Cheese And Bbq Pulled Pork: The Perfect Pairing

BBQ pulled pork is a classic dish that can be taken to the next level with the addition of cheese. While it may not be the first thing you think of, cheese is a great way to add flavour, texture, and protein to your pulled pork sandwich. The key to achieving the perfect balance of flavours is choosing the right type of cheese. For example, if your pulled pork is sweet, you might opt for a more savoury cheese. You'll also want to consider the meltability and appearance of the cheese.

Sharp cheddar cheese

When it comes to BBQ pulled pork, sharp cheddar cheese is a classic and mouthwatering choice. The rich, tangy flavour of sharp cheddar beautifully complements the smoky, savoury notes of the pulled pork. But it's not just about taste; sharp cheddar's firm texture holds up well when melted, making it ideal for grilled cheese sandwiches or any dish where you want that cheesy goodness to blend seamlessly with the pork.

• Flavour: Sharp cheddar has a bold, tangy flavour that enhances the smoky, savoury taste of BBQ pulled pork without being overwhelmed by it. It's a match made in culinary heaven!
• Texture: Sharp cheddar has a firmer texture compared to milder cheddars, which means it holds up well when melted. This makes it perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches, where you want the cheese to blend seamlessly with the pork without becoming greasy or stringy.
• Visual Appeal: Cheddar's golden brown colour adds to the visual appeal of your dish. Whether it's melted on top of a pile of pulled pork or oozing out of a sandwich, sharp cheddar always looks appetising.
• Melting Ability: Cheddar is known for its excellent melting properties. When stirred into warm pulled pork, it melts beautifully, creating an irresistibly creamy and indulgent texture.

Creative Ways to Use Sharp Cheddar with BBQ Pulled Pork

Now that we've established why sharp cheddar is a superb choice, let's explore some delicious ways to incorporate it into your BBQ pulled pork creations:

• Cheesy BBQ Pulled Pork: The classic way to enjoy sharp cheddar with BBQ pulled pork is to simply stir it into your pulled pork. Start with a basic pulled pork recipe, shred the pork, add your favourite barbecue sauce, and then mix in a generous amount of shredded sharp cheddar while it's still warm. The cheese will melt into the pork, creating an unbelievably tasty and addictive dish.
• Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For an indulgent sandwich experience, combine BBQ pulled pork with melted sharp cheddar cheese between slices of brioche bread. Don't forget to toast the sandwich until it's golden brown and the cheese is bubbly!
• Loaded Fries: Top a pile of crispy fries with BBQ pulled pork and shredded sharp cheddar. Pop it under the grill to melt the cheese, and you've got yourself a decadent and comforting dish.
• Tacos and Taco Salad: Use sharp cheddar to add a tangy twist to your pulled pork tacos or taco salad. The cheese's flavour and texture will take your Mexican-inspired creations to the next level.
• Baked Potatoes: Stuff baked potatoes with BBQ pulled pork and sharp cheddar for a hearty and satisfying meal. The warm potato will help melt the cheese, creating a creamy and indulgent texture.

Taking It Up a Notch

While sharp cheddar is already a flavour powerhouse, there are a few simple ways to enhance its impact even further:

• Toppings: Sliced apples or pears, caramelised onions, or a tangy barbecue sauce can all complement the sharp cheddar and take your dish to the next level.
• Different Types of Cheddar: Experiment with different varieties of cheddar, such as smoked or aged cheddar, to add extra depth and complexity to your dish.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, try using Pepper Jack cheese, which has a similar melting profile to sharp cheddar but with a spicy kick from jalapeño peppers.

With its bold flavour, perfect melting abilities, and versatile applications, sharp cheddar cheese is the ideal choice to elevate your BBQ pulled pork creations. Whether you're making sandwiches, tacos, or simply enjoying a bowl of pulled pork, sharp cheddar will always hit the spot!

Monterey Jack cheese

When choosing a cheese for your pulled pork, you want something that will complement the flavour of the meat without overpowering it. Monterey Jack is a good choice because of its mild flavour and smooth meltability. It will add a subtle cheese flavour to your pulled pork without being overwhelming.

You can also experiment with different types of Monterey Jack, such as Pepper Jack, which adds a spicy kick to your pulled pork. Or, if you're looking for something with a little more tang, try Colby Jack, which has a subtle flavour and a creamy texture.

When preparing a pulled pork sandwich, it's important to consider the amount of cheese you use. You don't want to overstuff your sandwich, as it will be difficult to flip and the ingredients may fall out. It's best to keep the sandwich relatively thin, so the cheese melts evenly and the sandwich stays intact.

So, if you're looking for a cheese to pair with your BBQ pulled pork, Monterey Jack is an excellent choice. Its mild flavour, smooth melt, and creamy texture will enhance your dish without overpowering the flavour of the meat.

Mozzarella

When making a BBQ pulled pork sandwich with mozzarella, you can either use fresh mozzarella cheese cut into slices or shredded mozzarella cheese. Layer the cheese with the pulled pork, barbecue sauce, and other toppings of your choice, such as sliced pickles, red onions, or lettuce.

Provolone

For a simple, classic pulled pork grilled cheese sandwich, try layering slices of provolone with BBQ pulled pork, onion straws, and sliced American cheese on gently sweet brioche bread. Spread the outside of the bread with mayonnaise before toasting the sandwich in a skillet over medium-low heat.

For a sweeter option, try Hawaiian pulled pork sliders. Layer shredded pork, crushed pineapple, and provolone on Hawaiian rolls, then bake in the oven.

Swiss cheese

When choosing the right cheese for your pulled pork, it is important to consider flavour, texture, and appearance. Swiss cheese has a nutty flavour and a creamy texture, making it a great choice for grilled cheese sandwiches and other dishes that call for melted cheese. It also has a golden brown colour, which can add visual appeal to your dish.

When using Swiss cheese on a pulled pork sandwich, it is best to slice it thinly and melt it over the meat. This will allow the cheese to blend with the pork and create a harmonious flavour combination.

If you are looking for a cheese to add to your BBQ pulled pork, Swiss cheese is an excellent option. Its mild flavour, creamy texture, and golden brown colour make it a versatile and appealing choice that will enhance the taste and appearance of your dish.

Frequently asked questions