Hot Ham And Cheese: The Perfect Pairing Ideas

Hot ham and cheese sandwiches are a popular dish, and there are many ways to make them your own. The classic combination of ham and Swiss cheese is a favourite, but you can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella. Toasting the buns is another way to add a personal touch, and you can even add a creamy dijonnaise sauce for some extra flavour. If you're feeling creative, try adding extra toppings like spinach, arugula, tomatoes, or roasted peppers. Whether you're making them for a party or a cosy night in, hot ham and cheese sandwiches are a delicious and comforting choice.

Buns, rolls and bread

The bread you use for your hot ham and cheese sandwich can make all the difference. While a classic choice is a soft roll, such as a brioche bun, kaiser roll, pretzel roll, or Hawaiian roll, you can also opt for a heartier option like whole grain bread. If you're feeling creative, try a jalapeno cheddar bagel or a sweet Hawaiian roll for a unique twist on this classic sandwich.

Toasting the buns is entirely optional, but it can add a nice crunchy texture to your sandwich. Simply butter the buns and toast them under the broiler for about 2 minutes before assembling the sandwiches. If you prefer a softer bun, skip the toasting step and go straight to layering your ingredients.

When assembling your sandwich, be generous with your fillings. Layer a few slices of ham, followed by a slice of cheese, and repeat the layers for a hearty sandwich. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Swiss, cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack, to find your perfect pairing.

For an extra special touch, try making a creamy sauce to spread on your bread. Mix mayonnaise, dijon mustard, and other flavourful ingredients like garlic or Worcestershire sauce. Spread this mixture on the insides of your buns before adding your ham and cheese.

Finally, consider wrapping your sandwiches in foil before baking. This helps keep the heat in, ensuring that the cheese melts perfectly and the buns toast evenly.

With so many options to choose from, you can make your hot ham and cheese sandwich your own unique creation, tailored to your taste preferences.

Condiments

The right condiments can take your hot ham and cheese sandwich to the next level. Here are some ideas to elevate your sandwich-making experience:

Mayonnaise and Mustard:

The classic combination of mayonnaise and mustard is a popular choice for hot ham and cheese sandwiches. You can spread it on the bread or mix it with other ingredients to make a creamy sauce. Some recipes suggest using whole grain mustard or Dijon mustard for an extra kick of flavour.

Dijonnaise Sauce:

For a tangy twist, you can make a dijonnaise sauce by mixing mayonnaise with spicy or Dijon mustard. This sauce adds a creamy texture and a subtle kick of spice to your sandwich.

Ranch Dressing:

Ranch dressing can be a delicious addition to your hot ham and cheese. You can even try a jalapeno ranch dressing for a spicier kick.

Butter:

Butter is a key ingredient in toasting the buns to perfection. You can spread butter on the buns and toast them under the broiler for a couple of minutes before assembling the sandwiches. For an extra flavour boost, you can make a butter mixture by melting butter and adding ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, or sesame seeds.

Onions:

Caramelised onions can be a tasty topping for your sandwich. You can also incorporate onions by mixing them with butter to create a savoury spread for your buns.

Other Toppings:

Feel free to experiment with toppings such as lettuce, banana peppers, red onions, or even a spoonful of salsa. You can also add vegetables like spinach, arugula, tomatoes, roasted peppers, chopped olives, or artichokes.

Types of ham

Ham is a versatile meat that can be prepared in many ways, and there are several types of ham available to consumers. Here is a detailed guide to the different types of ham:

Fully-Cooked Hams:

Also known as "city hams," these hams are the most popular and readily available type. They are either wet-cured in a solution of salt, sugar, and spices, or dry-cured with a salt rub. Most fully-cooked hams are also smoked, and they can be purchased bone-in or boneless. Spiral-cut ham is a convenient option within this category, as it is pre-cut and easy to serve.

Fresh Hams:

Fresh ham, also known as "green ham" or "fresh leg of pork," is uncured raw pork. It can be cured at home or simply seasoned and roasted. Fresh ham tastes similar to a pork roast and lacks the smoky flavour found in other hams.

Country Hams:

Country hams, also called Virginia, Tennessee, or Kentucky hams, are dry-cured, smoked, and aged. This aging process can range from a few months to over a year, resulting in a drier and saltier ham. Preparing country ham requires soaking and simmering before baking, and it is known for its intense salty flavour.

Bone-in vs Boneless Hams:

Bone-in hams are generally considered more flavourful and juicy, but they can be more challenging to carve. Boneless hams, on the other hand, are easier to cook and serve.

Wet-Cured vs Dry-Cured Hams:

Wet-cured hams are soaked in a brine solution containing salt, sugar, and spices, while dry-cured hams are rubbed with a mixture of salt, sugar, and seasonings on the surface. Dry-cured hams tend to have a firmer texture and a more intense flavour.

Honey-Cured Hams:

Honey-cured hams are wet-cured using honey or maple syrup as at least half of the sweetener in the curing mixture. They have a sweet-savoury flavour and are often pre-cooked, requiring only reheating.

Black Forest Hams:

Originating from Germany's Black Forest region, these hams are cured with salt, juniper berries, coriander, and pepper. They are cold-smoked over pine or fir wood, giving them a distinct smoky flavour and black exterior.

