Kamil Perry
There are many types of cheese that are great for dipping, including cheddar, brie, camembert, blue cheese, and mozzarella. The best cheese for dipping depends on the type of dip you want to make, as well as your personal preference for cheese. For example, if you want a stretchy, melty cheese dip, a blend of mozzarella and a more flavourful cheese like cheddar is a good option. If you're making a cheese sauce, you might prefer to use white American cheese, as it melts very well.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese that melts well | White American cheese, Mozzarella, Oaxaca cheese, Brie, Cheddar, Swiss Cheese, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Camembert |
| Cheese that is versatile | Cheddar |
| Cheese that is easy to make | Camembert |
| Cheese that goes well with bread | Camembert, Brie |
| Cheese that goes well with potatoes | Camembert, Cheddar |
| Cheese that goes well with meat | Blue cheese |
| Cheese that goes well with vegetables | Sharp Cheddar, Gouda |
| Cheese that goes well with pretzels | Sharp Cheddar |
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What You'll Learn
Best cheeses for nachos
When it comes to nachos, cheese is an essential component of the dish. The right type of cheese can make all the difference in the flavour and texture of your nachos. While you can technically use any type of cheese for nachos, some cheeses work better than others.
Cheddar is a classic choice for nachos. It has a mild, tangy flavour that pairs well with other ingredients, and it is known for its melting ability. For the best melting ability, shred the cheese yourself. You can shred cheddar cheese and sprinkle it on top of the nachos or melt it in a saucepan for a cheesy dip. To make a cheese sauce, you can use equal amounts of cheese and milk or slightly more cheese than milk. You can also add some butter, flour and milk/water to the cheese to make a roux.
Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, and Queso Blanco are also good options for nachos due to their melting ability. A combination of cheeses will give you even better results. For example, you can use two parts extra sharp cheddar and one part Colby-Jack, or a blend of mozzarella or Oaxaca cheese with a more flavourful cheese like cheddar or pepper jack.
Some cheeses should be avoided for nachos, such as hard cheeses like Parmesan and Pecorino, which have a high oil content and don't melt well. Aged cheeses also have a sharper flavour that can be too strong and overpowering. This includes cheeses like feta and blue cheese, which are known to be more pungent.
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Best cheeses for fondue
When it comes to choosing the best cheese for fondue, there are several options to consider, each with its unique flavour and texture. Here are some recommendations for creating a delicious and indulgent fondue experience:
Cheddar cheese is a versatile choice for fondue. While it is a hard cheese that requires additional liquid to melt smoothly, it offers a rich and creamy texture when prepared correctly. For an extra layer of flavour, consider using a sharp or extra sharp variety, or even infusing it with bourbon whiskey for a complex, spicy kick. Another creative twist is to rub the cheddar with lavender and espresso, imparting notes of butterscotch and caramel.
Camembert, a popular French cheese, is another excellent option for fondue. It has a creamy texture and a distinct earthy flavour reminiscent of mushrooms. Baking a whole camembert in the oven and opening it up reveals a delightful oozy paste that pairs well with herbs, spices, and bacon bits. This fondue option is perfect for dipping bread, potatoes, and delicatessen foods.
Brie is another soft and creamy cheese that lends itself well to fondue. Its buttery taste and smooth texture make it a delightful choice. For a truly indulgent experience, opt for a double cream Brie, such as Alouette, which offers exceptionally mild flavours. Brie en Croute is also a popular choice, adding a decorative touch to your fondue presentation.
For those who enjoy a blend of cheeses, a combination of mozzarella and Oaxaca cheese creates a stretchy, melty base for your fondue. Adding a more flavourful cheese like cheddar or pepper jack can then enhance the overall taste experience. This blend is perfect for those who want a fondue that stretches beautifully when dipped.
When preparing cheese fondue, it is essential to cook the cheese thoroughly until it is completely melted. This process ensures a smooth and creamy consistency. Additionally, serving fondue warm is ideal, as it helps maintain the melted state of the cheese. However, some cheese varieties, like blue cheese, can be allowed to cool without solidifying, providing a different texture for your fondue experience.
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Best cheeses for sauces
When it comes to cheese sauces, there are many options to choose from, each with its own unique flavour and texture. Here are some of the best cheeses for creating delicious and creamy sauces:
Cheddar
Cheddar is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, including burgers, pasta, and dips. While it is a hard cheese that doesn't melt easily, adding some liquid can help create a smooth and creamy sauce. For an extra flavour boost, try using a sharp or extra sharp cheddar, or even infuse it with bourbon whiskey for a complex spiciness.
Camembert
Camembert is a French cheese similar to Brie in taste but with a creamier texture. To make a Camembert dip, bake the cheese in the oven and open up the top to reveal the creamy paste. You can then add herbs, spices, and bacon bits to complement the cheese. This dip is traditionally served with bread, potatoes, and delicatessen items.
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese makes an excellent sauce, especially when paired with meat fondue. To achieve the perfect consistency, cook the blue cheese with cream and herbs, as it tends to liquify when heated. This sauce can be served with crudités and other cold foods.
