Frederic Melton
Cheddar and American cheese are two very different types of cheese with distinct characteristics. Cheddar is a traditional English cheese with a strong flavour and a unique texture, while American cheese is a processed cheese product that was invented in the 1910s and is known for its mild flavour, creamy texture, and meltability. While both cheeses have their own unique qualities, they are often used interchangeably in recipes, and some people may prefer the taste of one over the other. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two cheeses and discuss whether they can be successfully paired together in dishes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| American cheese | Processed cheese made from cheddar, Colby, or similar cheeses |
| Cheddar cheese | Traditional cheese |
| Taste | American cheese is mild with a salty flavor; Cheddar cheese has a stronger flavor |
| Texture | American cheese is creamy and smooth; Cheddar cheese has a unique texture |
| Melting point | American cheese has a low melting point; Cheddar cheese is harder to melt |
| Color | American cheese is yellow or white; Cheddar cheese is naturally white but can be colored yellow |
| Packaging | American cheese is packaged in slices or blocks; Cheddar cheese is typically sold in blocks or shredded |
| Use cases | American cheese is commonly used in sandwiches, cheeseburgers, and Philly cheesesteaks; Cheddar cheese is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes |
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What You'll Learn
American cheese is made from cheddar, Colby, or similar cheeses
American cheese is a type of processed cheese. It is typically made from a mixture of mild cheddar and Colby, or similar cheeses, along with other ingredients. These ingredients include emulsifying agents, sodium citrate, salt, colouring, and acidifying agents. The use of sodium citrate is important as it prevents the cheese fats from separating during the pasteurisation process.
The term "American cheese" refers to the processed variety, which differs from traditional cheddar also made and sold in the US. Traditional cheddar is made using a "cheddaring" process, where ageing and the use of a buttermilk culture give the cheese its distinctive flavour and texture. In contrast, American cheese is made by grinding traditional cheese, mixing it with other ingredients, and heating it until it forms a homogeneous mixture. This process results in a cheese with a milder flavour, creamy texture, and salty taste. It also has a medium-firm consistency and a low melting point, making it a popular choice for sandwiches, cheeseburgers, and as an ingredient in dishes like the Philly cheesesteak.
American cheese, as a processed cheese, has been criticised as being "full of chemicals" and "not real cheese". However, it is important to note that all cheese is processed to some degree. The processing of American cheese allows for control over the final product's composition, including the percentage of milk fat, moisture, salt, and pH value. This level of control in the manufacturing process is what sets it apart from traditional cheeses like cheddar.
While American cheese may not have the same complex flavour as a sharp cheddar, it has its own unique characteristics. Its mild flavour, meltability, and goo factor make it a versatile and popular choice, especially for dishes where the flavour of the cheese is not meant to overpower other ingredients, such as a classic American cheeseburger.
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Cheddar and American cheese have different textures
Cheddar and American cheese are two very distinct types of cheese, with different textures, flavours, and production processes. Cheddar is a traditional, complex cheese with a unique texture achieved through the "cheddaring" process, which involves aging the cheese and using a buttermilk culture. On the other hand, American cheese is a processed cheese, often made from a combination of cheeses, including cheddar, Colby, or similar varieties.
The key difference in texture between the two cheeses lies in their production methods. Cheddar undergoes a specific cheddaring process, which gives it a firm and slightly crumbly texture. This process involves stacking and turning the curds, which removes excess moisture and develops a unique flavour and texture. The longer the cheddaring process, the firmer the texture of the final cheese.
American cheese, on the other hand, is known for its smooth and creamy texture. This is achieved through a different manufacturing process that involves grinding the cheese, adding emulsifying agents, and heating it to form a homogeneous mixture. The heating process, along with the addition of emulsifiers, gives American cheese its characteristic meltability and creamy mouthfeel.
The texture of American cheese is often described as gooey or gooey, especially when melted. This makes it a popular choice for sandwiches, cheeseburgers, and as a topping for dishes like grilled cheese or Philly cheesesteak. Its smooth texture and mild flavour make it a versatile ingredient that pairs well with a variety of meats and other ingredients.
In contrast, cheddar has a firmer texture that can range from slightly crumbly to smooth, depending on its age. Mature cheddars tend to have a more pronounced flavour and a firmer, more crystalline texture. The texture of cheddar makes it a good choice for adding flavour and body to dishes without becoming overly gooey or melting completely.
