Frederic Melton
Beer cheese is a smooth cheese dip or spread made by combining beer, cheese, and various spices and seasonings. It is typically served with crackers, pretzels, tortilla chips, or vegetables. The dip can be made in just 15 minutes and is a perfect appetizer or game-day snack. The beer used can be light or dark, which will change the flavor of the dip. The cheese is usually a blend of sharp Cheddar and Gruyère, although other cheeses can be used. The dip is made by creating a roux with melted butter and flour, then adding in beer and milk, followed by the grated cheese.
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Beer and cheese selection
The beer and cheese you choose will determine the flavour of your beer cheese, so it's important to select the right combination.
Beer
The beer is what gives the dip its name, so it's important to choose one that will complement the cheese and other ingredients. You can use any beer you like, but different beers will produce different flavours. For example, a dark beer like a stout or malt will give a deep, slightly bitter flavour, while a light beer like an ale, pilsner, or IPA will give a lighter flavour. If you're making the dip ahead of time, a non-alcoholic beer works well too.
Traditionally, beer cheese is made with German lager, but today it is often made with IPAs, stouts, and other craft brews. You can also use a lager-style beer or your favourite variety.
Cheese
A combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère is a popular choice for beer cheese, as both have good meltability and flavour. The sharp cheddar provides a bold, sharp flavour, while the Gruyère adds a nutty slightly sweet taste. It's important to use a block of cheese and grate it yourself, as pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent it from melting well and staying creamy.
In addition to cheddar and Gruyère, you can also use other cheeses such as Monterey Jack, cream cheese, or even a supermarket brand of cheddar.
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Creating a roux
The mixture will be foamy, and you should make sure there are no dry pockets of flour left. You can also add in seasonings at this point. Suggested seasonings include garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Once the roux is formed, slowly pour in the beer and milk while whisking constantly. The beer and milk can be added in a slow and steady stream, and you can whisk in the milk first, followed by the beer, or vice versa. The mixture will seem thick and pasty at first, but as you continue to stir, it will smooth out. Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat until it thickens. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
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Adding milk
The amount of milk added can vary depending on the desired consistency of the beer cheese. For a thicker dip, less milk can be used, while adding more milk will result in a thinner, smoother sauce. It is recommended to use whole milk or half-and-half for the best results.
After adding the milk, the mixture will need to be cooked over medium heat and whisked constantly. This process will take a few minutes, and you will know it is ready when it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. The heat can then be reduced, and the grated cheese can be slowly incorporated.
The milk plays a crucial role in the texture and consistency of the beer cheese. It adds creaminess and richness, balancing out the sharpness of the cheese and the bitterness of the beer. The milk also helps to round out the flavours and create a smooth, velvety dip that is perfect for pairing with soft pretzels, tortilla chips, or fresh vegetables.
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Seasoning
- Salt: Salt is used to enhance the flavours of the other ingredients and balance the sweetness of the cheese. It can be adjusted according to taste preferences.
- Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a hint of heat and spice to the beer cheese. It can be adjusted or omitted according to spice tolerance.
- Garlic: Garlic, in the form of fresh cloves, powder, or granulated garlic, adds a savoury punch to the dip.
- Mustard: Mustard, either in the form of dijon mustard or dry mustard powder, adds a tangy kick to the beer cheese. It is a key ingredient in many recipes.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce is a flavourful condiment that adds depth and savoury notes to the dip. It is often used in combination with other seasonings.
- Onion Powder: Onion powder contributes to the savoury flavour profile of beer cheese and can be used in conjunction with fresh or dried onions.
- Smoked Paprika: Adding smoked paprika will impart a smoky flavour and a hint of spice, enhancing the overall flavour of the dip.
- Hot Sauce: Hot sauce is used to add spice and a tangy kick to the beer cheese. It can be adjusted according to spice preference.
These seasonings can be added at different stages of the beer cheese-making process, typically during the cooking of the roux or after the cheese has been melted. It is important to taste and adjust the seasonings as you go to ensure the desired flavour profile is achieved.
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Serving suggestions
Beer cheese is a versatile dip that can be served in a variety of ways. It is traditionally served warm or hot with soft pretzels, tortilla chips, or crackers. For a healthier option, it can also be served with fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, broccoli florets, cauliflower, zucchini, bell peppers, or baby potatoes.
If you're looking for something heartier, beer cheese can be used as a topping for Irish nachos, made with potatoes and corned beef, or served as a fondue with bread cubes, soft breadsticks, or garlic crostini for dipping. You can even get creative and use beer cheese as a sauce for dishes like mac and cheese or chili.
For a more elegant presentation, beer cheese can be served as part of a charcuterie or snack board, paired with crackers, crostini, or pita chips, and garnished with chopped chives. It can also be served as a spread for sandwiches or wraps, adding a creamy and flavourful touch to your lunch.
When it comes to storing and reheating, beer cheese can be made ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days. It can be reheated on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, ensuring it doesn't overheat and become grainy.
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Frequently asked questions
Beer cheese is a smooth cheese dip or spread made by combining shredded or melted cheese with flattened beer along with various spices and seasonings.
To make beer cheese, you can combine sharp cheddar with processed cheese or other young, soft cheeses such as Monterey Jack or even cream cheese, then mix with flat beer and seasonings including salt, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, garlic, and mustard.
You can use any beer you like, but traditionally, German lagers are used. Today, it is common to use IPAs, stouts, and other craft brews. Light beers like ales, pilsners, and IPAs will give a lighter flavor, while dark beers like stouts or malt will produce a deeper, slightly bitter flavor.
Beer cheese is commonly served with pretzels, tortilla chips, crostini, bread, crackers, and fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and tortilla chips.
Beer cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