Brie
Brie is a soft and creamy cheese with a buttery taste. When used in sauces or dips, it adds a smooth and mild flavour. Brie en crute is a popular choice for charcuterie boards and can be easily found in grocery stores or made at home.
Mozzarella and Oaxaca Cheese
For a stretchy and melty cheese sauce, a blend of mozzarella or Oaxaca cheese is a perfect choice. These cheeses melt well and can be combined with more flavourful cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack to create a well-rounded sauce.
American Cheese
American cheese, specifically white American cheese, is known for its excellent melting properties. It is a popular choice for making queso, a cheese sauce commonly used for nachos, fries, and other finger foods.
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Best cheeses for charcuterie
When creating a charcuterie board, the art of pairing dips with meats and cheeses is essential to achieving a harmonious symphony of flavours. Here are some of the best cheeses for charcuterie:
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese is a tangy and pungent cheese that adds a distinct character to your charcuterie board. It pairs well with robust but not sharp dips like olive tapenade, which is made with mashed olives, capers, herbs, and spices. Blue cheese also goes well with a dressing made from roasted red peppers, celery, wings, or other meat varieties.
Goat Cheese
Goat cheese, also known as chevre, is a soft and creamy cheese that can be paired with a variety of dips. It can be marinated or served with honey, making it a versatile addition to your charcuterie board.
Brie Cheese
Brie cheese is a soft and creamy cheese that becomes gooey and melty when baked, making it perfect for dipping. It pairs well with honey, creating a simple yet elegant combination.
Mozzarella
Mozzarella is a mellow and creamy cheese that goes well with earthy and mushroomy truffle sauce. It can also be used in a hot Caprese dip, which includes tomatoes and basil, and is served with veggies, crackers, or pita chips.
Feta Cheese
Feta cheese is a salty and tangy cheese that can be whipped with red pepper flakes to create a rich and creamy dip. It can also be combined with lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs to make a whipped yogurt feta dip.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is a versatile cheese that can be used in both sweet and savoury dips. It can be whipped for a lighter texture or combined with hot-smoked salmon, sour cream, mayo, and dill to make a smoked salmon dip. Cream cheese can also be mixed with buffalo sauce, ranch, and chicken for a heartier dip.
In addition to these cheeses, consider adding some fresh or dried fruit, crackers, chocolate, and herbs to your charcuterie board for a well-rounded and visually appealing spread.
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Best cheeses for baking
When it comes to baking with cheese, there are several varieties that stand out for their flavour and melting properties. Here are some of the best cheeses for baking:
Cheddar
Cheddar is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, from burgers to pasta. When it comes to baking, cheddar is a good option because of its strong flavour and melting capabilities. However, as a hard cheese, it requires some extra steps to melt properly. Adding a liquid, such as beer, wine, or butter, can help create a smooth, oozy consistency. For an extra flavour boost, try infusing your cheddar with bourbon whiskey or rubbing it with lavender and espresso for notes of butterscotch and caramel.
Camembert
Camembert is a French cheese similar to Brie in taste but with a creamier texture. Baking whole Camembert in the oven and opening it up with a cheese wire creates a delicious, oozy dip that pairs well with bread, potatoes, and delicatessen meats. Herbs, spices, and bacon bits can also be added to complement the creamy cheese. One full Camembert can generously serve up to two people.
Brie
Brie is a soft and creamy cheese with a buttery taste. When baked, it becomes even creamier and can be used as a dip or spread. Brie en Croute, or baked Brie in puff pastry, is a popular option for a tasty and visually appealing dish. Brie can also be rolled in sliced almonds, craisins, or pistachios for a unique flavour profile.
Mozzarella and Oaxaca Cheese
For stretchy, melty cheese, mozzarella and Oaxaca cheese are excellent choices. These cheeses have great melting properties and can be paired with more flavourful cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for an extra kick. They are perfect for dishes like nachos or cheesy fries, where you want the cheese to be gooey and stretchy.
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese is a unique option for baking, as it tends to liquify when hot, making it better suited for sauces rather than dips. However, by cooking it with cream and herbs, you can create a creamy blue cheese dip that pairs well with crudités and cold foods. Blue cheese sauces can also be used for meat fondue or added to macaroni and cheese for a flavourful twist.
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Frequently asked questions
For nachos, a blend of mozzarella or Oaxaca cheese with a more flavourful cheese like cheddar or pepper jack is recommended. White American cheese is also a good option as it melts very well.
Fondue is a great way to enjoy many types of cheese. Cheddar is a popular choice, but it is a hard cheese that won't melt easily, so you'll need to add some liquid. Camembert is another option—bake the whole cheese in the oven and open it up with a cheese wire to reveal the oozy paste, which you can customise with herbs, spices and bacon bits.
Brie en croute is always a hit and looks very pretty. You could also try a cheese ball made of goat cheese, cream cheese and herbs, decorated with whole almonds.
Sharp cheddar is a good option for a dip to go with vegetables. You could also try a cheese sauce made with pepper jack or gouda.
