Andy Montoya
Swiss cheese is a versatile ingredient with a mild, nutty and sweet flavour. It's perfect for sandwiches, dips and fondue, and its melting properties make it a popular choice for dishes like French onion soup, quiche, casseroles, and of course, the classic Reuben sandwich. Swiss cheese is also used in more inventive recipes, such as ham and Swiss stromboli, and Swiss and mushroom pull-apart bread. Its creamy texture and mild taste make it a favourite for kids and adults alike.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sandwiches | Reuben, Ham and Swiss, Patty Melts, Bratwurst, Ham and Swiss Stromboli |
| Dips | Fondue, Hot Reuben Dip, Appetizer Dip |
| Soups | French Onion Soup |
| Casseroles | Pasta, Amish Breakfast, Polish Pasta, Linguine |
| Other | Pizza, Pull-Apart Bread, Mac and Cheese |
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What You'll Learn
Swiss cheese and fondue
Swiss cheese is a popular ingredient in fondue, a Swiss dish of melted cheese and wine served in a communal pot. The word "fondue" is derived from the French verb "fondre", which means "to melt". Fondue is typically served in a caquelon or fondue pot over a portable stove heated by a candle or spirit lamp. It is eaten by dipping bread, vegetables, or other foods into the cheese using long-stemmed forks.
Swiss cheese fondue is said to have originated on Alpine farms as a way to feed families inexpensively. The original version was simply stale bread dipped in melted Gruyère. Swiss fondue gained popularity and was named the national dish of Switzerland in the 1930s. It became a symbol of Swiss unity and is often associated with mountains and winter sports.
A classic Swiss cheese fondue recipe includes a combination of grated Gruyere and Emmentaler with wine, cornstarch, and lemon juice. These ingredients are cooked over moderate heat and stirred until the cheeses melt, creating a creamy and buttery fondue. Other cheeses that can be used include Gouda, Fontina, and Raclette, depending on regional preferences and availability.
Fondue is a versatile dish that can be customised with various accompaniments for dipping. Popular choices include cubed bread, cooked potatoes, sliced apples, pears, cornichons, pickled onions, salami, and various vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and cauliflower. It is a social and interactive dish, with traditions and penalties associated with losing a piece of food in the pot, such as buying a round of drinks or cleaning up after the meal.
Swiss cheese is an excellent choice for fondue due to its mild, nutty, and sweet flavour, as well as its ability to melt beautifully. It adds a rich and creamy texture to the fondue, making it a decadent and indulgent treat, perfect for cold winter nights or as an appetizer for dinner parties.
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French onion soup
The traditional cheese used in French onion soup is Gruyère, a hard Swiss cheese with a nutty and earthy flavour. However, Swiss cheese is also a popular choice and can be used as a substitute for Gruyère or in combination with other cheeses. In fact, French onion soup is often topped with multiple cheeses to create a rich and decadent dish. Some popular choices to pair with Swiss cheese include provolone, fontina, mozzarella, parmesan, and Monterey Jack.
When preparing the soup, it is important to slice the onions carefully. They should be sliced in half lengthwise and then into half-moons that are about 1/4-inch thick. The onions are then caramelized by sautéing them over medium-high heat until they are a deep brown colour, which should take about an hour. After deglazing the pan with sherry or red wine, the remaining ingredients are added, and the soup is simmered until slightly reduced.
To serve, the soup is ladled into oven-safe bowls and topped with slices of bread and cheese. The bowls are placed in the oven and broiled until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. French onion soup is best served hot and fresh, with the cheese still bubbling.
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Sandwiches
Swiss cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sandwiches. Its mild flavour and excellent melting properties make it a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. For a simple yet delicious sandwich, layer Swiss cheese slices between two slices of buttered bread and grill until toasted and the cheese is melted. For added flavour, try using rye bread instead of white bread.
The classic Reuben sandwich is another popular choice for Swiss cheese. This sandwich typically features corned beef or pastrami, sauerkraut, Russian dressing, and Swiss cheese on rye bread. For a twist on the classic, you can substitute sliced turkey and coleslaw for the corned beef and sauerkraut.
If you're looking for a heartier option, Swiss cheese pairs well with ham and other cured meats. Try a ham and Swiss stromboli, which is a savoury roll loaded with Swiss cheese, ham, bacon, and green onions. Or, for a more sophisticated take on a classic, try a ham and Swiss cheese pizza with a zippy honey Dijon sauce.
Swiss cheese can also be used as a topping for open-faced sandwiches or bruschetta. Try topping toasted French bread with sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, and melted Swiss cheese for a tasty take on the classic caprese sandwich.
Finally, for a quick and easy snack, Swiss cheese can be used to make grilled cheese roll-ups. Simply spread softened butter on a flour tortilla, layer with Swiss cheese slices, and roll up tightly. Grill the roll-ups until the tortilla is toasted and the cheese is melted. Cut into slices and serve warm.
