The Perfect Deli Cheeses To Compliment Your Ham

When it comes to creating the perfect sandwich, the pairing of deli meats and cheeses is crucial. The right combination of flavours and textures can elevate a simple meal into a culinary experience. For instance, smoky meats like ham go well with sharp cheeses like cheddar or gouda. Deli ham is best when sliced thinly, as thicker slices can be overpowering. A ham sandwich can be seen as a blank canvas when it comes to cheese, with provolone, American, mozzarella, and cheddar all being popular choices. However, some people prefer a stronger cheese like gouda or Swiss cheese to complement the salty ham.

Deli ham and cheese sandwiches

Choosing the Right Ham

When selecting deli ham, it's essential to opt for thinly sliced ham. This ensures that the ham doesn't overwhelm the other ingredients. Ask your deli counter to slice the ham as thin as possible, and if you're slicing it yourself, go for a thickness that allows you to see the knife through the ham. Basic deli ham works well, but you can also experiment with different varieties such as honey-glazed ham, smoked ham, or ham with spices like pepper or garlic.

Selecting the Perfect Cheese

The cheese you choose for your deli ham sandwich can make all the difference. Mild cheeses tend to pair well with ham. While cheddar is a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, other options like gouda or mozzarella can elevate your sandwich. Provolone, Swiss cheese, and American cheese are also excellent choices that complement the flavour of ham. If you're feeling adventurous, try Italian or Spanish cheese with prosciutto or serrano ham.

Bread Options

The bread you select will be the foundation of your sandwich. Choose a bread that suits your preferences and the overall flavour profile you're aiming for. For a classic option, go for a crusty sub roll, baguette, ciabatta roll, or sourdough bread. If you want to switch things up, try using gluten-free bread, whole wheat bread, or even a French baguette for a fancier feel.

Condiments and Extras

Condiments and extra ingredients can take your sandwich to the next level. Try a spread like mayonnaise, dijon mustard, or honey. If you want a kick of spice, go for a hot pepper jelly or a spicy pepper jam. You can also add fresh vegetables like arugula, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles. Season your veggies with salt and pepper, and finish with a drizzle of olive oil.

Putting It All Together

Now that you have your ingredients, it's time to assemble your sandwich. Start by spreading your chosen condiments on both slices of bread. Layer your cheese and ham, adding more cheese if you want it extra gooey. Add your veggies, season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil. If you're making a grilled sandwich, heat a pan to medium, add butter, and grill your sandwich for 3-4 minutes on each side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Final Thoughts

Creating the perfect deli ham and cheese sandwich is all about personal preference and experimentation. Don't be afraid to try new combinations of ham, cheese, bread, and condiments until you find your favourite. Enjoy the journey of crafting your ultimate deli ham and cheese sandwich!

Best cheese for deli ham sandwiches

When it comes to creating the perfect ham sandwich, the cheese you choose can make all the difference. Deli ham is usually salty, so it's best to pair it with a mild or creamy cheese that won't overpower the meat. Here are some great options for cheeses to accompany your deli ham:

Provolone

Provolone is a popular choice for ham sandwiches. It has a mild flavour and a creamy texture that pairs well with the saltiness of deli ham. It's also a good melting cheese, making it ideal for grilled ham and cheese sandwiches.

Mozzarella

Mozzarella is another mild and creamy cheese that goes well with deli ham. The classic Italian duo of prosciutto and mozzarella is hard to beat, but mozzarella also pairs well with other types of ham. Fresh mozzarella has a softer texture that can be a nice contrast to the meat.

Gouda

Gouda is a nutty, buttery cheese that enhances the flavour of smoked ham. It's a versatile option that works well in sandwiches, salads, or on charcuterie boards. Gouda also melts beautifully, making it a good choice for grilled ham and cheese sandwiches.

Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is a versatile option that can pair well with many types of ham. It has a mild, nutty flavour and a slightly sweet taste that can complement the saltiness of the ham. Swiss cheese also melts well, making it suitable for grilled sandwiches.

Goat Cheese

Goat cheese has a creamy texture and a tangy flavour that can add depth to your ham sandwich. It's not a melting cheese, but it spreads easily and can be paired with a sweet jam to create a unique and delicious ham sandwich.

