Andy Montoya
Turkey and cheese sandwiches are a lunchtime classic. While there are many types of cheese that pair well with turkey, smoked turkey breast is best complemented by nutty, smoky cheeses such as provolone, gouda, and cheddar. Provolone is an Italian cheese with a smooth, mild taste and a hint of smokiness. Gouda has a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor, with young gouda melting the best. Sharp cheddar, with its bold, nutty flavor, can stand up to the stronger taste of smoked turkey.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Swiss, Provolone, Cheddar, Havarti, Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, Blue Cheese, Brie, Fontina, Asiago, Gouda, Pepper Jack, Baby Swiss, Cojack |
| Flavour | Mild, nutty, sweet, tangy, sharp, bold, earthy, pungent, smoky, buttery, mildy sweet, bold nutty, spicy, creamy |
| Texture | Firm, dense, smooth, velvety, soft, crumbly, creamy, subtle, sliceable, spreadable, semi-firm, mildy acidic |
| Temperature | Hot, cold |
| Suitable for | Grilled sandwiches, paninis, cold sandwiches, hot turkey sandwiches, grilled cheese, hot grilled sandwiches |
| Pairs well with | Bacon, avocado, lettuce, tomato, spinach, basil, cranberry sauce, honey mustard, bread, sprouts, mayonnaise, sprouts, alfalfa, cucumber, pesto, hummus, olive tapenade, chutney, mustard, horseradish, basil, dill, rosemary, oregano, chipotle, harissa, curry powder, cumin, roasted garlic, marinated artichokes, giardiniera, sunflower seeds, balsamic reduction, stone fruit jam, fresh figs, roasted almonds, radish slices, toasted walnuts, sourdough bread, alfalfa sprouts, small avocados, hot sauce, baguette, whole grain bread, jalapenos, smoked ham, roasted jalapeno peppers, whole grain mustard, watercress, ciabatta, pretzel roll, parsley, lemon zest, arugula, prosciutto, fig jam, baguette, croissant, crusty bread, balsamic vinegar, lavash bread, pita pocket, thick-cut bacon, red bell peppers, kosher salt, sweet potatoes, garlic cloves, dried thyme, scallions, rice, minced garlic, canola oil, tamari, fettuccine pasta, fresh herbs, grated lemon zest, ranch, virginia baked ham, plum tomatoes, chicken stock, palm oil, chicken, baby carrots, grapes, chips, pickles, salami, roma tomatoes, black pepper, romaine lettuce, stone ground mustard, horseradish mustard, red onion, country bread, roasted red peppers, large tomato, leaf lettuce, seasoning, alfalfa sprouts, red onion, honey mustard, fontina cheese, unsalted butter, fresh basil, garlic clove, sourdough bread, blue cheese, lemon juice, pepper, smoked gouda cheese, cherry tomatoes, rye bread, cranberries, dijon mustard, honey, turkey breast, sugar, pepper, cream cheese, smoked gouda, smoked turkey, chipotles in adobo, green onions, tomatoes, lime juice, sliced cucumber, provolone cheese, beaten eggs, deli ham, apple, best foods real mayonnaise, lettuce leaves, whole grain bread, smoked turkey breast, kosher salt, sweet potatoes, garlic cloves, dried thyme, red bell peppers, thick-cut bacon, smoked turkey and sweet potato hash |
What You'll Learn
- Swiss cheese: a mild, nutty, slightly sweet flavour that doesn't overpower the turkey
- Provolone: a smooth, mild taste with a hint of smokiness
- Cheddar: a bold, nutty flavour that can stand up to the stronger taste of smoked turkey
- Monterey Jack: a favourite for hot turkey sandwiches due to its melty quality and mild, buttery taste
- Mozzarella: a delightful creamy texture and subtle tang, pairs well with cold and hot turkey sandwiches
Swiss cheese: a mild, nutty, slightly sweet flavour that doesn't overpower the turkey
When it comes to cheese, Swiss cheese is a versatile option that can complement smoked turkey breast. Swiss cheese, particularly the authentic variety known as Emmenthal, offers a mild, nutty, and slightly sweet flavour profile. This distinct taste is achieved through specific production methods and the diet of the cows, resulting in a cheese that enhances without overpowering the smoked turkey breast.
