American Cheese: Restaurant Favorite

American cheese is a processed cheese product with a unique place in American cuisine. It is often found in households and restaurants across the United States and is known for its mild, creamy taste and smooth, uniform texture. With its low melting point, it is a popular choice for cheeseburgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, and macaroni and cheese. While some people may turn up their noses at American cheese, it has its own special place in the food-loving community. In this paragraph, we will explore the different types of American cheese used in restaurants and how they enhance various dishes.

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Processed cheese product

The term "American cheese" is used to refer to the processed variety, which was first introduced in the 1910s by James L. Kraft, the founder of Kraft Foods Inc. He obtained a patent for his manufacturing process in 1916 and began marketing it in the late 1910s. The term "American cheese" quickly replaced the traditional but more expensive cheddars also made and sold in the US.

According to US regulations, to be labelled "American cheese", a processed cheese must be made from cheddar cheese, Colby cheese, washed curd cheese, or granular cheese, or any combination of these. Federal laws mandate that if the cheese is made from more than one type of cheese, it must be labelled as "pasteurized process American cheese". This type of cheese must be entirely cheese, except for small amounts of additives such as emulsifying agents, salt, colouring, acidifying agents, and optional dairy fat sources (up to 5% of the total weight).

If the product contains at least 51% cheese but also includes other dairy ingredients such as cream, milk, skim milk, buttermilk, cheese whey, or albumin from cheese whey, it is labelled as "pasteurized process American cheese food". Products that do not include the term "cheese" in their description, such as Kraft Singles, are considered "cheese food" and contain less than 51% cheese. These products are not considered cheese by American regulatory definitions.

Processed American cheese is available in various forms, including individually wrapped slices, unwrapped slices sold in stacks, or unsliced blocks. It is commonly used in sandwiches, grilled cheese, macaroni and cheese, and breakfast meals due to its neutral flavour, soft texture, and meltability.

Melting properties

American cheese is a processed cheese product with a unique place in American cuisine. It is made from a blend of milk, milk fats, whey protein concentrate, milk protein concentrate, preservatives, and emulsifying agents. This blend gives American cheese its characteristic melting properties.

American cheese has a low melting point, making it a popular choice for various dishes. The emulsifying agents in American cheese allow it to melt smoothly without splitting into a greasy, clumpy mess, as traditional cheeses like cheddar tend to do when melted. This property of American cheese is due to its manufacturing process, which involves melting the cheese with additional whey, milk proteins, and emulsifying salts to create a homogeneous plastic mass.

The ability of American cheese to melt smoothly without separating makes it ideal for use in grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and cheeseburgers. It is often used in fast food and is commonly found in households and restaurants across the United States.

While some people may have a distaste for American cheese, referring to it as "fake cheese," it is important to note that it is considered real cheese by regulatory definitions as long as it contains more than 51% cheese. The term "American cheese" specifically refers to this processed variety, which was patented by the founder of Kraft in 1916, rather than the traditional but more expensive cheddars also made and sold in the US.

Kraft Singles

It is important to note that Kraft Singles are considered a "cheese food" rather than cheese by American regulatory definitions because they contain less than 51% cheese in their ingredients. However, they are still a popular choice for consumers and are widely used in restaurants and at home.

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Deli cheese

American cheese is known for its salty smoothness and excellent melting capabilities, making it a favourite for grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, and other deli offerings. It has a distinct orange colour and a waxy texture when purchased in individual slices. However, the quality and taste of American cheese can vary significantly depending on the brand and whether it is purchased pre-sliced or freshly sliced from a block at the deli counter.

Some popular brands of American cheese include Kraft, Trader Joe's, and Applegate Organics. Kraft offers a range of options, from the classic Kraft Singles to the Deli Deluxe line, which includes the White American Cheese Slices and Individually Wrapped Slices. Trader Joe's Organic American Singles are another affordable option that stays fresh longer due to their individual packaging. For those seeking a more natural option, Applegate Organics American Cheese offers a quicker melting time and a lumpy, uneven texture, although it is more expensive and has a shorter shelf life.

When purchasing American cheese, it is important to note that freshly sliced deli cheese should be consumed within 5-7 days of purchase for the best quality. Pre-sliced cheeses should be used within the same timeframe once the package is opened. To maintain freshness, cheese should be securely wrapped in airtight plastic wrap, aluminium foil, or stored in a resealable plastic bag. Freezing cheese is not recommended as it alters the texture, but if frozen, it should be thawed in the refrigerator and used in cooked dishes.

Cheese sauces

American cheese sauce is a popular choice and can be made with just two ingredients: American cheese slices and milk. This sauce is easy to make and can be customised with spices and other ingredients. It is perfect for those who want a quick, inexpensive, and delicious cheese sauce.

For those who prefer a sharper flavour, a cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar can be a great option. This type of sauce typically includes additional ingredients such as butter, flour, and milk, and can be served with dishes like macaroni and cheese or used as a dip for vegetables and fries.

Some cheese sauces may also include a combination of cheeses, such as American and cheddar, to achieve the desired flavour and texture. To spice up a basic cheese sauce, ingredients such as hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic, onions, or crumbled bacon can be added.

Additionally, the type of milk used in cheese sauces can vary depending on the desired consistency and flavour. Whole milk or heavy cream is recommended for a creamier sauce, while lower-fat milk options such as 2% milk can also be used.

Frequently asked questions