Ham Sandwiches: Best Cheeses To Compliment The Classic

A ham and cheese sandwich is a classic, comforting meal. But what type of cheese should you use? There are many options, from the classic cheddar to something more adventurous like pepper jack or Camembert. The choice of cheese depends on the desired flavour profile and texture of the sandwich. For a classic, tangy flavour, cheddar is the way to go. For those who want something more indulgent, extra sharp cheddar or Gruyère will add a rich, nutty taste. Swiss cheese is another popular choice, known for its slightly sweet and nutty flavour. If you're feeling adventurous, try something like pepper jack for a spicy kick, or Camembert for a creamy, buttery texture.

Classic cheese options for a ham sandwich

A ham sandwich is a simple yet delicious meal, but choosing the right cheese can take it to the next level. Here are some classic cheese options that will perfectly complement your ham sandwich:

Cheddar

Cheddar is a trusty and satisfying option for a ham sandwich. Its creamy texture and mild flavour make it a popular choice. For an extra kick of flavour, opt for mature or extra sharp cheddar, which has a bolder, tangier taste and a crunchier texture due to the formation of calcium lactate crystals. The sharpness of mature cheddar will also help balance out the saltiness and sweetness of the ham.

Swiss

Swiss cheese is another classic choice for a ham sandwich. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavour that pairs well with the salty ham. Gruyère, a type of Swiss cheese, is particularly great for ham sandwiches as it melts beautifully and has a stronger flavour than other Swiss varieties.

Provolone

Provolone is a reliable option for a ham sandwich. It has a mild flavour and a semi-soft texture, making it a versatile choice.

Red Leicester

Red Leicester is a distinctive English cheese with a deep russet-red hue. It has a mild, nutty flavour that pairs well with the saltiness of the ham. Its crumbly texture adds an interesting layer to the overall mouthfeel of the sandwich.

Havarti

Havarti is a semi-soft, creamy cheese that originates from Denmark. It has a springy texture and small, irregular openings called "eyes." Young Havarti can be a bit bland, but with age, it transforms into a tangy and slightly acidic cheese with hints of hazelnut, making it an excellent partner for ham.

Brie

Brie is a soft, creamy cheese from northern France. It has a mild, nutty flavour and a characteristic bloomy rind. The velvety texture of Brie creates a satisfying contrast with the chewy texture of the ham. Its slight earthiness adds a touch of sophistication to the sandwich without overpowering the robust flavour of the meat.

Emmental

Emmental, also known as Swiss cheese, is aged for at least four months, giving it more pronounced nutty and fruity flavours. This prolonged maturation adds depth of flavour that pairs perfectly with salty ham. The large holes in this cheese also add visual appeal to your sandwich.

Toasted vs cold ham and cheese sandwiches

The classic combination of ham and cheese in a sandwich is a quick, easy, and tasty meal. While some prefer a cold ham and cheese sandwich, others like to toast it up. Here's a detailed comparison of the two methods, along with some tips and tricks to elevate your sandwich experience.

Cold Ham and Cheese Sandwiches

For a simple and quick lunch, a cold ham and cheese sandwich is an excellent option. The beauty of this sandwich lies in its versatility. You can use a variety of breads, from wholemeal seeded bread to crusty baguettes or even homemade focaccia. As for the cheese, cheddar is the most classic choice, but feel free to experiment with Gruyère, Swiss, Red Leicester, or even extra sharp cheddar for a bolder flavour.

When preparing the sandwich, you can spread butter, mayonnaise, or a combination of both on the bread. A thin layer of Dijon mustard adds a subtle background flavour without overpowering the sandwich. Shaving the cheese with a peeler is recommended to get even slices and prevent it from falling out of the sandwich. Finally, add some cracked black pepper, fold the ham to create height, and you're ready to enjoy your cold sandwich.

Toasted Ham and Cheese Sandwiches

To take your ham and cheese sandwich to the next level, toasting it is the way to go. The key to a perfect toasted ham and cheese sandwich is to cook it over medium-low heat to achieve a crispy exterior and a gooey, melted interior. Similar to the cold sandwich, you can use a variety of breads and cheeses for the toasted version. Butter or mayonnaise is typically spread on the outside of the sandwich for toasting, and a toastie machine or a non-stick pan can be used for grilling.

To enhance the flavour and texture, you can sprinkle grated Parmesan on the outside of the bread before toasting, creating a super-crisp, cheesy crust. For the filling, you can add sliced tomatoes, green peppers, avocado, or even a few slices of celery for a refreshing crunch. If you're feeling adventurous, try spreading apricot jam or honey mustard on the bread for a touch of sweetness.

Whether you prefer your ham and cheese sandwich cold or toasted, don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to find your perfect combination.

