The Best Cheeses To Pair With Pumpernickel Bread

Pumpernickel bread is a German bread originating in the Westphalia region of Germany. It is made with a simple list of ingredients: water, rye flour, and whole flour. However, the baking process is not simple and can take over a day. The distinct dark brown colour and strong flavour of pumpernickel bread make it a versatile loaf that can be paired with a variety of cheeses.

Pumpernickel grilled cheese with apple and thyme

This recipe for pumpernickel grilled cheese with apple and thyme is a fun twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. It's a great option for a Halloween treat, with the black of the pumpernickel bread and the orange of the sharp cheddar coming together to create a spooky, savoury bite. The sweetness of the apple slices also adds a nice contrast to the strong flavours of the pumpernickel and cheddar.

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of hearty pumpernickel bread
• 3/4 pound of very sharp orange cheddar cheese
• 1 Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon of chopped fresh thyme leaves (optional)
• Butter, for grilling

Method:

• Preheat a griddle or skillet on medium heat.
• Thinly slice the cheddar cheese.
• Take four slices of bread and arrange the cheese on top.
• Add a thin layer of apple slices—you won't need the whole apple.
• Spread Dijon mustard on the remaining four slices of bread, and use these to top the sandwiches.
• Melt a small amount of butter on the griddle or in the skillet.
• Grill the sandwiches for about 4 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted and crisp.

Tips:

• For an adult version, you can add chopped fresh thyme leaves to the mustard before spreading it on the bread.
• For a vegetarian option, simply omit the ham or substitute it with a plant-based alternative.
• If you're serving this to kids, you can leave out the Dijon mustard and thyme, or offer it on the side for those who want to add it.

Pumpernickel with cottage cheese and black pepper

Pumpernickel bread is a distinct type of German bread with a unique taste and texture. It is made with a simple list of ingredients, including water, rye flour, and whole flour, but the baking process is time-consuming and can take over a day. The resulting loaf has a slightly sweet and sour flavour with stronger flavours than regular rye bread.

Pumpernickel bread is versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes, such as toast, sandwiches, and croutons. When it comes to cheese, several options pair well with pumpernickel, and one of the most recommended combinations is pumpernickel with cottage cheese and black pepper. Here are some ways to prepare and serve this delicious combination:

Pumpernickel Toast with Cottage Cheese and Black Pepper:

To make this tasty treat, start by toasting slices of pumpernickel bread to your desired level of crispness. Spread a generous amount of cottage cheese on the toast, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Next, sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the cottage cheese. If desired, you can also add sliced onions, tomatoes, and smoked salmon to take this combination to the next level. The pepper provides a nice bite and complements the slightly sweet and sour notes of the pumpernickel, while the cottage cheese adds a creamy texture and a mild, tangy flavour.

Pumpernickel Sandwiches with Cottage Cheese and Black Pepper:

For a heartier option, turn this combination into a sandwich. Spread cottage cheese on two slices of pumpernickel bread. Sprinkle black pepper generously over the cottage cheese. If you'd like, add some sliced cucumbers or arugula for a refreshing crunch. Top it off with another slice of pumpernickel bread. This sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or an afternoon snack.

Pumpernickel Canapés with Cottage Cheese and Black Pepper:

For a more elegant presentation, try making canapés with this flavour combination. Cut pumpernickel bread into small, bite-sized pieces or use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes. Top each piece with a dollop of cottage cheese and a twist of black pepper. You can also add a small slice of tomato or a sprig of dill for colour and extra flavour. These canapés are perfect for appetizers or as part of a larger spread.

Pumpernickel Croutons with Cottage Cheese and Black Pepper:

If you have leftover pumpernickel bread that's a few days old, put those stale slices to good use by making croutons. Cut the pumpernickel bread into small cubes and toast them until they are crispy. Toss the croutons with melted butter, a sprinkle of black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Once cooled, mix the croutons with a generous amount of cottage cheese. These savoury croutons are perfect for adding texture and flavour to a salad or soup.

The versatility of pumpernickel bread and the simplicity of cottage cheese and black pepper make this combination a delicious and easy option for breakfast, lunch, or even a quick snack. The slight sweetness and sourness of the pumpernickel bread are beautifully balanced by the creamy cottage cheese and the bite of the black pepper.

Pumpernickel with egg salad

Pumpernickel bread is a distinct type of German bread with a unique taste and texture. It is made with a simple ingredient list of water, rye flour, and whole flour, but the baking process is time-consuming, requiring the grains to be soaked overnight and then steamed or baked at a low temperature for around 24 hours. The result is a loaf with a slightly sweet and sour flavour and a dark brown colour. This bread is versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes, such as toast, sandwiches, and stuffing.

