The Perfect Pairings For Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be paired with various foods to create delicious flavour combinations. When it comes to cheese, there are no set rules, and personal preference plays a significant role in determining the best pairings. However, understanding the heritage, flavour profile, bridging flavours, and texture of cheddar cheese can help you make informed choices about what to pair it with.

Cheddar cheese and Gruyere

A unique fusion of the two cheeses, when combined, creates a semi-hard cheese that is creamy and aged to perfection. This blend is produced in small batches and has sweet and nutty notes. It is perfect melted on a panini or flatbread. It can also be added to a charcuterie board or used in a grilled cheese breakfast sandwich.

The blend of Cheddar and Gruyere is a great option for those who want to improve the meltability of their cheese. The fusion of the two cheeses creates a product that is greater than the sum of its parts.

To elevate your meal, pair this cheese combination with a cool Chardonnay or Wheat beer.

Cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack

The sharpness of Cheddar is counterbalanced by the mild nature of Monterey Jack. This combination makes for great cooking and they melt wonderfully together. For example, they are often paired together in recipes for macaroni and cheese.

Monterey Jack is the base cheese for all other "Jack" cheeses, including Colby Jack and Cheddar Jack. It originated in the 1700s with Spanish missionaries in present-day San Diego, who relied heavily on their cattle and turned the milk into a soft cheese called "Queso blanco pais". In the late 1800s, a businessman in central California, David Jack, is said to have been the first person to sell this cheese, popularising it as "Jack's Cheese". The name eventually evolved to be Monterey Jack.

Monterey Jack is a great baseline cheese because it's mild in flavour, so by mixing it with sharper cheeses, it makes for a more exciting product.

Cheddar cheese and Parmesan

When it comes to combining these two cheeses, it's important to consider the role each cheese will play in the dish. Cheddar is often used as the base flavour, providing a sharp, tangy taste. Parmesan, on the other hand, adds a subtle nutty flavour and a tangy kick to the dish. The blend of these two cheeses can create a smooth, creamy texture that works well in grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and on cheeseboards.

One popular recipe that combines these two cheeses is the grilled cheese sandwich from the movie "Chef", which uses white cheddar, yellow cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan. In this sandwich, the cheddar provides the base flavour, the Gruyere adds stretch and creaminess, and the Parmesan brings tanginess.

When pairing cheddar and Parmesan with other foods, consider the following:

• Texture: Contrast is key. Pair hard cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan with spreadable foods like jam, or crunchy nuts and crackers.
• Flavour: Look for complementary or contrasting flavours. Sweet and salty, or sweet and spicy combinations work well.
• Geographical Region: "What grows together, goes together." Pair cheeses with foods from the same region. For example, an English cheddar might pair well with other English classics.
• Beverages: Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses can be paired with fruity white or red wines, or ales to enhance their complex flavours.

Cheddar cheese and Smoked Gouda

When making macaroni and cheese, you can combine smoked gouda with extra sharp white cheddar cheese to balance the strong flavour of the former. This combination results in a rich, creamy, nutty, and bold dish that is perfect as a side for get-togethers and special occasions. You can also sprinkle crumbled bacon on top to take it to the next level!

In addition to macaroni and cheese, smoked gouda is a versatile cheese used in various dishes, including charcuterie boards, sandwiches, and fondue. It has a pungent aroma and a creamy, nutty, and full-bodied taste, making it a popular choice for many.

When pairing cheeses, it is important to consider the flavour profiles, textures, and origins of the cheeses. Complementary and contrasting flavours, such as sweet and salty or sweet and spicy, can enhance the taste experience. Additionally, pairing cheeses from the same geographical region can often result in wonderful combinations.

Cheddar cheese and Salami

Bread

The type of bread you use can make a big difference in the overall taste and texture of your sandwich. Ciabatta is a popular choice, as it crisps up nicely and gives a beautiful texture to the sandwich. Sourdough, brioche buns, sub buns, Kaiser rolls, and French bread are also great options. Toasting the bread can add a nice contrast to the soft fillings. You can toast it in an oven, grill, or a pan, depending on your preference and the number of sandwiches you're making.

Cheese

While cheddar cheese is a great choice, you can also experiment with other cheeses to add variety. Some popular alternatives to pair with salami are provolone, gouda, mozzarella, Swiss cheese, and pepper jack. These cheeses offer different levels of sharpness, creaminess, and texture that can enhance your sandwich.

Condiments and Seasonings

The right condiments and seasonings can elevate your sandwich and bring all the flavours together. Here are some options to consider:

• Mustard: Yellow mustard, dijon mustard, or honey mustard can add a nice tang to your sandwich.
• Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise, or "mayo," can add moisture to your sandwich and help prevent dryness.
• Pesto: Basil pesto mixed with mayonnaise creates a delicious spread that adds flavour to your sandwich.
• Oil and Vinegar: A simple mix of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper can be used to dress your rocket/arugula, adding a touch of moisture to the sandwich.
• Spices: Seasonings like salt, pepper, and oregano can enhance the flavour of your sandwich.

Additional Ingredients

• Tomatoes: Adding sliced tomatoes can provide a nice contrast in texture and flavour. However, be mindful that salt can draw out the water from tomatoes, so it's best to season them just before serving to avoid making your sandwich soggy.
• Pickles: Pickles, especially dill pickles, can add a crunchy and tangy element to your sandwich.
• Onions: Red onions, in particular, can provide a nice crunch and a mild spicy kick.
• Peppers: Banana peppers, pepperoncinis, or pickled cherry peppers can add a nice kick to your sandwich.
• Lettuce or Greens: Romaine lettuce or arugula/rocket can provide a refreshing crunch and texture to your sandwich.
• Olives: Black olives or olive tapenade can be a tasty addition to your sandwich.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Consider serving your sandwich with sides like marinated olives, garlic parmesan fries, or a salad.
• Presentation: If you're making multiple sandwiches, you can cut them into smaller portions or triangles to make cute and bite-sized servings.
• Toasting Bread: If you're making a single sandwich or a small batch, toasting the bread in a pan can be a good option. It gives the bread a crispy exterior while keeping the centre slightly soft.
• Layering: Instead of stacking your ingredients, try layering them to create a textural contrast. For example, you can place a thin layer of salami and cheese on the outer parts of the sandwich, with the greens and other fillings in the centre.
• Freshness: If you're making sandwiches ahead of time, consider assembling them just before serving to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can pack the ingredients separately and assemble them at lunchtime.

By combining these elements, you can create a delicious and satisfying cheddar cheese and salami sandwich. Experiment with different ingredients and find the combinations that you enjoy the most!

Frequently asked questions