cheeses, combining the creamy richness of traditional dairy with plant-based alternatives.
Smug Dairy and Oat Milk Cheese Blend is a prime example of this delicious evolution, offering something fresh and unique for cheese lovers who want the best of both worlds.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Smug’s dairy and oat milk cheese blend and why it’s making waves among those seeking a balance between indulgence and conscious eating.
1. What Is Smug Dairy and Oat Milk Cheese Blend?
Smug has developed a cheese that blends traditional dairy with oat milk, creating a product that delivers the creamy texture and richness associated with classic cheeses, but with a twist. By incorporating oat milk, Smug’s cheese blend provides a lighter, plant-forward alternative without compromising on the indulgence of dairy. This fusion of dairy and oats offers a modern, versatile option that caters to a wide range of dietary preferences.
2. Why Oat Milk?
Oat milk has been taking the food world by storm, largely due to its environmental benefits and creamy consistency. Compared to other plant-based milks like almond or soya, oat milk is more sustainable, requiring less water to produce and typically creating less strain on the environment. Oat milk is also naturally free of common allergens, such as nuts and soy, making it a more inclusive choice for those with dietary restrictions. It also tastes pretty good, too!
When incorporated into a cheese blend, oat milk brings a subtle sweetness and light texture, complementing the creaminess of dairy while also softening its richness. The result is a cheese that is easier on the stomach for those who may have minor lactose sensitivities but still want to enjoy the pleasures of cheese.
3. The Flavour Profile
One of the standout features of Smug’s dairy and oat milk blend is its sophisticated flavour profile. The cheese maintains the familiar tang of traditional dairy, but with a mellow finish thanks to the oat milk.
It’s smooth, slightly nutty, and has a delicate sweetness that makes it highly versatile for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re adding it to a sandwich, melting it over pasta, or simply enjoying it on a cracker, the cheese delivers a satisfying and well-rounded flavour.
For those who enjoy a more refined cheeseboard, Smug’s blend pairs beautifully with both savoury and sweet accompaniments, such as caramelised onions, figs, or even a drizzle of honey.
4. Health Benefits
Beyond the delicious taste, Smug’s dairy and oat milk blend offers some health advantages. Oat milk is high in fibre, particularly beta-glucan, which has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, by incorporating oat milk, the cheese blend is slightly lower in fat and calories than traditional cheeses, making it a lighter option for those looking to indulge more mindfully.
For individuals who are not fully lactose intolerant but experience discomfort with high-lactose products, the combination of dairy and oat milk can offer a more digestible option, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of dairy without as much heaviness.
5. A More Sustainable Choice
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor for consumers, and Smug’s oat milk and dairy cheese blend is a step in the right direction. By blending dairy with a plant-based alternative, Smug helps reduce the environmental impact typically associated with cheese production, particularly in terms of water use and greenhouse gas emissions.
While fully plant-based cheeses are undoubtedly a great choice for those seeking to minimise their environmental footprint, Smug’s cheese blend offers a thoughtful middle ground for people who still enjoy dairy but are looking to make more sustainable choices in their diet.
6. How to Enjoy Smug’s Dairy and Oat Milk Cheese Blend
Smug’s innovative cheese blend is incredibly versatile, making it a great addition to any kitchen. Here are a few ideas for how to use it:
Melt it: This cheese blend melts beautifully, making it a great option for pizza, grilled sandwiches, or over pasta dishes like mac and cheese.
Cheeseboards: Add Smug’s cheese to your next cheeseboard for a modern twist. Pair it with nuts, fruits, and oat biscuits for a delicious mix of textures and flavours.
Salads: Crumble it over a fresh salad for a light, creamy addition that won’t overpower your greens.
Baking: Use it in savoury tarts, quiches, or pies to add richness without the heaviness of a full dairy filling.
7. Where to Find It
Smug Dairy and Oat Milk Cheese Blend is available in select supermarkets and speciality food stores. As the demand for innovative cheese alternatives grows, we’re likely to see more variations of this product become widely available.
A New Age for Cheese Lovers
Smug’s dairy and oat milk cheese blend represents a new era for cheese lovers who are seeking both indulgence and mindfulness in their eating habits. Whether you’re looking to reduce your dairy intake, experiment with plant-based products, or simply try something new, this blend is a delicious way to explore a more balanced approach to cheese. It’s not just a product for vegans or lactose-intolerant individuals; it’s for anyone who enjoys the art of cheese and appreciates thoughtful, sustainable innovation.
This Christmas, why not give your cheeseboard a modern twist with Smug Dairy and Oat Milk Cheese Blend? Your guests will want to know where you got it!
Smug also make Salted Blended oat & Dairy butter and a Spreadable Blended oat & Dairy butter version, too.
It's available in Morrisons, Tescos and other stores.