Randy Chandler
Summer sausage and cheese make a great snack or appetizer. The best cheese to pair with summer sausage is a matter of personal preference, but some popular options include smoked gouda, smoked cheddar, and sharp cheddar. When creating a cheese platter with summer sausage, it is important to include a variety of cheeses, crackers, and pickled relishes. Summer sausage is a semi-dry cured, smoked meat that is perfect for entertaining because it is inexpensive and easier to chew than other cured meats.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Smoked gouda, sharp cheddar, provolone, smoked cheddar blend |
| Cheese form | Block |
| Temperature | Regular |
| Texture | Harder cheese |
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What You'll Learn
Smoked gouda is a good pairing
When it comes to summer sausage, smoked gouda is a fantastic pairing. This combination is a great choice for game day entertaining, as smoked gouda pairs well with smoked meats and beer. Smoked gouda is a semi-hard cheese that holds up well when served with summer sausage, and its distinct flavour comes through clearly.
While some people opt for high-temperature cheese in their summer sausages, others prefer to serve the sausage with sliced cheese on the side. This is because, while high-temperature cheese may look good in the sausage, it can affect the flavour of the cheese, and it doesn't always melt during the smoking process. As a result, you may be better off adding a slice of smoked gouda on top of your summer sausage, or serving it on a cracker alongside.
If you're creating a cheese platter with summer sausage, it's a good idea to slice the cheese before it goes on the platter. This makes it easier for your guests to serve themselves. To keep things simple, opt for a mildly flavoured cracker that won't overpower the flavours of the sausage and cheese.
When it comes to the summer sausage itself, this is an inexpensive option that's perfect for entertaining. It's also easier to chew than cured meats, so you have more flexibility when it comes to slice sizes.
Overall, if you're looking for a delicious and impressive pairing for your summer sausage, smoked gouda is an excellent choice. It's a versatile option that can be served in a variety of ways and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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High-temperature cheese is unnecessary
When it comes to choosing the best cheese to accompany summer sausage, there are a variety of options to consider. While some may contemplate the necessity of high-temperature cheese, it is important to recognize that high-temperature cheese is unnecessary for several reasons. Firstly, the purpose of high-temperature cheese is to withstand higher cooking temperatures without melting, which is not a requirement for summer sausage. Summer sausage is typically served cold, eliminating the need for cheese that can withstand high heat.
Regular cheese holds up just fine when paired with summer sausage. In fact, some people prefer the flavor of regular cheese over high-temperature cheese. The key is to opt for harder cheeses such as sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, or provolone. These cheeses not only complement the flavor of the sausage but also provide a satisfying texture. Freezing the cheese before use can also help it hold its shape, ensuring a pleasant presentation.
Additionally, the versatility of summer sausage allows for a range of cheese pairings. While some may prefer the convenience and appearance of high-temperature cheese, it is not essential for a tasty combination. Summer sausage pairs well with a variety of cheeses, including those that are readily available and beloved by many. Why limit yourself to high-temperature cheese when you can experiment with different flavors and create unique taste profiles?
Furthermore, the focus of a delicious summer sausage and cheese combination should be on the quality of the ingredients rather than the need for high-temperature cheese. By selecting a flavorful summer sausage and complementing it with a cheese that enhances its flavors, you can create a more memorable culinary experience. The addition of crackers, condiments, and pickled relishes can also elevate the overall taste and presentation.
In conclusion, high-temperature cheese is unnecessary when pairing cheese with summer sausage. By choosing regular cheese, particularly harder varieties, you can achieve a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The key is to focus on the quality of the ingredients and explore pairings that suit your taste preferences. So, feel free to experiment with different cheeses and create your own perfect summer sausage platter, without the need for high-temperature cheese.
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Sharp cheddar works well
When it comes to cheese, sharp cheddar is a popular choice. Cheddar is a harder cheese that holds up well when served with summer sausage, especially since the sausage is typically eaten cold. Freezing the cheese beforehand can also help it hold its shape. Sharp cheddar has a strong flavour that pairs well with the sausage, and it won't melt during smoking, so you can enjoy the taste of the cheese alongside the sausage.