When creating your deli ham sandwich, don't be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese to find your favourite combination. Consider the texture and flavour profile of the cheese and how it will complement the ham. You can also get creative with condiments, spreads, and other sandwich ingredients to take your creation to the next level.

Prosciutto and mozzarella

Appetiser

Prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella sticks are a simple appetiser that can be made ahead of time and served at room temperature or warm. To make them, cut mozzarella sticks into 3- to 4-inch-long matchsticks, about 1/2-inch thick. Cut the prosciutto into rectangles and wrap a piece of prosciutto around each mozzarella stick, securing it with a toothpick. You can also add a basil leaf to the wrap for a smoky, sweet, and salty flavour combination. These can be served on a platter with a side of balsamic reduction for drizzling.

Sandwich

For a prosciutto and mozzarella sandwich, slice a baguette in half lengthwise and brush both halves with extra virgin olive oil. Broil the bread on low for about 4 minutes, until lightly toasted. Slice mozzarella and vine tomatoes into thin pieces, about a quarter-inch thick. Layer slices of prosciutto, mozzarella, tomato, and basil on the bottom half of the baguette, then top with another slice of prosciutto and close the sandwich. This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, as a summer picnic lunch or under the sun with a cool breeze.

Roast beef and horseradish cheddar

A classic combination, roast beef and horseradish cheddar is a match made in heaven. The sharpness of the cheddar and the kick of the horseradish perfectly complement the savoury, rich flavour of the roast beef.

When making a roast beef sandwich, it is best to use thinly sliced beef, which can be cut from a ribeye roast. The beef can be paired with a creamy horseradish sauce, made with sour cream, lemon juice, and chives, and seasoned with salt and pepper. This sauce can be spread on the bun, with the beef and cheese stacked on top. To add some crunch, you can include some lettuce, such as arugula or micro-greens, and vegetables like radishes, red onions, and tomatoes.

For the cheese, a good aged, sharp cheddar is the perfect choice. The sharpness of the cheddar cuts through the richness of the beef and adds a nice tanginess to the sandwich. The cheese can be melted into a gooey, warm sauce, drizzled over the beef, or simply placed on the bun and allowed to melt slightly from the warmth of the beef.

When assembling the sandwich, it is recommended to place the lettuce and cheese on the bottom bun first, followed by the sauce, beef, and any other toppings. This order will help prevent the bun from becoming soggy from the sauce.

For an extra indulgent treat, try using a pretzel bun or a toasted ciabatta roll, which will add a nice salty contrast to the other flavours.

So, the next time you're craving a hearty sandwich, go for the roast beef and horseradish cheddar combination. It's a delicious, satisfying option that's sure to hit the spot!

Condiments to enhance deli ham and cheese pairings

When creating the perfect ham and cheese sandwich, the right combination of flavours and textures is key. While the choice of meat and cheese is important, condiments can also play a crucial role in elevating your sandwich. Here are some ideas to enhance your deli ham and cheese pairings:

• Mustard is a classic condiment that pairs well with both ham and cheese. It adds a tangy, sharp flavour that can complement the saltiness of the ham.
• Honey can be a great way to balance out the saltiness of the ham and the sharpness of the cheese. A drizzle of honey on your sandwich can add a touch of sweetness.
• Fig jam or fruit chutney can also be a delicious addition to your sandwich. The sweetness of the jam will contrast nicely with the savoury flavours of the meat and cheese.
• Mayonnaise is a versatile condiment that can be used as a base for your sandwich. It provides a creamy texture and a mild flavour that won't overpower the other ingredients. You can even make it more interesting by adding crushed Calabrian chilli peppers and honey to make a spicy aioli.
• Hot pepper jelly or spicy pepper jam can add a nice kick to your sandwich. The combination of sweet and spicy flavours will elevate your ham and cheese experience.
• Olive oil can be drizzled over your sandwich to add a touch of richness and moisture. It also helps to balance out the other strong flavours in the sandwich.
• Salt and pepper are simple yet essential condiments. Seasoning your sandwich with salt and pepper will enhance the flavours of the ham, cheese, and any other vegetables you include.
• Pickles are a great addition to a ham and cheese sandwich as the vinegar cuts through the fattiness of the ham. Dill pickle chips add a crunchy texture and a tangy flavour.

Frequently asked questions