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American cheese is a common choice for sandwiches
American cheese is often sold in individually wrapped slices, unwrapped slices in stacks, or unsliced blocks. The blocks of American cheese, available at deli counters, are more similar to traditional cheese. However, the individually wrapped slices, known as "singles", are typically the least like traditional cheese.
American cheese is a type of processed cheese, which means that it has undergone a specific manufacturing process that differs from that of traditional cheeses. This process involves grinding traditional cheese, combining it with emulsifying agents and other ingredients, and heating it until it forms a melted homogeneous mixture. Sodium citrate is added to prevent the cheese fats from separating during pasteurization.
Despite its name, American cheese is not considered a "real cheese" by some due to its processed nature and the fact that it often contains less than 51% cheese. It is typically made from a mixture of mild cheddar and Colby cheeses, but some producers use fresh cheese curds or other dairy ingredients to cut costs.
While American cheese is a popular choice for sandwiches, there are also other cheese options that can be used, such as sharp cheddar, Comté, or Roquefort. These cheeses can add a stronger flavour to sandwiches or burgers. Ultimately, the choice of cheese depends on personal preference and the desired flavour and texture of the final dish.
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Cheddar is a good base flavour for sandwiches
Cheddar is a natural choice for sandwiches because of its distinct flavour and texture. It is an aged cheese with a high acidity level and a unique texture achieved through the "cheddaring" process. This process of ageing gives cheddar a stronger flavour than some other cheeses, such as American cheese, which is often made with younger cheddar and has a milder taste.
In addition to its flavour, cheddar is also a good base for sandwiches due to its meltability. While American cheese is known for its smooth and melty texture, cheddar can also be melted and used as a base layer in a sandwich. This makes it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sandwich combinations.
When creating a sandwich with cheddar, it is important to consider the other ingredients and how they will complement the cheese. For example, mozzarella is a good melting cheese that can be used as a foundation, while parmesan adds saltiness and stretchiness to the sandwich. By understanding the flavours and textures of different cheeses, you can create a well-balanced and tasty sandwich.
In conclusion, cheddar is a good base flavour for sandwiches due to its distinct flavour, meltability, and versatility. Its strong flavour can stand up to other ingredients, and its melting properties make it a useful binder for holding sandwiches together. Whether used alone or in combination with other cheeses, cheddar is a classic choice for sandwich-makers everywhere.
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American cheese is not considered real cheese
While American cheese is made from real cheese, it is blended with other ingredients to alter its texture and flavour. This has led to some people arguing that it is not "real cheese".
The term "American cheese" refers to processed cheese made from cheddar, Colby, or similar cheeses, in conjunction with sodium citrate, which allows the cheese to be pasteurized without its components separating. It is mild, with a creamy texture, a salty flavour, a medium-firm consistency, and a low melting point. It is typically yellow or white in colour.
Some people argue that American cheese is not real cheese because it contains additives and is highly processed. The Standards of Identity for Dairy Products, part of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), defines "American cheese" as a processed cheese that must be manufactured from cheddar cheese, Colby cheese, washed curd cheese, or granular cheese, or any mixture of these. The CFR also regulates the manufacturing of processed American cheese.
The debate over whether American cheese is considered real cheese or not is a matter of perspective and personal preference. Some people may argue that any cheese that is highly processed or contains additives is not real cheese, while others may argue that as long as it contains cheese, it can be considered real cheese.
Additionally, the quality of American cheese can vary significantly, with some brands being considered "fake crappy" while others are considered "real" and of higher quality. The term "American cheese" can also be confusing, as it does not refer to all cheeses produced in America, but specifically to the processed variety. This has led to some misconceptions about American cheese and its place in the culinary world.
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Frequently asked questions
American cheese is a type of processed cheese made from cheddar, Colby, or similar cheeses, in conjunction with sodium citrate, which permits the cheese to be pasteurized without its components separating. It is mild with a creamy texture and salty flavour, and a medium-firm consistency.
Cheddar cheese is a traditional cheese with a unique texture and flavour that is achieved through the "cheddaring" process. It is aged and made using a buttermilk culture.
Yes, you can use American and cheddar cheese together. In fact, American cheese is often made with cheddar, so the two will likely pair well.
Meltier cheeses like mozzarella and provolone are great bases for sauces and dishes like grilled cheese sandwiches or quesadillas. You can also pair American and cheddar with other cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, and even blue cheese or feta for a salty or nutty flavour.
