Obatzda (Bavarian Cheese Spread)

Ingredients

• 250g ripe camembert, rind removed, at room temperature
• 60g unsalted butter, softened
• 100g cream cheese, full-fat
• 2 tablespoons wheat beer, plus extra to drizzle
• 1 small yellow onion, very finely minced
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, plus extra to garnish
• 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds, lightly crushed
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
• 4 radishes, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped

Steps

1. 1

   1. Let the camembert and butter sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes so they mash smoothly.

2. 2

   2. In a bowl, combine the camembert, butter, and cream cheese, then mash vigorously with a fork until the mixture is mostly smooth with a little texture remaining.

3. 3

   3. Stir in the minced onion, paprika, caraway seeds, pepper, and salt, mixing until evenly incorporated.

4. 4

   4. Add the wheat beer one tablespoon at a time, stirring after each addition until the spread reaches a creamy, spreadable consistency.

5. 5

   5. Transfer to a crock or shallow bowl, smooth the top lightly, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.

6. 6

   6. Before serving, drizzle a small pour of cold wheat beer over the top, garnish with sliced radishes, chives, and a dusting of paprika, and serve with pretzels or dark rye bread.