Country Ham's Best Cheese Pairings: A Tasty Guide

Country ham and cheese is a classic combination, with a multitude of options to choose from. The type of cheese you select can elevate your meal from ordinary to opulent. While cheddar, provolone, and Swiss are reliable and satisfying options, there are several other cheeses that can be used to create a more luxurious sandwich. For instance, the nutty and smooth flavour of smoked gouda, or the tangy allure of extra sharp cheddar, can add depth and intrigue to your sandwich.

Country ham and cheese spread

Preparing the Country Ham

Country ham is a traditional food from Kentucky, typically cured but not smoked, and is known for its dry texture and intense flavour. To prepare the ham, simply toss your leftover ham into a food processor and pulse until you have fine bits. You can also use a knife to chop it finely if you prefer. This step is crucial to ensure the spread has a smooth and spreadable consistency.

Softening the Cream Cheese

For the best results, start with a brick of cream cheese at room temperature. Let it sit out for a while until it's soft enough to mix easily with the other ingredients. This step is important for achieving a creamy and homogeneous spread.

Mixing the Ingredients

Once your ham is processed and your cream cheese is softened, it's time to combine them. Using a fork, mix the ham and cream cheese together until they are fully incorporated. You can also season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, depending on the saltiness of your ham. Don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Adding Extra Ingredients

While the basic combination of country ham and cream cheese is delicious on its own, you can take it up a notch by adding a few extra ingredients. A bit of mayonnaise will add some tanginess and moisture to the spread, while chopped fresh chives or green onions bring a fresh herbal flavour. You can also experiment with other add-ins like chopped celery or corn for a unique twist.

Refrigerating and Serving

Once you've mixed all the ingredients, pack the spread into a serving bowl and refrigerate it for a few hours to let the flavours blend. This spread is best served cold and can be a delicious addition to any charcuterie board or appetizer spread. Serve it with crackers or toasted baguette slices, and garnish with extra chopped chives for a pop of colour and flavour.

Storing and Freezing

This country ham and cheese spread will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, stored in a covered container. If you want to make a bigger batch, you can even freeze it in a well-sealed container for up to 1 month. Simply thaw it in the refrigerator before serving, and you'll have a tasty spread ready to go whenever you need it.

Toasted vs. untoasted

The age-old debate of whether to toast or not to toast your sandwich can be a polarising topic. Both options have their pros and cons, and ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Here is a detailed breakdown of the toasted and untoasted approaches to the classic ham and cheese sandwich.

Toasted

Toasting your ham and cheese sandwich can take it to the next level, creating a warm and comforting meal that is ideal for a cool night. Toasting the sandwich melts the cheese, resulting in a gooey, indulgent treat. The heat also enhances the flavour of the ham and creates a satisfying contrast between the crispy bread and the chewy filling. Toasting is a great option if you want a more substantial and indulgent sandwich.

To achieve the perfect toasted ham and cheese sandwich, there are a few key steps to follow. Firstly, it is recommended to use a skillet or a non-stick pan to toast your sandwich. You can spread butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread, adding a tangy flavour and helping to achieve the desired golden colour. Place the sandwich in the pan over medium heat and cook until the bread is crisp and the cheese is melted, typically for a few minutes on each side. For an even toast, it is important to keep an eye on the sandwich and adjust the heat as needed.

Another option for toasting your sandwich is to use a toastie machine, panini press, or sandwich press. These appliances are designed to heat and press your sandwich, creating a structurally secure and evenly toasted result. Similar to the skillet method, you would spread butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread before placing it in the machine or press.

Untoasted

On the other hand, an untoasted ham and cheese sandwich is a classic for a reason. It is simple, quick to make, and can be easily customised to your liking. An untoasted sandwich is also more portable, making it a convenient option for packed lunches or picnics.

To make a delicious untoasted ham and cheese sandwich, the key is in the ingredients and assembly. Start by choosing your bread; wholemeal seeded bread or whole grain bread is a popular choice for this sandwich. Then, select your cheese—classic options include cheddar, Swiss, or Red Leicester, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like Gruyère, Havarti, or Fontina. The ham you choose should be of good quality, preferably thinly sliced from the deli counter.

When assembling the sandwich, it is recommended to spread mayonnaise and/or butter on the inside of the bread to add flavour and act as a "glue" for the fillings. A thin layer of Dijon mustard can also be added to the sandwich for a gentle background flavour. Finally, add your desired amount of shaved, sliced, or grated cheese and ham, and there you have it—a classic untoasted ham and cheese sandwich.

Best bread for a ham and cheese sandwich

There are many types of bread that can be used for a ham and cheese sandwich, and the best choice will depend on your personal preference. Here are some options to consider:

French or Italian Bread

French and Italian bread have a crusty texture that pairs well with the savoury taste of ham. Their chewy texture also allows them to hold up to the other ingredients in the sandwich.

