The Perfect Cheeses To Pair With Corned Beef

Corned beef is a popular choice for sandwiches, especially around St. Patrick's Day. But what type of cheese goes well with corned beef? There are several options that pair nicely with corned beef, including Swiss cheese, provolone, havarti, and cheddar. Swiss cheese is a traditional choice for a classic Reuben sandwich, which typically includes Russian dressing, sauerkraut or coleslaw, and rye bread. Provolone is a mild complement to corned beef and goes well with mustard. Havarti offers a gentle tang and lots of creaminess, while cheddar, especially Irish cheddar, can add a nice flavour to the sandwich. Ultimately, the choice of cheese depends on personal preference, and experimenting with different cheeses can be a fun way to find your favourite combination.

Provolone, Swiss, or cheddar cheese

Provolone

Provolone is a mild and versatile cheese that pairs well with corned beef. Try making a corned beef melt sandwich with provolone, caramelized onions, grainy mustard, and rye bread. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough or white sandwich bread, to find your favourite combination.

Swiss

Swiss cheese is a popular choice for corned beef sandwiches, especially if you're making a Reuben. This classic combination often includes Russian dressing, sauerkraut, and rye bread. For a twist on the traditional Reuben, try using Jarlsberg or Fontina cheese. You can also add some crunch and texture with pickled cucumbers, coleslaw, or potato chips on the side.

Cheddar

If you're looking for an Irish twist, try using a nice Irish cheddar with your corned beef. This combination works well in a grilled cheese sandwich with caramelized onions and rye bread. For a heartier option, use sourdough bread. You can also experiment with different types of condiments, such as whole-grain mustard or Russian dressing.

Grilled cheese sandwiches

A grilled cheese sandwich is a great way to use up leftover corned beef. You can also use deli-sliced corned beef, which you can cut into strips.

Bread

You can use any bread you like for your grilled cheese sandwich, but a seeded rye bread is a popular choice. Sourdough or white sandwich bread also works well.

Cheese

Swiss cheese is a good choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, but you could also use provolone, havarti, Fontina, or even Irish cheddar.

Other ingredients

You'll also need butter, onions, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. If you want to add some crunch, you could put coleslaw or sauerkraut on your sandwich.

Method

Start by caramelising your onions. Add butter to a large skillet over medium-low heat. When melted, add thinly sliced onions and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a little sugar. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring regularly, until the onions are soft and golden brown.

Next, stir in the corned beef, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard.

Now it's time to assemble your sandwich. Top two slices of bread with cheese, then add the corned beef mixture and another slice of bread.

Finally, melt some butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your sandwiches. Cook until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted, then serve warm.

Tips

• Use a cast-iron skillet to make grilled cheese sandwiches as it holds heat evenly and well.
• Make sure you use enough butter to coat the entire bottom of the pan.
• This sandwich is best enjoyed shortly after it's been made. It doesn't store or reheat well and will become soggy.

Rye bread

A corned beef sandwich is a popular choice for St. Patrick's Day, and it seems that rye bread is the classic choice to accompany it.

When making a corned beef sandwich on rye bread, it is essential to choose a good-quality, hearty loaf from a bakery. This will ensure the bread has the right texture and flavour to complement the filling. Toasting the bread can also add a nice crispy texture and enhance the flavour.

Some people like to add extra ingredients to their corned beef sandwiches, such as cheese, mustard, pickles, or coleslaw. Swiss cheese is a popular choice, as it has a gentle tang and melts well. Other options include provolone, cheddar, or havarti. For a creamy texture and a tangy flavour, a spread of Russian dressing, or a mixture of Dijon mustard and mayonnaise, can be added.

Overall, rye bread is an excellent choice for a corned beef sandwich. Its unique flavour, texture, and ability to complement the corned beef make it a popular and delicious option.

Russian dressing

To make your own Russian dressing, simply whisk together the mayo, chilli garlic sauce, lemon juice, creamy horseradish, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, onion, paprika, salt and pepper until creamy. You can also add a little garlic powder to the buttered bread for an extra garlic kick.

Caramelised onions

The sandwich is then grilled, toasted, or broiled, and served warm.

Frequently asked questions