Condiments to add to a ham and cheese sandwich

A classic ham and cheese sandwich is a simple yet delicious meal. The salty, savoury ham is complemented by the creamy, tangy cheese, creating a flavourful combination that can be enhanced by a variety of condiments. Here are some ideas to elevate your sandwich:

• Mustard is a popular choice, with options such as Dijon, English, or wholegrain adding a gentle background flavour without overpowering the sandwich.
• Mayonnaise is a common addition, providing a creamy texture and a subtle tang.
• Butter is often used to enhance the richness of the sandwich and create a crispy crust.
• Honey mustard offers a sweet and tangy twist, especially when paired with honey ham.
• Horseradish adds a spicy kick to the sandwich.
• Spicy mustard can also be used to bring some heat to the sandwich.
• Apricot preserves provide a touch of complementary sweetness when mixed with mustard.
• Honey drizzled over the sandwich or paired with mustard as a spread can add a delightful touch of sweetness.
• Fig jam is another option to explore, bringing a unique flavour profile to the sandwich.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations of these condiments to create your perfect ham and cheese sandwich!

Toppings to add to a ham and cheese sandwich

There are many ways to elevate a ham and cheese sandwich, from the type of cheese and bread to the toppings you choose. Here are some ideas to make your sandwich extra special:

Cheese

The cheese you choose for your sandwich can make a big difference. While classic options like cheddar, Swiss, and Gruyere are always a good choice, you could try something different like:

• Extra sharp cheddar: Its strong, tangy flavour and crumbly texture can add a sophisticated touch to your sandwich.
• Smoked Gouda: The subtle smokiness of this cheese will remind you of bacon, adding an irresistible depth of flavour.
• Havarti: This Danish cheese has a springy texture and a tangy, slightly acidic taste with hints of hazelnut, making it the perfect partner for ham.
• Brie: Hailing from France, Brie has a mild, nutty flavour and a characteristic bloomy rind. Its velvety texture and slight earthiness will give your sandwich a sophisticated touch.
• Red Leicester: This English cheese has a distinctive deep red hue and a flaky, moist texture. Its nutty flavour will beautifully complement the saltiness of the ham.

Bread

The type of bread you use can also enhance your sandwich-making experience. While wholemeal seeded bread is a popular choice, you could experiment with different options such as:

• Artisanal bread: White, brown, or whole wheat artisanal bread can add a touch of elegance to your sandwich.
• Sourdough: This rustic bread will give your sandwich a unique texture and flavour.
• Croissant: Using a croissant instead of sliced bread can take your sandwich to the next level, especially when paired with Swiss cheese and ham.
• Potato bread: This soft and fluffy bread can be a delicious base for your ham and cheese creation.

Toppings

Now, let's talk about toppings! While a classic ham and cheese sandwich is delicious on its own, adding a few extra ingredients can take it to the next level:

• Mustard: A thin layer of Dijon mustard or another type of mustard can add a gentle background flavour to your sandwich without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Mayonnaise: Mayo can add a creamy texture and a tangy taste to your sandwich. You can spread it directly on the bread or use it as a dipping sauce.
• Butter: Buttering the outside of your bread before toasting it will give your sandwich a crispy crust and a rich flavour.
• Fresh vegetables: Tomatoes, lettuce, spinach, or avocado slices can add freshness and moisture to your sandwich.
• Condiments: Experiment with different condiments like spicy mustard, honey mustard, mayonnaise, or horseradish to give your sandwich an extra kick.
• Other toppings: Black olives, pickles, banana peppers, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on the outside of the bread can take your sandwich to the next level.

Sides to serve with a ham and cheese sandwich

A ham and cheese sandwich is a classic, and there are endless ways to elevate this simple meal. While the sandwich itself is delicious, here are some sides to serve with it to make it even better:

Potato Chips

If you're looking for convenience, potato chips are a great option. Just open a bag and enjoy the crunch alongside your sandwich.

French Fries

For a heartier side, French fries are always a good choice. Go for crinkle cuts, waffle-style, steak fries, or even make your own at home. They're a perfect match for your sandwich.

Pasta Salad

Try pairing your sandwich with a pasta salad, such as a Dill Pickle Pasta Salad. It's a great way to add some variety to your meal and satisfy your comfort food cravings.

Soup

A bowl of hearty soup pairs perfectly with a ham and cheese sandwich. Opt for a classic like Tomato Basil or Beef and Rice Vegetable soup to warm you up from the inside out.

Fresh Vegetables

Add some freshness to your meal with sliced tomatoes, green peppers, or avocado. The options are endless, and they provide a nice contrast to the melted cheese and ham.

Condiments

Enhance your sandwich experience with condiments like spicy mustard, mayonnaise, honey mustard, or horseradish. These additions can elevate the flavours and give your sandwich a little extra kick.

Other Topping Ideas

Think outside the box with toppings like black olives, pickles, or banana peppers. These unexpected ingredients can take your sandwich to the next level and give it a unique twist.

Frequently asked questions