The Perfect Cheeses To Complement Virginia Ham

Virginia ham is a versatile meat that can be used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to biscuits and wafers. When it comes to cheese, the options are endless, but some classics are a good place to start. Swiss cheese is a popular choice for its meltability and nutty flavour, while cheddar adds a sharp tanginess that pairs well with the saltiness of the ham. For those who want a more subtle cheese flavour, provolone or pepper jack are excellent choices. And for a truly indulgent experience, gruyère is a must-try, with its bold flavour and smooth melting texture. So, whether you're stacking a sandwich, filling a biscuit, or baking wafers, these cheeses will surely enhance the flavour of your Virginia ham.

Swiss cheese is a good choice for Virginia ham sandwiches

When making a Virginia ham and Swiss cheese sandwich, it is important to use good-quality ham and not to skimp on it. The ham should be dry and freshly sliced, with no slick or slimy residue. It should also be sliced very thinly, as this makes it easier to layer, shape, and curl the meat, improving the mouthfeel of the sandwich.

To prepare the sandwich, start by spreading mayonnaise on the inside of both slices of bread. Mayonnaise acts as a glue for the fillings and adds a tangy flavour to the sandwich. Next, add a layer of Swiss cheese to one slice of bread, followed by the Virginia ham. You can also add other toppings such as pickles or mustard at this stage. Finally, top with the second slice of bread, buttered on the outside, and cook the sandwich in a skillet or panini press until the bread is golden and crisp, and the cheese is melted.

For a variation, try serving the Virginia ham and Swiss cheese sandwich on a biscuit or roll, which is a traditional way of serving ham biscuits in Virginia. Toppings such as mustard and cheese are optional, but Swiss cheese is a good choice if you want to include cheese.

Cheddar is another option, especially if thinly sliced

Cheddar is a classic option for a ham and cheese sandwich. Its sharpness will help balance out the saltiness and sweetness of the ham.

If you're making a hot ham and cheese sandwich, thinly sliced cheddar from the deli works best. It's easier to get thin slices from the deli than to try to shave thin slices off a block of cheddar yourself. If you're shaving the cheese yourself, use a potato or vegetable peeler to get more even slices.

For a cold sandwich, you can slice or grate the cheddar. Again, shaving the cheese with a peeler will get you more even slices, and it's less likely that the cheese will fall out of the sandwich.

If you're making a hot ham and cheese sandwich, try toasting the sandwich in a skillet or frying pan. Spread the outside of the sandwich with butter or mayonnaise, then fry both sides until crisp, with the cheese melted in the centre. Alternatively, you can use a sandwich press or toastie machine.

For a Virginia ham biscuit, try a roll instead

The Virginia ham biscuit is a beloved staple in the South, with a history that dates back to colonial times. While the "right" way to make this sandwich depends on where you are in Virginia, the classic version is simple: layer slices of Virginia country ham inside a biscuit or a roll, and top with mustard and Swiss cheese.

If you're looking for a twist on the traditional biscuit, why not try using a roll instead? Rhodes Thaw, Rise & Bake Dinner Rolls are a great option, as they're super soft and squishy on the inside with a nice bit of bite on the outside. They're also raw, so you'll need to let the dough rise before baking, but the end result is definitely worth the extra time.

When it comes to the ham, nothing beats real-deal, freshly carved Virginia country ham. But if you're short on time or don't want to bake an entire ham, Boar's Head Cooked Uncured Ham is a tasty alternative. It's salty and sweet, with excellent marbling that gives it the appeal of fresh-baked ham.

As for the cheese, Swiss is the classic choice. It's melty without being greasy, and its nutty and subtle flavour pairs perfectly with ham. Sargento Sliced Swiss is a widely available option that tastes great and melts beautifully.

To assemble your Virginia ham roll, simply layer slices of ham and cheese inside your roll, and spread the outside with a combination of mayonnaise and mustard. For an extra special touch, try Maille Honey Dijon Mustard, which offers a symphony of sweet, tangy, zesty flavours with a bit of spice.

