SAINT-MARCELLIN CHEESE WITH BLACK OLIVES JAM
Follow me in my kitchen as I bring together the goodness of Saint-Marcellin and the sweet bliss of black olive jam…
The charms of Carennac : from inspiration to creation
In the heart of Carennac, just opposite the village church, a quaint shop caught my eye. Displayed like precious gems were various tapenades, Yet, one stood out : the black olive jam. The mere thought of it lingered in my mind, creating an intrigue that begged to be explored.
The spark of inspiration ignited when, surrounded by friends, I decided to translate my musings into reality. The idea of marrying the rich, earthy notes of Saint-Marcellin cheese with the intense sweetness of black olive jam proved irresistible.
Sharing the culinary triumph
The true joy of culinary experimentation lies in sharing the fruits of labour with loved ones. The moment of truth arrived as I presented the Saint-Marcellin with the black olive jam to my discerning friends. The collective expressions of surprise mirrored my own satisfaction!
Timeless Beauty
Located in the Lot department of south-western France, Carennac is a commune situated in the historical expanse of Quercy. This village has a rich history that stretches back to Neolithic times.
Carennac’s charm lies in its meticulously preserved medieval architecture. Notable landmarks include a 16th-century castle, a medieval priory boasting an 11th-century church and cloister, and a Romanesque church with a tympanum. Without omitting the 15th-century “mise au tombeau” in the cloister.
Carennac proudly wears the accolade of being one of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France”.
Wine pairing with Coteaux des Baronnies
For my recipe of Saint-Marcellin with black olive jam, I recommend a red Coteaux des Baronnies from the Rhone valley.
Coteaux des Baronnies is a wine region situated between the Drôme Provençale and the Rhône Valley, known for producing red wines made from varieties such as Shiraz/Syrah and Grenache.
The wine is described as having a variety of tasting notes, including light, bold, smooth, tannic, dry, sweet, and soft . The colour of the wine is garnet red with purplish reflections, and it is known for being an “out of the way country wine” with underestimated quality.
An Invitation to Carennac
As I recount this culinary escapade, I extend an invitation for you to explore the enchanting village of Carennac. Let its cobblestone streets guide you to hidden culinary gems, and perhaps you too will be inspired to create your own easy-peasy dish!

SAINT-MARCELLIN CHEESE WITH BLACK OLIVES JAM
Ingredients
- 250 g black olives pitted
- 80 g brown caster sugar
- 1 little lime juice
- the seeds from 1 little vanilla pod
- Saint-Marcellin cheese or any goat cheese
Instructions
- Blanch the olives in boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Drain and repeat the operation a second time.
- Place them in a saucepan with the lime, vanilla and sugar.
- Gently simmer for 10 minutes.
- Reduce the olives with a hand blender. Set aside to cool down.
- Pour the preparation in a little jar.
- Serve with the Saint-Marcellin or any goat cheese.