Some people prefer to use high-temperature cheese in their sausages, but this is not necessary for summer sausage. Regular cheese works just fine, and some people even prefer the flavour of regular cheese over high-temperature cheese.
When serving summer sausage and sharp cheddar, it is recommended to slice the cheese beforehand to make it easier for guests to serve themselves. A mildly flavoured cracker, such as a saltine, water cracker, or stone-ground wheat cracker, can also be used to complement the flavours of the sausage and cheese without overwhelming them.
In addition to sharp cheddar, other cheeses that go well with summer sausage include smoked gouda, provolone, and smoked cheddar. However, sharp cheddar is a great choice for those looking for a cheese that will hold its shape and provide a strong flavour to complement the summer sausage.
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Regular cheese holds up fine
Regular cheese can be a great option to pair with summer sausage. In fact, some people prefer the flavour of regular cheese over high-temperature cheese. While high-temperature cheese is designed to withstand higher temperatures without melting, regular cheese can still hold up just fine in summer sausage. Freezing the cheese chubs prior to vacuum sealing can help improve their stability.
When it comes to regular cheese, harder cheeses tend to work best. Options like sharp cheddar, smoked cheddar, provolone, and gouda are all excellent choices that can complement the flavour of summer sausage. These cheeses can add a nice sharpness or smokiness to the sausage, enhancing the overall taste experience.
One of the advantages of using regular cheese is that it often has a better flavour than high-temperature cheese. While high-temperature cheese may provide a prettier slice, regular cheese offers a superior taste that can elevate your summer sausage dish. The key is to choose a cheese that you enjoy and that pairs well with the other ingredients on your platter.
In addition to the type of cheese, the way you prepare and serve the summer sausage and cheese is also important. Slicing the cheese beforehand is recommended, as it makes it easier for guests to serve themselves and ensures that the cheese is more likely to be eaten. Presenting the summer sausage and cheese on a platter with crackers and pickled relishes creates a simple yet delicious appetizer that your guests can enjoy.
Overall, regular cheese holds up just fine with summer sausage, and you can experiment with different varieties to find your favourite combinations. Whether you choose sharp cheddar, provolone, or another hard cheese, the key is to select a flavour that complements the sausage and creates a tasty pairing. So, don't be afraid to get creative and enjoy the art of entertaining with a delicious spread!
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Add cured meats to the platter
When creating a cheese platter with summer sausage, it's important to consider adding some cured meats to the mix. Cured meats such as salami, soppressata, and Italian cured meats like prosciutto or capicola are all excellent choices to pair with summer sausage. These meats add variety and depth of flavor to your platter, and they complement the summer sausage's texture and taste.
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, summer sausage is a great choice as it tends to be less expensive than other cured meats. It's also easier to chew, so your guests won't have to worry about tough, chewy slices. When serving salami or similar meats, remember to slice them thinly to ensure a better dining experience.
When arranging your platter, aim for a crowded presentation rather than leaving spaces between the items. Place the summer sausage in a fish scale pattern, allowing it to touch the cheese. Fill in the gaps with crackers, and if you have any extra, put them in a small bowl or cracker tray nearby. This way, your guests can easily help themselves and enjoy the combination of flavors.
To elevate your platter even further, consider adding some "fancier" cheeses, such as Smoked Gouda. This variety pairs exceptionally well with smoked meats and beer, making it a perfect choice for game days or casual get-togethers. While some sources suggest leaving the cheese whole, pre-slicing the cheese before serving is often more convenient for your guests. Keeping the slices in the same shape as the cheese block helps guests identify the variety and makes for an appealing presentation.
Lastly, don't forget to include some pickled relishes and condiments, such as mustard, to add a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the meats and cheeses. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations, and remember that a well-curated platter is a delightful way to entertain and satisfy your guests.
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Frequently asked questions
The best cheese to pair with summer sausage is a smoked cheddar blend. However, summer sausage also goes well with any of your favorite cheeses, such as smoked gouda, sharp cheddar, or provolone.
Hickory Farms' beef summer sausage is a popular choice, as it is ready to eat and can be sliced thin. Summer sausage is also easy to make at home, and can be made with or without high-temp cheese.
Summer sausage and cheese are often served with crackers. Pickled relishes, cured meats, and mustards are also common accompaniments.
