The Perfect Cheese Pairings For Mortadella

Mortadella is a type of Italian cured meat, similar to bologna, that is often served in sandwiches. It is usually served with cheese, and there are many types that are considered to pair well with mortadella. These include provolone, mozzarella, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Pecorino.

Provolone, Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino are Italian cheeses that complement mortadella

Mortadella is a luxurious Italian cold cut, often described as a high-quality version of bologna. It is one of the most ancient Italian cured meats, with its production being regulated since the 17th century.

When it comes to cheese pairings, Provolone is a popular choice for mortadella sandwiches. Anthony Bourdain's famous mortadella sandwich, inspired by his trip to Brazil, includes crispy fried mortadella, melted Provolone, mustard, and mayo on a toasted roll. However, some people prefer other cheeses like white American cheese or mozzarella, as Provolone can have a strong smokey flavour.

Parmigiano Reggiano, produced in the same region as mortadella, is another cheese that enhances mortadella. It is a popular choice for charcuterie boards, pairing well with the well-balanced flavour of mortadella.

Pecorino, a mild Italian cheese with many varieties, is also an excellent pairing for mortadella. Its milky fragrance complements the well-balanced flavour of mortadella. A suggested variety is Pecorino Toscano.

In addition to these Italian cheeses, other options include Port Salut, Munster, Stracciatella, Fontina Val d'Aosta, Monterey Jack, Havarti, Pepper Jack, Scamorza, and Taleggio.

White American cheese is a good substitute for provolone as it melts well

When making a mortadella sandwich, the cheese is often melted to achieve a gooey, indulgent texture. Provolone is a popular choice for this type of sandwich, but White American cheese is a good alternative. In fact, celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain recommends using American cheese in his mortadella sandwich recipe. In his cookbook, Bourdain mentions that processed cheese, such as American cheese, is superior on a toasted sandwich.

White American cheese has a creamy texture and mild flavour that pairs well with mortadella. It also melts easily, creating a gooey and indulgent texture that is desirable in a grilled cheese sandwich. The melting quality of White American cheese is especially important if you are making a panini or grilled mortadella sandwich, as the cheese will need to melt quickly without drying out the bread.

In addition to its melting capabilities, White American cheese is also a good substitute for provolone because of its mild flavour. Mortadella is a delicate Italian cold cut with a well-balanced flavour. A mild cheese like White American won't overwhelm the taste of the mortadella, allowing both ingredients to shine.

When substituting White American cheese for provolone in a mortadella sandwich, it is important to consider the amount used. White American cheese can be slightly stronger in flavour than provolone, so you may want to use a little less to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.

Overall, White American cheese is a good substitute for provolone in a mortadella sandwich due to its melting capabilities and mild flavour. It is a versatile cheese that can enhance the taste and texture of this classic sandwich.

Fresh mozzarella is a good option as its flavour does not overwhelm mortadella

Fresh mozzarella is a great option when making a mortadella sandwich, as its flavour does not overwhelm the mortadella. This is because mozzarella is a mild cheese with a fresh, milky flavour that melts beautifully. It is also a good choice because it is not too hard for melting and its stringiness works well in a sandwich.

Mozzarella is not the only cheese that can be paired with mortadella, however. Provolone is a popular choice, as seen in Anthony Bourdain's famous mortadella sandwich, inspired by his trip to Brazil. In his cookbook, *Appetites*, Bourdain uses provolone, sourdough bread, mayo, and mustard. However, some people prefer to use American cheese in their mortadella sandwiches because it melts so well.

Other cheeses that can be used in mortadella sandwiches include Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino, Port Salut, Munster, Stracciatella, Fontina Val d'Aosta, Monterey Jack, Havarti, Pepper Jack, Scamorza, and Taleggio.

Port Salut, Munster, and Scamorza are pungent cheeses that pair well with mortadella

Port Salut, a semi-soft pasteurised cow's milk cheese from Pays de la Loire, France, has a distinctive orange rind and a mild flavour. However, it can develop a strong smell as it matures, which does not affect its flavour. Its mild flavour and smooth texture make it a good match for mortadella, adding a subtle tang without overwhelming the palate.

Munster, a washed-rind cheese from the Vosges mountains in Alsace, is also a suitable pairing for mortadella. Its strong flavour and pungent aroma can stand up to the mortadella, creating a robust and savoury combination. Munster's smooth, soft texture, similar to Port Salut, also ensures a pleasant mouthfeel when paired with the meat.

Scamorza, an Italian cow's milk cheese, is another pungent variety that complements mortadella. It is a pasta filata ('stretched curd') cheese, where the fresh curd matures in its own whey, developing acidity. Scamorza has a unique pear-like shape and a white or smoked almond colour. Its strong, nutty flavour adds depth to mortadella sandwiches and can be substituted for mozzarella in most dishes.

For a non-dairy option, consider a grilled vegetable sandwich with mortadella

To start, choose your bread. A sandwich with mortadella often uses a roll, such as a Kaiser roll, sourdough, or Portuguese water roll. However, if you're making a panini, ciabatta rolls are an excellent choice as they crisp nicely without becoming too doughy. Toasting the bread beforehand will add a satisfying crunch to your sandwich.

Now, for the vegetables! Grilled or fried vegetables will add a delicious texture and flavour to your sandwich. You could try frying some artichoke hearts in olive oil or butter and layering them onto your sandwich. Another option is to add some roasted red peppers, banana pepper rings, or peperoncini for a spicy kick. If you're looking for something greener, try adding some lettuce, spinach, or arugula. Just be aware that these options may become wilted and soggy if heated, so they're best suited for an un-toasted sandwich.

Of course, the star of the show is the mortadella! This Italian cold cut is similar to bologna but of higher quality and with a better taste. Look for thinly sliced mortadella, as this will make your sandwich easier to assemble and eat. If you're feeling adventurous, seek out mortadella with pistachios or a spicy variety with Calabrian chilli peppers.

Finally, bring your sandwich together with some tasty spreads and condiments. Pesto is a great option, especially if you want to highlight the pistachio flavour of the mortadella. You can use traditional basil pesto or mix it up with spinach walnut or arugula pesto. Another spread to try is sun-dried tomato mayo, which adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess to your sandwich. Don't forget to add some mustard and mayonnaise to your bread for that extra kick of flavour!

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