Randy Chandler
Cheese is a beloved and versatile ingredient used in cooking around the world. It is made from coagulating the milk protein casein, which comes from cows, goats, sheep, or buffalo. There are over a thousand types of cheese, each with a unique flavor, texture, and aroma. When used in cooking, cheese can highlight flavors and create unusual and tasty dishes. For example, cheese can be used in salads, sandwiches, and baked dishes. Different types of cheese react differently when cooked, offering a wide variety of textures and flavors.
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Cheese in salads
Cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads. Adding cheese to a salad can enhance its flavour, texture, and richness. The type of cheese used in a salad can vary depending on personal preference and the desired taste profile. Here are some specific examples of how cheese can be incorporated into salads:
Goat Cheese
Goat cheese, also known as Chevre, is a popular choice for salads due to its tangy and creamy characteristics. It pairs well with roasted beets, vinaigrettes, fruits such as berries or blueberries, and nuts like candied nuts, walnuts, or pecans. Goat cheese can also be used in roasted salads, where it softens and acts as a second dressing.
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese is a strong and creamy option that adds a punch of flavour to green salads. It goes well with sweet and toasty elements, such as sliced pears, apples, or candied nuts. Blue cheese is also commonly used in steakhouse wedge salads or classic Cobb salads, as it pairs nicely with bacon.
Feta Cheese
Feta, a tangy and salty cheese made primarily from sheep's milk in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, is another popular choice for salads. It can be crumbled over a variety of salad ingredients, adding a distinct flavour and texture. Feta is versatile and complements most salad toppings, making it a favourite for many.
Cheddar Cheese
While cheddar cheese may not be the first choice for a salad ingredient, it is commonly used in the Midwest. Sharp cheddar can be crumbled or cut into cubes and added to salads, providing a unique texture and flavour. It can also be paired with fruits like apples or pears.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan, or Parm, is a nutty and grainy cheese that can elevate a simple salad. Shaving or grating Parmesan over greens adds a generous amount without overwhelming the dish. It pairs well with grilled asparagus, anchovy-laced Dijon vinaigrette, and other bright, funky flavours.
Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella, specifically buffalo mozzarella, adds a creamy texture and a luxe backdrop to salads. It complements both delicate and bold ingredients. For example, it can be paired with nectarines, heirloom tomatoes, onions, and mint for a summery nectarine caprese. Alternatively, it can be used in a sun-dried tomato pasta salad, where it balances exuberant ingredients like pine nuts, capers, and basil.
These are just a few examples of how cheese can be used in salads. The possibilities are endless, and experimenting with different cheeses and combinations can lead to delicious and unique creations.
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Melting cheese
When selecting a cheese for melting, it is important to choose a variety that melts well. Harder cheeses, such as Cheddar, Gruyere, Gouda, Munster, and Swiss cheese, are ideal for melting due to their lower melting point. These cheeses are commonly used in sauces, grilled cheese sandwiches, and as a base for soups. Reduced-fat cheeses can also be used, but they may take longer to melt and require more effort during stirring.
On the other hand, it is best to avoid using extremely soft cheeses like feta and ricotta, as they will not melt properly. Dry, crumbly cheeses like goat cheese and aged hard cheeses like Parmesan and Pecorino should also be avoided for melting as they do not create a smooth, dip-like consistency and can burn easily.
To melt cheese, it is recommended to start by grating, shredding, or slicing it into smaller pieces. This increases the surface area and promotes even melting. The cheese can then be placed in a microwave-safe bowl or cooked over the stove. When using a microwave, add a small amount of cornstarch and evaporated milk to prevent the cheese from becoming lumpy. An acidic ingredient like vinegar, white wine, or beer can also be added to enhance the flavour and promote smoothness. Microwave the cheese in short intervals, stirring in between, until it is completely melted.
When melting cheese on the stove, it is crucial to use low to medium heat to prevent burning. Continuously stir the cheese to ensure even melting and to prevent sticking or burning. For dishes like nachos and casseroles, shredded cheese can be sprinkled on top and baked in the oven until bubbly and melted.
Melted cheese can be used in a variety of recipes, such as grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas, macaroni and cheese, and cauliflower cheese. It can also be used as a delicious sauce or dip, such as a cheddar cheese sauce or a fondue. By mastering the art of melting cheese, you can elevate your cooking and create indulgent, flavourful dishes.
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Cheese in baking
Cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including baked goods. When used in baking, cheese adds flavour, texture, and complexity to the final product.
Chefs and manufacturers must consider the melting capabilities of different cheese varieties when incorporating them into baked goods. Cheeses with high moisture content, such as Havarti, mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella, melt well and contribute to the overall consistency of the baked good. Harder cheeses like Asiago or Parmesan tend to retain their structure and can be manipulated more easily. They can be grated and mixed into the dough or sprinkled on top to add layers of aged flavour. Swiss-style cheeses are very mild and tend to absorb the flavours in the recipe.