Swiss cheese is known for its characteristic holes and nutty, buttery notes. The generic name, however, can be misleading, as it often refers to a mass-produced version that falls short of the true Swiss variety. Emmenthal, produced in the Emmental Valley of Switzerland, is the country's oldest and most prestigious cheese. It is crafted from unpasteurized cow's milk, yielding a semi-hard texture and distinctive holes ranging from pea-sized to walnut-sized. The flavour of Emmenthal can vary from nutty to fruity, with subtle sweetness and a faint acidic touch, depending on its maturity.
The flavour of Swiss cheese is influenced by factors such as the fermentation process and the diet of the cows. Authentic Swiss cheese, like Emmenthal, is traditionally made from the milk of grass-fed cows, with Swiss farmers paying close attention to the quality of the milk. The shorter aging periods of mass-produced Swiss cheese contribute to its milder flavour, preventing the development of a complex flavour profile.
When paired with smoked turkey breast, Swiss cheese provides a delightful combination. The mild, nutty, and slightly sweet flavour of Swiss cheese serves as an excellent complement to the smoked turkey, enhancing its taste without overwhelming it. This balance makes Swiss cheese a versatile choice for sandwiches, wraps, or even a classic turkey and cheese platter.
For a simple yet satisfying option, consider a smoked turkey sandwich with Swiss cheese. Layer thinly sliced smoked turkey and Swiss cheese between slices of bread, adding lettuce and a spread of mustard for a tangy kick. This classic combination is a sure crowd-pleaser and can be easily scaled up for larger gatherings.
The Perfect Cheese Pairing for Dry Salami
You may want to see also
Provolone: a smooth, mild taste with a hint of smokiness
Provolone is an Italian cheese with a smooth, mild taste and a hint of smokiness. It is an excellent choice for a smoked turkey sandwich, as its subtle smokiness enhances the flavour of the turkey without overwhelming it. Provolone is available in both smoky and non-smoky varieties, and both pair wonderfully with turkey. It is also a good option if you want a cheese that melts well for hot sandwiches.
For a simple, refreshing lunchtime bite, you can keep it basic with just provolone, smoked turkey, spinach, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Alternatively, for a more complex, Italian-inspired sandwich, pair provolone with pesto mayonnaise, roasted red peppers, fresh basil, and balsamic vinaigrette.
Provolone is also a popular choice for a classic turkey and cheese sandwich. This sandwich typically includes mixed greens, tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil, seasoned with a liberal amount of salt and pepper.
If you're looking for something warm and toasty, you can make a grilled cheese and turkey sandwich in a skillet or frying pan. Simply add butter to the pan, place the sandwich in the pan for a few minutes on each side, and you'll know it's done when the cheese melts and the bread turns a nice golden brown. You can also use a panini press, oven, or sandwich press to make a hot, melty provolone and smoked turkey sandwich.
Cheese and Eggplant: Perfect Pairing or Permission Problem?
You may want to see also
Cheddar: a bold, nutty flavour that can stand up to the stronger taste of smoked turkey
Cheddar is a bold, nutty-flavoured cheese that can stand up to the stronger taste of smoked turkey. Its dense, firm texture makes it ideal for grilled turkey sandwiches, as it melts evenly without becoming runny.
When crafting a sandwich, it's important to consider the balance of flavours and textures. Cheddar's sharpness and density make it a good pairing with smoked turkey, especially when contrasted with other ingredients. For instance, you could combine cheddar with bacon, barbecue sauce, and crispy fried onions for a hearty flavour profile. Alternatively, for a healthier option, pair it with apple slices, honey mustard, and spinach on whole grain bread.
When selecting cheddar for your sandwich, be sure to choose a high-quality, properly aged variety for the best flavour. Aged cheddars offer a more complex taste that can further enhance the flavour of smoked turkey.