Sourdough

Sourdough bread has a tangy taste that complements savoury ingredients like ham. It also has a chewy texture, making it a good option for a sandwich.

Wheat Bread

Wheat bread adds a nutty flavour and more texture to a ham and cheese sandwich. It is also a healthier option, as it is high in fibre and other nutrients.

Rye Bread

Rye bread has a distinctive, robust flavour and a chewy and dense texture. It pairs well with both sweet and savoury ingredients, making it a versatile choice for sandwiches.

Ciabatta

Ciabatta is a light and airy bread with a slightly chewy crust. It has large holes that make it ideal for soaking up juices from meats and condiments, so it can be a good choice for a juicy ham and cheese sandwich.

Focaccia

Focaccia is a slightly sweet Italian flatbread with an oily texture that helps keep the sandwich together. It is also crispy on the surface and has a unique, rich, chewy crumb.

Brioche

Brioche is a French pastry-style bread with a light, fluffy texture and a slightly sweet flavour. It is enriched with butter, giving it a rich, golden colour. Brioche can add a fancy touch to a ham and cheese sandwich.

Multigrain Bread

Multigrain bread has a nutty flavour and a denser texture than white or whole wheat bread. It is also more nutritious, with extra protein, fibre, and vitamins.

Seeded Bread

Seeded bread has a rich, nutty flavour and a variety of textures from the seeds. It pairs well with most savory ingredients and can be a good choice for adding extra texture to a ham and cheese sandwich.

When choosing the best bread for a ham and cheese sandwich, consider the texture and flavour of the bread, as well as how well it will hold up to the other ingredients. For a classic ham and cheese sandwich, sliced white bread or wholemeal seeded bread are popular choices.

Best cheese for a ham and cheese sandwich

The classic ham and cheese sandwich is a staple in many cultures, but what type of cheese is the best to use? There are many options to choose from, each with its own unique flavour and texture profile. Here are some of the top contenders for the best cheese to use in a ham and cheese sandwich:

Extra Sharp Cheddar

Regular cheddar is a popular choice for ham sandwiches due to its creamy texture and mild flavour. However, if you're looking for something a little more sophisticated, extra sharp cheddar is a great option. This variety of cheddar is aged for up to two years, resulting in rich, tangy notes that can elevate your sandwich. Extra sharp cheddar also develops a crunchier and crumblier texture due to the formation of calcium lactate crystals. The cheese's sharp flavour and unique texture create a delightful contrast with the sweet and salty ham. To further enhance this combination, consider adding some fruitiness to the sandwich, such as apple slices or fig slices with peppery arugula.

Smoked Gouda

Buttery, nutty, and smooth, smoked gouda is a cheese that can truly transform your ham sandwich. The subtle smokiness of this cheese evokes the irresistible allure of bacon, creating a flavour profile that pairs exceptionally well with ham. The smoky notes intertwine with the savoury essence of the meat, resulting in a sandwich with unprecedented depth of flavour. For a delectable option, layer smoked gouda with ham, baby spinach leaves, and honey mustard on crusty artisan bread. Or, for a fancier take, pair smoked gouda with ham, frisée, and caramelized onions on country white or sourdough bread.

Havarti

Havarti is a creamy, semi-soft cheese that originates from Denmark. It is known for its springy texture and small, irregular openings called "eyes." While young Havarti can be a bit bland, it matures into a tangy and slightly acidic masterpiece with hints of hazelnut in just three months. This sweet and tangy flavour makes Havarti an ideal partner for ham. For a simple and exquisite sandwich, top Hawaiian rolls with ham, Havarti, and mayonnaise, and bake them after covering with a sauce made of mustard, onion, poppy seeds, and Worcestershire sauce. Alternatively, you can slather homemade focaccia bread with apricot jam and honey, layer Havarti and ham on top, and grill until the cheese melts to perfection.

Brie

Brie is a soft, creamy cheese that hails from northern France. It boasts a mild, nutty flavour and a characteristic bloomy rind, with a distinctive mushroomy essence that tantalizes the palate. The combination of Brie and ham works beautifully due to the contrast between the velvety texture of the cheese and the chewy fleshiness of the ham. Additionally, the slight earthiness of Brie adds a touch of sophistication to the sandwich without overpowering the robust flavours of the meat. For an unforgettable ham and Brie sandwich, try adding slices of Granny Smith apple, arugula, and mustard aioli to a baguette. Or, for a classic French café experience, pair Brie with pear, honey mustard, and salted butter, and grill the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the Brie oozes from the sides.