Soft cheeses like goat cheese, Brie, and gorgonzola should be incorporated early in the baking process as they may contribute to the overall consistency of the baked good. Hard cheeses, on the other hand, can be added at any stage of the baking process as they generally hold their structure and offer a ton of flavour. Mascarpone, for example, can be mixed into muffins to make them moister and richer. Blending different cheeses can also create a more complex taste, potentially resulting in a sweet and savoury effect.
Cheese can be used in a variety of baked dishes, both savoury and sweet. Savoury dishes include the classic mac and cheese, lasagna, eggplant Parmesan, and cauliflower cheese. Cheese is also commonly used in sandwiches, such as the French Croque monsieur, and grilled cheese sandwiches. Cheese can be incorporated into bread dough, as seen in sourdough loaves or garlic knots, to add flavour and texture. It can also be used as a topping, as seen in the popular Calhoun's Spinach Maria, which features spinach, Monterey Jack cheese, and crushed red pepper served with pita, crackers, flatbreads, and crudités.
Cheese is also making an appearance in sweet bakery items, such as pastries, Danish, and coffee cake. Ricotta, for example, is used in sweet baked goods.
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Cheese in soups
Cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups. When used in cooking, cheese adds flavour and texture to the dish. Different types of cheese react differently when cooked, resulting in a wide variety of textures and flavours.
Cheese soups are considered comfort food by many. For instance, the sharp flavour of cheddar combines well with creamy broth and potatoes, and caramelized onions pair well with salty Gruyere. Broccoli cheddar and beer cheese are some classic combinations used in cheese soups.
Some popular cheese soup recipes include Chicken Burrito soup, Spinach Quiche soup, Cheesesteak soup, Chicken Cordon Bleu soup, Lasagna soup, and Reuben soup. These soups use a variety of cheeses, such as shredded cheddar, Swiss cheese, Gruyère, and cream cheese.
When making a cheese soup, it is important to consider the proper reheating temperature and the optimal cheeses for blending or garnishing. For example, in her cookbook "SOUPified: Soups Inspired by Your Favorite Dishes", Michele Di Pietro, an expert in determining the best cheese for soups, includes recipes that use cheese as a garnish, such as shredded cheddar in her Chicken Burrito soup, or as a cooked ingredient, like Swiss cheese in her Spinach Quiche soup.
Cheese can also be used as a topping for soups. For example, Grana Padano can be grated and baked in the oven for a few minutes to create a crunchy "tuile" that can be used as a topping for soups to add texture.
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Cheese in sandwiches
Cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including sandwiches. A cheese sandwich is a classic and simple dish that can be made in a variety of ways. The type of cheese, bread, and additional ingredients can be customized to create different flavours and textures.
When making a grilled cheese sandwich, it is recommended to use a firmer loaf of bread rather than soft white sandwich bread to prevent the sandwich from becoming too squished. Butter the outside of the bread and frying it in a pan or sandwich press creates a crispy, golden exterior. Grilled cheese sandwiches can also be made in a sandwich toaster for a hands-free option.
The choice of cheese is important to achieve the desired flavour and texture. Mild cheeses such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Muenster have excellent melting properties, creating a creamy texture. For a nuttier flavour, Swiss or Gruyere can be used, while Provolone adds sharpness. Cheddar offers a balance of melting qualities and assertive flavour. To prevent the cheese from spilling out, it can be shaved with a vegetable peeler to create a layered texture.
In addition to the basic combination of bread and cheese, various ingredients can be added to enhance the flavour of a cheese sandwich. Herbs, spices, and aromatics can be added to create different flavour profiles. Vegetables, cooked meat, fried eggs, scrambled eggs, and mayonnaise are also popular additions. Crisps are another common ingredient, with salt and vinegar crisps being a favourite.
Cheese sandwiches are a versatile and comforting dish that can be tailored to individual preferences. They are a simple and quick meal that can be made at home, allowing for creativity and customization.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheese is a versatile ingredient used in cooking to highlight flavours and create unusual and tasty dishes.
Cheese can be used in salads, sandwiches, skewers, tartar, bruschetta, and baked dishes. It can also be incorporated into cream or mousse recipes.
A mousse de brie with cream, avocado and nutmeg. Another recipe idea is ice cream with fresh goat cheese.
Different types of cheese react differently when cooked in the oven, offering a variety of textures and flavours. For example, a very hard cheese like Grana Padano will turn into a tile or "tuile" when grated and baked at 180 degrees for 5 minutes. On the other hand, a hard but mild cheese like Edam or Cheddar will give you a melting texture, perfect for macaroni or cauliflower cheese.
Fresh cheeses include ricotta, cottage cheese, cream cheese, mascarpone, and feta. They are often used in spreads, dips, and salads. For example, ricotta is excellent in lasagna, stuffed shells, and desserts like cannoli. Feta is perfect for Greek salads, sandwiches, and baked dishes.