When it comes to creating a delicious and satisfying meal with pumpernickel bread, one option is to pair it with egg salad. Here are some ideas and suggestions for preparing and serving pumpernickel with egg salad:

Choosing the Right Pumpernickel Bread

Start by selecting a high-quality, freshly baked pumpernickel loaf from your local bakery or grocery store. Look for a loaf with a deep, dark brown colour and a slightly crusty exterior. The bread should have a dense texture and a distinctive flavour that is both slightly sweet and sour.

Preparing the Egg Salad

For the egg salad, hard-boil as many eggs as you need and let them cool before peeling and chopping them. In a bowl, mix the chopped eggs with mayonnaise, a dash of Dijon mustard, and some finely chopped red onion. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other ingredients to the egg salad, such as chopped celery, fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives), or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavours.

Assembling the Pumpernickel with Egg Salad

Cut the pumpernickel bread into slices of your desired thickness. Spread a generous amount of egg salad on one slice of bread. You can add some fresh greens, such as arugula or spinach, on top of the egg salad for an extra layer of flavour and texture. Top it off with another slice of pumpernickel bread.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

• Toasting the Bread: You can lightly toast the pumpernickel bread before assembling the sandwich to add a bit of crunch and enhance the flavour.
• Cheese: Consider adding a slice of sharp cheddar or Swiss cheese to the sandwich for an extra layer of flavour.
• Toppings: Serve the sandwich with a small pickle or some crispy potato chips on the side. You can also top the sandwich with a slice of fresh tomato or a few sprouts for added freshness.
• Spices: If you enjoy spicy food, add a dash of your favourite hot sauce to the egg salad or sprinkle some paprika on top of the sandwich.
• Variations: Instead of a traditional egg salad, you can make a devilled egg filling by mixing the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, and relish, then filling the egg white halves and placing them on the pumpernickel bread.

Storing and Serving Tips

It is best to prepare the egg salad fresh and use it within a day or two for the best flavour and texture. If you need to make it ahead of time, store the egg salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the egg salad to come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavour.

Pumpernickel bread with egg salad is a delicious and hearty meal option that can be served as a satisfying lunch or a quick dinner. The combination of the slightly sweet and sour bread with the creamy and savoury egg salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and serving suggestions to make this dish your own!

Pumpernickel with peanut butter

Pumpernickel bread is a traditional German bread with a unique taste and texture. It is made with a simple list of ingredients, including water, rye flour, and whole flour, but the baking process is time-consuming and can take over a day. The distinct dark brown colour and slightly sweet and sour flavour of pumpernickel bread make it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes.

One surprising pairing that works exceptionally well with pumpernickel bread is peanut butter. For an enhanced flavour and texture experience, opt for crunchy peanut butter. This combination is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. To elevate this pairing, consider adding some complementary ingredients. Here are some suggestions:

• Honey: Drizzle a layer of honey over the peanut butter for a touch of sweetness.
• Fruits: Sliced bananas, apples, or other fruits of your choice can add a refreshing contrast to the savoury peanut butter.
• Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for added crunch and flavour.
• Jam or Marmalade: Spread your favourite jam or marmalade on the pumpernickel bread before adding peanut butter for a sweet and salty combination.
• Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon can add a delightful warmth to the flavour profile.

When creating your pumpernickel and peanut butter combination, feel free to experiment with different types of peanut butter, such as creamy or crunchy, and explore various toppings to find your preferred flavour combinations.

Pumpernickel with aged Swiss cheese

Pumpernickel bread is a German speciality, originating in the Westphalia region of the country. It has a distinct dark brown colour, a slightly sweet and sour taste, and stronger flavours than regular rye bread.

When it comes to cheese, a good pairing for pumpernickel bread is aged Swiss cheese. This combination can be enhanced by adding toppings with strong flavours, such as mustard, liverwurst, onions, corned beef, pastrami, or hard salami. For a more substantial meal, a pumpernickel sandwich with aged Swiss cheese, mustard, and deli meats like corned beef or pastrami would be a delicious option.

If you're looking for a hot sandwich, you can make a grilled cheese sandwich with pumpernickel bread, aged Swiss cheese, and toppings like sliced pickles or thin apple slices. Spread butter on the outside of the bread, and grill the sandwich until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted and crisp.

For a simple yet tasty snack, try topping toasted pumpernickel bread with cream cheese or cottage cheese, sliced onions, tomatoes, and smoked salmon. Sprinkle with black pepper for an added kick.

So, the next time you're looking to indulge in some pumpernickel bread, consider pairing it with aged Swiss cheese and a variety of savoury toppings for a delicious and satisfying treat.

Frequently asked questions