Gruyère

Gruyère is a semi-hard cheese crafted from whole cow's milk in the picturesque Swiss town of Gruyères. It is known for its subtle flavour, creamy texture, and modest scattering of small holes. Gruyère is a favourite choice for chicken cordon bleu, fondue, French onion soup, and the iconic croque monsieur. Its reputation for elevating ham and cheese pairings makes it an excellent option for a luxurious ham sandwich. The subtle flavour and creamy texture of Gruyère enhance the richness of the ham without overwhelming it. Younger Gruyère offers nutty notes, while older varieties develop a complex earthiness with age. Additionally, Gruyère's high water-to-oil ratio makes it ideal for ham and cheese paninis as it melts exceptionally well. To add a touch of indulgence to your sandwich, incorporate chopped cornichons and Dijon mustard.

Red Leicester

Red Leicester is a distinctive cheese that hails from Leicestershire, England, and is known for its deep russet-red hue. This colour is achieved by the addition of annatto, a natural pigment derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. Red Leicester has a flaky and moist texture, setting it apart from cheddar, with which it is often confused. Its nutty flavour caramelizes as it ages, creating a savoury profile that pairs exceptionally well with the saltiness of ham. The crumbly texture of this cheese adds an intriguing layer to the mouthfeel, enhancing the overall eating experience. Whether you layer it on a rustic roll or incorporate it into a grilled panini, Red Leicester brings a touch of luxury to your ham sandwich. To elevate this combination even further, consider adding caramelized onions, pickles, or a mild mustard.

Best ham for a ham and cheese sandwich

The ham and cheese sandwich is a classic. It's simple, comforting, and the perfect meal for any time of day. But what type of ham is best for this beloved sandwich?

When choosing the ham for your sandwich, it's important to consider both quality and quantity. You'll want to use a high-quality ham that you've had the chance to taste beforehand, preferably from a deli counter. Look for ham that is dry and not too thin, as this can indicate that it hasn't been freshly sliced. The type of ham is up to your preference—Black Forest, Virginia, honey-roasted, or even capocollo are all great options. Just make sure the slices are thin, as this will make it easier to layer and shape the meat.

For a truly indulgent sandwich, consider using country ham. Country ham is a traditional food from Kentucky, dry-cured and aged for several months, resulting in a drier and more intense flavour than regular ham. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try a smoked ham, such as Black Forest ham, which will add a subtle smokiness to your sandwich.

When building your sandwich, don't skimp on the ham. A generous amount of ham, such as three ounces per sandwich, will ensure a big, hammy taste without making the sandwich unwieldy. And if you're feeling creative, try folding or curling the ham over itself to give your sandwich some height and structure.

Now that we've discussed the best type of ham for your sandwich, let's talk about some delicious ham and cheese combinations to elevate your sandwich-making game:

• Extra sharp cheddar: This variety of cheddar matures for up to two years, developing rich, tangy notes that pair perfectly with the sweet and salty flavours of ham. Try adding apple slices and mustard to your sandwich for a fruity twist.
• Smoked Gouda: Buttery, nutty, and slightly smoky, smoked Gouda will transform your ham sandwich. The smoky flavour pairs beautifully with ham, evoking the irresistible allure of bacon. Combine smoked Gouda with ham, baby spinach, and honey mustard on crusty bread for a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and nutty flavours.
• Havarti: This creamy, semi-soft cheese from Denmark will elevate your ham sandwich into a gourmet experience. Young Havarti is mild, but with age, it transforms into a tangy, slightly acidic masterpiece with hints of hazelnut. Try topping Hawaiian rolls with ham, Havarti, and mayonnaise, or grill homemade focaccia bread with Havarti, ham, and apricot jam for a traditional yet exquisite sandwich.
• Brie: Hailing from France, Brie is a soft, creamy cheese with a mild, nutty flavour and a characteristic bloomy rind. Its velvety texture and slight earthiness make it an elegant pairing with ham. For a memorable sandwich, combine Brie with Granny Smith apple slices, arugula, and mustard aioli on a baguette, or go for the classic combination of Brie, pear, honey mustard, and salted butter.
• Red Leicester: This distinctive English cheese has a deep russet-red hue thanks to the addition of annatto, a natural pigment. Red Leicester has a flaky, moist texture and a mild nutty flavour that caramelises as it ages. Its savoury, nutty notes align perfectly with the saltiness of ham, making it an excellent choice for a rustic roll or grilled panini.
• Gruyère: This semi-hard cheese from Switzerland is a classic choice for a ham and cheese sandwich. Gruyère has a subtle flavour and creamy texture, with nutty notes in its youth and a complex earthiness as it ages. Its exceptional melting capabilities make it ideal for paninis, and its subtle flavour enhances the richness of the ham without overwhelming it.
• Honey ham: For a touch of sweetness, honey ham is a delightful choice. Pair it with extra sharp cheddar cheese and honey mustard on potato bread, or go for a classic combination of brown mustard and cheddar on homemade peasant bread.
• Black Forest ham: This variety of ham is perfect for a hot sandwich. Try pairing it with Swiss and Gruyère cheese on brioche, or go for a cold sandwich with brown mustard and cheddar.

Frequently asked questions