Now, the moment of truth: cooking the sandwich. Spread butter on the outside of the roll and place it in a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until the roll is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3 minutes per side.

And there you have it! A delicious and comforting Virginia ham roll that's sure to satisfy. Enjoy it on its own or with a cup of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Sargento is the best Swiss cheese to use, widely available in the US

When it comes to choosing the perfect Swiss cheese to pair with Virginia ham, look no further than Sargento. Widely available across the US, Sargento Swiss cheese stands out for its superior taste and meltability, making it the ideal choice for sandwiches, snacks, and other culinary creations.

Sargento's Swiss cheese is crafted with expertise, ensuring a consistent and delicious product that elevates any dish. Its nutty and subtle flavour pairs exceptionally well with the salty and sweet notes of Virginia ham, creating a harmonious combination that delights the palate.

The key to a successful pairing lies in the cheese's ability to melt seamlessly. Sargento's Swiss cheese excels in this regard, as its creamy texture allows it to blend effortlessly with the ham. Whether you're preparing a classic ham and cheese sandwich or experimenting with new recipes, this cheese will provide the desired meltiness that takes your dish to the next level.

In addition to its taste and texture, Sargento's Swiss cheese is also a convenient and accessible option for consumers across the US. Its wide availability means you can easily find it at your local grocery store or supermarket. This convenience is especially valuable when you're crafting recipes that require readily available ingredients.

So, the next time you're contemplating the perfect cheese to accompany your Virginia ham, remember that Sargento's Swiss cheese is the undisputed champion. Its flavour, meltability, and accessibility make it the top choice for anyone seeking to create delectable dishes with ease and convenience.

Try a Virginia ham-and-cheese wafer

The Classic Combo

The ham and cheese sandwich is a stalwart of the American lunchbox, but it's also a beloved staple in France, Brazil, and the UK. This simple yet satisfying combination has stood the test of time and knows no bounds.

Virginia Ham

Virginia ham is a variety of country ham believed to date back to colonial times. It is often served in a biscuit or a roll, with toppings like mustard and cheese. If you can't get your hands on authentic Virginia ham, try a salty-sweet variety from your local deli.

Cheese, Please!

When it comes to cheese, Swiss is a popular choice for its nutty, subtle flavour and melting capabilities. Other options include cheddar, Gruyère, and Red Leicester. Go for a mature or sharp variety to pack in flavour and balance out the saltiness and sweetness of the ham.

Build Your Sandwich

Now it's time to assemble your sandwich. Here's what you'll need:

• Virginia ham, thinly sliced or shaved
• Swiss cheese, mature cheddar, Gruyère, or Red Leicester, thinly sliced or shaved
• Bread, preferably whole grain, whole wheat, or seeded
• Butter, at room temperature
• Mayonnaise
• Dijon mustard
• Freshly cracked black pepper

Step-by-Step Guide

• Bring the cheese to room temperature about 10 minutes before making your sandwich.
• Spread butter on one side of a slice of bread. This will be the bottom layer of your sandwich.
• Place the buttered side down in a skillet or frying pan.
• Layer on the cheese, covering the bread.
• Add the ham, loosely twisting each piece to create a small mound.
• Top with another layer of cheese.
• Butter the top piece of bread and place it butter-side out on top of the cheese.
• Fry your sandwich over medium-low heat. This will ensure the bread doesn't burn before the cheese melts.
• Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3 minutes per side.
• Let the sandwich settle for a minute or two before slicing and serving.

Customise Your Creation

Feel free to add some extra toppings to change up the flavour and texture of your sandwich. Here are some ideas:

• Fresh vegetables like tomatoes, green peppers, or avocado
• Condiments such as spicy mustard, mayonnaise, honey mustard, or horseradish
• Black olives, pickles, or banana peppers

So, there you have it! A delicious Virginia ham-and-cheese wafer, perfect for a quick lunch or an addition to your lunchbox. Enjoy!

Frequently asked questions