Mock Boursin
A creamy, flavorful herb cheese spread with garlic, dill, basil, and caraway, perfect for snacking with crackers and ideal for entertaining or a savory appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Unwrap the cream cheese and place it in a glass mixing bowl.
- Microwave uncovered for about 1 1/2 minutes on 50% power until softened but not melted.
- Blend in the crushed garlic, caraway seed, basil, dill weed, and chopped dehydrated chives.
- Pat the mixture into a round cake about 1 1/2 inches high.
- Roll generously on all sides in lemon pepper.
- Refrigerate. Best made a few days ahead so that flavors blend.
- Serve with assorted crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes instead of microwaving. You can substitute fresh herbs if you have them on hand, but remember that dried herbs are more concentrated. If you prefer a different flavor profile, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
This Mock Boursin pairs beautifully with assorted crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or sliced baguette. Consider serving it alongside a selection of cheeses for a diverse cheese board. For a complete experience, include a fruit preserve or honey to complement the cheese's flavors and browse more vegetarian recipes to create a delightful appetizer spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Mock Boursin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To maintain its flavor and texture, avoid leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods. If you want to serve it warm, let it sit out for about 15 minutes before serving; this will soften it slightly without losing its structure.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mock Boursin contains roughly 100 calories, with 6g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value) and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by using a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Just ensure that the other ingredients, such as the herbs and spices, are also plant-based. The flavors will still shine through and create a delicious spread.
How long does the flavor improve after making it?
The flavors of the Mock Boursin will deepen and improve after a day in the refrigerator. For the best taste, prepare it at least 24 hours in advance. This allows the herbs and spices to infuse into the cream cheese, enhancing the overall flavor.
Can I freeze Mock Boursin?
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe as it may alter the texture of the cream cheese. If you have leftovers, it's best to store them in the refrigerator and consume them within a week for optimal taste and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).