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Pasta
Swiss cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of pasta dishes. Its mild flavour and nutty taste make it a perfect addition to creamy sauces, enhancing the overall flavour of the dish. Here are some ideas for using Swiss cheese in pasta recipes:
Swiss Macaroni and Cheese
A classic Swiss-style macaroni and cheese is a delicious and comforting dish. To make this, start by boiling the pasta according to the package instructions. Meanwhile, create a roux by melting butter in a saucepan and stirring in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk and bring it to a boil, stirring constantly. Add the grated Swiss cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and combined. Drain the cooked pasta and mix it with the cheese sauce. You can also add extras like chicken or vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Finally, bake the pasta in a preheated oven until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Swiss Cheese Noodle Bake
Another option is to make a Swiss cheese noodle bake, which can be a fun twist on traditional mac and cheese. For this recipe, you can use broad egg noodles or your preferred type of pasta. Start by cooking ground beef or sausage in a skillet until well browned. Drain the fat and stir in your favourite pasta sauce. In a separate pot, boil the noodles until they are cooked but still firm. Drain the noodles and layer them in a baking dish with the meat sauce and slices or shredded Swiss cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up. Bake the dish in the oven until the cheese is melted and browned, creating a delicious and hearty meal.
Swiss Style Pasta with Bacon
For a Swiss-style pasta with bacon, cook your chosen type of pasta according to the package instructions. Meanwhile, prepare a creamy cheese sauce by melting butter, stirring in flour, and gradually adding milk. You can also add some fresh dill to the sauce for extra flavour. Drain the cooked pasta and mix it with the cheese sauce. Chop up some bacon and mix it into the pasta, or use it as a topping. You can also sprinkle extra grated cheese on top. This dish offers a rich and creamy taste experience, with the saltiness of bacon complementing the Swiss cheese beautifully.
When using Swiss cheese in pasta dishes, it is important to melt the cheese at a medium temperature and stir constantly to avoid a grainy texture. Swiss cheese melts beautifully and adds a rich flavour to the dish. It is also versatile and pairs well with various ingredients, making it an excellent choice for creating delicious and satisfying pasta meals.
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Dips
Swiss cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dips. Here are some ideas for Swiss cheese dips that are perfect for any occasion, from holiday parties to game days:
Baked Swiss Cheese Dip
This dip is a crowd favourite and is perfect for any gathering. It is easy to prepare with just a few simple ingredients: Swiss cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped onions. To make this dip, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine room-temperature cream cheese, shredded Swiss cheese, mayo, and chopped onion. Use an electric mixer to blend the ingredients until smooth. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle sliced almonds on top. Bake for 24 to 27 minutes, or until the almonds are golden and the edges are bubbly. Serve this dip with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Hot Swiss Cheese Dip
This dip is perfect for a cozy night in or as an appetizer for a dinner party. It is similar to Swiss fondue but is prepared differently. To make this dip, combine shredded Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and a touch of mustard in a cast-iron skillet. Place the skillet over low heat and slowly melt the cheese, stirring occasionally, until smooth. You can also add a splash of sparkling wine to the mixture for a more complex flavour. Serve this dip with bread cubes, crackers, or vegetables for dipping.
Swiss Cheese and Onion Dip
This dip is a twist on the classic French onion dip and is perfect for game days or holiday gatherings. It is simple to make with just three ingredients: Swiss cheese, mayonnaise, and scallions (green onion tops). Simply mix the ingredients together and chill in the fridge until ready to serve. This dip can be served with chips, crackers, or crusty bread.
Swiss Almond Dip
This dip is a delicious and comforting blend of Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and salad dressing. It is perfect for colder months and can be served alongside hot breads, crackers, or cut-up vegetables. To make this dip, simply combine the ingredients and bake in the oven until browned, gooey, and creamy.
Swiss cheese dips are a great way to add a unique and addictive flavour to your next gathering or holiday party. They are easy to prepare and can be served with a variety of dippers, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.
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Frequently asked questions
Swiss cheese is a versatile ingredient with a nutty, bittersweet flavour. It is often used in sandwiches, omelettes, burgers, casseroles, quiches, and as a topping for soups and pasta.
Swiss cheese is a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. It is often paired with ham, turkey, or mushrooms. For a classic combination, try a ham and Swiss cheese sandwich with au jus, or cooking juices, for dipping.
You can incorporate Swiss cheese into breakfast by making a mushroom and Swiss cheese omelette. Alternatively, you can add it to French onion soup, which is commonly served with toasted bread topped with melted Swiss cheese.
Swiss cheese is commonly used in Chicken Cordon Bleu, a dish that combines chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese. You can also use Swiss cheese in casseroles, quiches, or as a topping for pasta. For a lighter option, add grated Swiss cheese to a salad.
Swiss cheese can be used as an ingredient in fondue. Simply melt Swiss cheese with white wine and seasoning, and serve with bread cubes, vegetables, and cured meats for dipping. Swiss cheese is also a great addition to a cheeseboard, pairing well with crackers, grapes, and relishes.
