Southwest Ingredients: Perfect Cheese Pairings For A Kick

Southwest cuisine is known for its bold, spicy flavours and is heavily influenced by Mexican cuisine. A variety of cheeses complement the flavours of the Southwest, including American, Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, and Pepper Jack. A popular choice is a grilled cheese sandwich, which combines creamy avocado, a homemade Southwest sauce, peppers, and bacon with a melting cheese such as gouda, gruyere, or havarti. The region's dairy producers are known for their high-quality milk, which is used to create premium cheeses and whey protein powders for customers worldwide.

Southwest grilled cheese sandwich

Ingredients:

• 1 slice cooked bacon
• 2 slices bread (Jalapeño cheese bread or other artisan bread)
• 2 Tablespoons Mayonnaise
• 2 slices of cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, Gouda, Gruyere, or Havarti)
• 1 slice of tomato
• Lettuce
• Avocado
• Peppers
• Homemade Southwestern Salsa Sauce (salsa, mayonnaise, and adobo)

Method:

First, cook the bacon to your desired doneness and set it aside. Next, make the salsa sauce by whisking together the salsa, mayonnaise, and adobo. Set this aside. Mash the avocado and set it aside. Heat a panini grill, sandwich maker, or skillet to medium-high heat. Butter one side of each slice of bread and flip the bread over. Spread both slices with the salsa sauce, then spread the avocado over one slice of bread. Lay the tomato slice and lettuce over the avocado. Put the top slice of bread over the lettuce. Grill the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3 minutes on each side.

Tips:

For a crispier sandwich, use fresh, soft bread and fresh, softened butter or mayonnaise. Indulge in high-quality cheese and use slices rather than grated cheese for even melting. For a mess-free option, use a sandwich or grill press.

Serving Suggestions:

The Southwest Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a flavorful and hearty meal that can be enjoyed on its own or with sides like chips, potato salad, or classic tomato soup. It can also be paired with a variety of soups, salads, or cold pasta salads for a filling lunch or quick dinner.

Southwest cheese and whey manufacturing

Southwest Cheese Company LLC is a world-class leader in the cheese and whey manufacturing industry. The company operates a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Clovis, New Mexico, which opened in 2005 and has since expanded twice, most recently in 2010. The facility is widely considered to be the largest cheese production plant in North America, with nearly 300 employees and an annual production capacity of over 588 million pounds of premium block cheese and 36.8 million pounds of whey protein powders.

Southwest Cheese sources its milk from Dairy Farmers of America, a cooperative of over 13,000 family farmers across the country, and Select Milk Producers, Inc. The company processes over 5.1 billion pounds of milk annually to create its range of cheeses, including American, Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, and Pepper Jack varieties.

In addition to cheese production, Southwest Cheese also manufactures whey protein products. Whey is a byproduct of the cheese-making process, and Southwest Cheese further processes this whey to create highly-purified whey protein powders. These powders are sought-after ingredients for nutritional foods and beverages due to their high protein content.

The company's manufacturing facility in Clovis, New Mexico, is strategically located in one of the highest-quality dairy-producing regions in the United States. This location ensures a consistent and abundant supply of fresh milk for cheese and whey production. The facility itself is equipped with advanced technology and machinery specifically designed for cheese and whey production, including vats, towers, and coolers for cheese curing and storage.

Southwest Cheese's commitment to quality and innovation in cheese and whey manufacturing has solidified its position as a global leader in the industry. The company's products are used by top food processing companies worldwide, contributing to its success and reputation.

Southwest seasoning mix

A southwest seasoning mix is a great way to add a smoky, spicy flavour to your dishes. It's perfect for grilled or roasted chicken, fish, pork, beef, or veggies. You can also add it to salsa, sour cream, guacamole, hummus, or sprinkle it on green beans or other veggies before cooking. It can even be mixed with olive oil and smeared on chicken.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons ancho chilli powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon regular paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

Instructions:

• Combine all the spices in a container with a tight-fitting lid.
• Store the mix in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
• When you're ready to use it, start with a teaspoon or two and adjust to your taste.

Now you can easily add a delicious southwest flavour to your meals!

Southwest sauces

Spicy Mayo Sauce

For a creamy and spicy sauce, mix mayonnaise with a generous amount of smoked paprika, a dash of cayenne pepper, and some garlic powder. This sauce pairs well with a variety of cheeses, especially those that have a strong flavour, such as Cheddar or Monterey Jack. The creaminess of the mayonnaise balances the spice, creating a harmonious combination.

Salsa Mayo Adobo Sauce

For a more complex sauce, try making a salsa mayo adobo sauce. Combine mayonnaise with salsa and adobo sauce, creating a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy blend. This sauce is an excellent choice for sandwiches, especially when paired with smoked cheese, bacon, and avocado. The adobo sauce adds a unique, smoky flavour that enhances the overall taste experience.

Southwest Seasoning Mix

Create a Southwest seasoning mix by blending cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground coriander, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This versatile mix can be added to mayonnaise or sour cream for a quick and easy Southwest sauce. It also works well as a dry rub or marinade for grilled meats. The blend of spices captures the essence of Southwestern flavours.

Guacamole with a Twist

Guacamole is a classic Southwest ingredient, and you can elevate it by adding a Southwest seasoning mix. Mash ripe avocados with lime juice, salt, and your seasoning mix. This creates a creamy, spicy, and tangy sauce that pairs beautifully with cheeses like Cheddar or Colby Jack. The avocado provides a smooth base while the spices add a kick of flavour.

Southwest-Style Sour Cream

Sour cream is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a Southwest sauce with just a few additions. Mix sour cream with a Southwest seasoning mix, or add individual spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. This sauce is perfect for drizzling over nachos or using as a dip for crispy tortilla chips. It also works well as a topping for tacos or fajitas.

These Southwest sauce ideas provide a range of options to elevate your cheese-based dishes. Experiment with different combinations of spices, herbs, and ingredients to find your favourite flavour profiles. Remember, you can adjust the spice level to suit your preference, making the sauces milder or hotter as desired. Enjoy exploring the bold and vibrant flavours of the Southwest!

Southwest ingredients

A popular way to incorporate Southwest ingredients is by making a grilled cheese sandwich. The key components of a Southwest grilled cheese sandwich are artisan bread, creamy avocado, a rich homemade Southwest sauce, peppers, and bacon, all melted together with your choice of cheese. You can use a single variety of cheese or a combination of multiple cheeses such as gouda, havarti, and gruyere. For a spicier kick, smoked cheese is a popular option. The sandwich can be served with sides like chips, potato salads, or a classic tomato soup.

If you're looking to create a more substantial meal, you can pair your Southwest sandwich with a bowl of soup, salad, or sides like chips and fries. For those with a heartier appetite, the sandwich can be a filling meal on its own.

In addition to sandwiches, Southwest ingredients can be used in a variety of dishes. You can add the seasoning mix to grilled chicken, fish, pork, or beef, or incorporate it into appetizers, tacos, fajitas, roasts, and more. The versatility of Southwest ingredients allows you to experiment and create an array of flavourful meals.

Frequently asked questions