Prosciutto:

Prosciutto is an Italian dry-cured ham made from the hind legs of pigs. It is salted and air-dried for 9 to 18 months, resulting in a sweet and salty flavour with fruity or earthy notes. Prosciutto is typically served as an appetizer or antipasto, paired with cheese, olives, and bread.

Pancetta:

Pancetta is an Italian variety of bacon made from pork belly. It is cured with salt, black pepper, nutmeg, fennel, and garlic, and it has a distinct savoury and slightly sweet flavour. Pancetta is a versatile ingredient used in pasta sauces, risotto, salads, and sandwiches.

Capicola:

Capicola, also known as coppa or capocollo, is a traditional Italian cured meat made from the neck fillet of the pig. It is dry-cured and aged, resulting in a rich flavour profile that combines sweetness, saltiness, and spiciness. Capicola is commonly served thinly sliced on charcuterie boards, sandwiches, or antipasto platters.

Canadian Bacon:

Canadian bacon, or back bacon, is a cured pork product made from pork loin rather than belly. It is leaner and milder in flavour than traditional bacon and is commonly used in sandwiches, salads, and breakfast dishes.

Jamon Iberico:

Jamon Iberico, or Iberian ham, is a luxurious and highly prized Spanish and Portuguese ham. It undergoes a meticulous curing process that can take up to four years, resulting in exceptional flavour, texture, and complexity.

Serrano Ham:

Serrano ham, or jamon serrano, is a Spanish dry-cured ham made from the hind leg meat of white pigs. It is renowned for its rich flavour and delicate texture and is a popular choice for tapas, charcuterie boards, and gourmet dishes.

Smithfield Ham:

Smithfield ham, originating from Smithfield, Virginia, is dry-cured with salt and sodium nitrate and spiced with black pepper. It undergoes a long curing process, resulting in a robust and savoury flavour. Smithfield ham is a staple in Southern cuisine and is often served thinly sliced or added to traditional Southern dishes.

Types of cheese

When it comes to cheese, there are several options that pair well with hot ham in a sandwich. Here are some of the most popular choices:

Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is a classic choice for ham sandwiches. It has a mild, nutty flavour and melts beautifully, making it ideal for hot sandwiches. Swiss cheese is a popular option for those seeking a traditional, familiar taste.

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is another excellent choice to pair with ham. It has a sharper, more pronounced flavour than Swiss cheese and is widely available. However, it doesn't melt as smoothly as Swiss cheese, so it may not be the best option for a grilled sandwich.

Smoked Gouda

For a more sophisticated sandwich, smoked gouda is a fantastic option. It has a rich, smoky flavour that complements the ham perfectly. Smoked gouda adds a touch of elegance to your sandwich, making it ideal for more mature palates.

Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella is a mild and creamy cheese that melts exceptionally well. It is a popular choice for hot ham sandwiches as it adds a delightful gooey texture. Mozzarella is a versatile cheese that blends seamlessly with other ingredients.

Monterey Jack Cheese

Monterey Jack, also known as Colby Jack, is a semi-hard cheese with a mild flavour. It melts well and is often used in sandwiches. Monterey Jack can also be found in various flavours, such as pepper Jack, which adds a spicy kick to your sandwich.

American Cheese

American cheese, also known as yellow and white American, is a popular choice for hot ham sandwiches. It melts easily and has a creamy texture, making it a favourite among those who prefer a classic, comforting taste.

When selecting a cheese for your hot ham sandwich, consider your personal preference for flavour and texture. Whether you opt for a classic like Swiss or cheddar, or venture towards something more distinct like smoked gouda, the right cheese can elevate your sandwich into a delightful culinary experience.

Cooking methods

Hot ham and cheese sandwiches are a versatile dish that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Here are some cooking methods to consider:

Oven-Baked Sandwiches

Baking is a popular method for preparing hot ham and cheese sandwiches, especially when serving a crowd. Preheat your oven to 325-375°F. Start by spreading a mixture of butter, mayonnaise, garlic salt, and Dijon mustard on the insides of your preferred buns or rolls, such as hamburger buns, Hawaiian rolls, or kaiser rolls. Layer the ham and cheese (Swiss or mozzarella are popular choices) on the bottom half of the buns, adding condiments and toppings like ranch, lettuce, or caramelized onions if desired. Wrap each sandwich in foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 12-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are toasted.

Grilled Sandwiches

For a grilled option, prepare the sandwiches as mentioned above, wrapping them in foil. Place the wrapped sandwiches on a preheated grill over medium heat, or on the side without direct flames if using charcoal. Grill for about 3 minutes per side or until the cheese is melted. This method is perfect for camping or outdoor gatherings.

Skillet Sandwiches

For a quick and easy stovetop option, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Spread butter on one side of slices of whole grain bread. Place one slice butter-side down in the hot skillet. Layer Swiss cheese, deli ham, and your choice of toppings on the bread. Spread mayonnaise and whole-grain mustard on the unbuttered side of the second slice of bread, and place it butter-side up on the sandwich. Cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Slow Cooker or Crockpot Method

When serving hot ham and cheese sandwiches at a party, it's essential to keep them warm and accessible. After baking or grilling the sandwiches, wrap them individually in foil and place them in a slow cooker or crockpot set to the lowest temperature setting. This will keep them warm and ready to serve throughout the event.

Frequently asked questions