In addition to its flavour and texture, cheddar's versatility as an ingredient is another advantage. It can be sliced thinly or melted smoothly, making it suitable for both cold and hot sandwiches. This adaptability allows for a range of creative combinations to suit different preferences and occasions.
When preparing a smoked turkey and cheddar sandwich, consider adding other ingredients to create a well-rounded flavour profile and texture. Crisp vegetables like lettuce, fresh herbs, or roasted red peppers can add a refreshing element. You could also experiment with different types of bread, such as a crusty baguette or a soft whole-grain loaf, to complement the sharpness of the cheddar.
Cheese and Pizza: The Perfect Match for Restaurants
You may want to see also
Monterey Jack: a favourite for hot turkey sandwiches due to its melty quality and mild, buttery taste
Monterey Jack: a favourite for hot turkey sandwiches
When it comes to hot turkey sandwiches, Monterey Jack is a popular choice. Its signature meltability and mild, buttery taste make it a standout option. The cheese easily envelops all the fillings in gooey goodness without overpowering their flavours. If you're after a spicy kick, Pepper Jack cheese offers a similar texture with an added punch of heat.
For an indulgent treat, pair Monterey Jack with sliced turkey, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and barbecue sauce on thick slices of grilled sourdough. Alternatively, opt for a healthier combination with turkey, spinach, and avocado in a grilled whole wheat pita pocket.
Monterey Jack's creamy texture and mild flavour make it a versatile choice for hot turkey sandwiches. It melts beautifully, creating a mouthwatering, ooey-gooey grilled cheese experience. Its subtle taste enhances the turkey rather than competes with it, making it a perfect complement to the meat.
When crafting your hot turkey sandwich with Monterey Jack, consider adding ingredients like bacon, mushrooms, and barbecue sauce for an indulgent option. Or, for a healthier take, combine it with spinach and avocado in a whole wheat pita pocket. No matter your preference, Monterey Jack is an excellent choice for a delicious, satisfying hot turkey sandwich.
Cheese and Fajitas: The Perfect Melty Combination
You may want to see also
Mozzarella: a delightful creamy texture and subtle tang, pairs well with cold and hot turkey sandwiches
Mozzarella is a delightful choice for smoked turkey sandwiches, offering a creamy texture and subtle tang that complements the flavour of the turkey. Whether you're making a cold or hot sandwich, this cheese is a fantastic option.
For a cold sandwich, opt for fresh mozzarella with a soft, sliceable texture. Low-moisture varieties sliced from a block tend to work best, as they melt beautifully on grilled sandwiches without becoming a mushy mess. The mild, milky flavour of fresh mozzarella pairs wonderfully with the light taste of quality deli turkey.
When crafting your sandwich, layer fresh mozzarella, smoked turkey, roasted red peppers, basil pesto, and sliced tomato on a crusty baguette for a delightful Italian-style sandwich. Alternatively, for a lighter option, wrap the same ingredients in lavash bread.
If you're in the mood for a hot sandwich, choose part-skim, low-moisture mozzarella, which melts exceptionally well. Try this cheese with roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, and fresh sage on crusty bread or ciabatta for a delightful, Thanksgiving-inspired sandwich. You can also pair it with avocado, pickled red onions, and spicy mustard greens for a kick.
Mozzarella is a versatile cheese that can elevate your smoked turkey sandwiches, whether they're cold or hot. Its creamy texture and subtle tang make it a perfect complement to the turkey and other ingredients, creating a delightful culinary experience.
The Best Cheeses to Pair with Pesto Pasta
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Swiss, cheddar, provolone, havarti, gouda, and mozzarella are all good options for a cold smoked turkey sandwich.
Havarti, pepper jack, Monterey jack, mozzarella, gouda, and gruyere are all cheeses that melt well and are good options for a hot smoked turkey sandwich.
Some cheese and meat combinations for a smoked turkey sandwich include smoked turkey with provolone and bacon, or smoked turkey with gouda and bacon.
Some cheese, meat, and condiment combinations for a smoked turkey sandwich include smoked turkey with provolone, pesto mayonnaise, and roasted red peppers, or smoked turkey with gouda, smoked paprika mayo, and shredded lettuce.
