Bushra Griffith
The pairing of cheese and crackers is a popular snack, hors d'oeuvre, or dessert that has been consumed by sailors, soldiers, and pioneers since before the existence of refrigeration. In the United States, the term cheese and crackers was used as a slang expression in the 1920s, and it continues to be a common expression today. While there is no specific name for the act of putting cheese on crackers, the combination of these two ingredients has been given the name cheese and crackers or cheese and biscuits in the UK.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Cheese and crackers or cheese and biscuits (in the UK) |
| History | Fare of sailors, soldiers, and pioneers; became popular in the 1850s in American restaurants and bars |
| Variations | Many types of cheeses and crackers can be used; can be served with wine, fruit, preserves, pickles, stuffed olives, or preserved meats |
| Commercial Options | Ritz, Jatz, Lunchables, and Lunchly |
| Cultural Significance | Served as a dessert in the United States, especially during the Great Depression; recommended as a snack for children in the 1950s |
| Preparation | Crackers can be homemade or store-bought; various shapes, sizes, and flavors can be used |
| Serving Suggestions | Arrange crackers with cheese on a board or plate; include other items like charcuterie, nuts, fruits, or dips |
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What You'll Learn
- Cheese and crackers, also known as cheese and biscuits, is a common snack food or appetiser
- Crackers are the base of any cheese board, adding texture and flavour to the charcuterie experience
- There are many types of crackers, from plain to gluten-free, and they can be paired with a variety of cheeses
- Cheese and crackers was historically consumed by sailors, soldiers, and pioneers before becoming popular in restaurants and bars in the 1850s
- You can make your own cheese crackers at home with just a few simple ingredients
Cheese and crackers, also known as cheese and biscuits, is a common snack food or appetiser
Cheese and crackers, also known as cheese and biscuits in the UK, is a common snack food or appetiser. The practice of eating cheese and crackers has a long history, dating back to sailors, soldiers, and pioneers before the advent of refrigeration. Hardtack crackers, which are durable and long-lasting, were often paired with cheese. By the 1850s, cheese and crackers had become a popular menu item in American restaurants and bars, and it was also used as a food ration during the American Civil War.
The combination of cheese and crackers offers a variety of textures and flavours, making it a versatile option for snacking or appetisers. Crackers can be plain or flavoured, and they come in different shapes and sizes. When creating a cheese board, it is recommended to include a variety of crackers to complement the different types of cheeses. For example, mild crackers pair well with strong cheeses, while robust crackers are better suited for milder cheeses. Creative options such as breadsticks, crostini, and themed crackers can add interest to the presentation.
Cheese and crackers can also be served with various accompaniments. Cured meats, such as salami, ham, or chorizo, are a popular addition, creating a charcuterie board. Fruits, vegetables, sauces, and spreads can also be included to enhance the flavour combinations. For instance, Manchego cheese pairs well with smoky meats and dried apricots, while Cheddar complements cured meats, cashews, apples, and dark chocolate. Brie or triple cream cheeses are delicious with fig butter, preserves, or candied pecans.
The popularity of cheese and crackers as a snack has led to the creation of mass-produced products such as Ritz, Jatz, Lunchables, and Lunchly. However, it is also simple to make homemade cheese crackers using ingredients like flour, salt, butter, water, and cheese. These homemade crackers can be tailored to individual tastes and preferences, such as adding garlic powder or chilli powder for extra flavour.
Cheese and crackers have become a staple in many households, offering a quick and easy snack option that can be customised with different types of cheeses and crackers to suit varying dietary preferences and tastes. Whether served as a casual snack, an appetiser, or a dessert, cheese and crackers provide a delightful combination of flavours and textures that has endured through the ages.
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Crackers are the base of any cheese board, adding texture and flavour to the charcuterie experience
The term "cheese and crackers" is used to refer to the pairing of crackers with cheese. Crackers are indeed the base of any cheese board, adding texture and flavour to the charcuterie experience. They are the vehicle for all your cheese, meat, and toppings. While it may be tempting to focus on the more colourful fixings, crackers are essential for a well-rounded cheese board.
There are numerous types of crackers that can be used, from plain water crackers to creative options like breadsticks, crostini, and themed crackers. It is recommended to have at least two types of crackers on a cheese board: one that is more robust and flavourful to complement plainer cheeses, and another that is simpler to pair with more complex cheeses. The shape and size of crackers can also vary, and it is fun to include different options. Crackers can be arranged in a fan shape around cheese wheels or placed on a separate plate or bowl if there is not enough room on the board.
When it comes to pairing crackers with cheese, it is generally advised to match mild crackers with strong cheeses and robust crackers with milder cheeses. For example, multigrain or whole wheat crackers pair well with aged cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano, Gouda, and Manchego. On the other hand, softer cheeses like Ameribella or JQ pair well with plain or lightly flavoured crispy crackers, such as rosemary crackers.
Crackers can also be homemade, and recipes typically include ingredients such as flour, salt, butter, water, and cheese. Homemade crackers allow for customization and the avoidance of unwanted additives found in some store-bought varieties. They are also a more economical option and can be made with a variety of cheeses, such as mature Cheddar, Parmesan, or a mixture of cheeses like Gruyere, Cheddar, and Parmesan.
Cheese and crackers have a long history, dating back to being the fare of sailors, soldiers, and pioneers before the advent of refrigeration. It became a common menu item in American restaurants and bars in the 1850s and was also consumed during the American Civil War. Over time, it has been enjoyed by people from all walks of life, including explorers, presidents, and the general public, showcasing its versatility and appeal across different cultures and eras.
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There are many types of crackers, from plain to gluten-free, and they can be paired with a variety of cheeses
The practice of placing cheese on crackers has a long history, with early explorers, sailors, and soldiers relying on this convenient combination for sustenance. Over time, cheese and crackers have become a beloved snack, hors d'oeuvre, and even a dessert for people of all ages. The versatility of this pairing is evident in its ability to accommodate various dietary preferences, including gluten-free options.
When it comes to crackers, there is a diverse assortment to choose from, ranging from plain to gluten-free varieties. Crackers serve as the foundation of a charcuterie board, providing a textural contrast to the cheeses and acting as a vehicle for all the delicious toppings. While plain crackers are a classic choice, don't be afraid to explore creative options like breadsticks, crostini, and themed crackers in various shapes and sizes. These not only elevate the visual appeal but also cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
The key to successful pairing lies in finding the right balance between the strength of the cheese and the flavour of the cracker. When dealing with a strong-flavoured cheese, opt for a milder cracker, and vice versa. For instance, a robust and flavourful cracker pairs well with plainer cheeses, while a simple cracker complements complex cheeses with stronger flavours. This ensures that neither the cheese nor the cracker overpowers the other, creating a harmonious tasting experience.
The type of cheese also plays a role in determining the best cracker pairing. For aged cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano, Gouda, and Manchego, multigrain, whole wheat, seeded crackers, flatbreads, or olive oil crackers make excellent choices. On the other hand, triple cream and soft rind cheeses like brie, camembert, and Comté are best enjoyed with water crackers, fruited crackers, or crostini. Consider gluten-free options like rice crackers or homemade Parmesan crisps to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising on taste.
In addition to the classic store-bought options, homemade crackers are also a delightful option. With just a few simple ingredients, such as flour, salt, butter, and cheese, you can create crispy, delicious crackers in your own kitchen. Experiment with different cheeses, such as mature Cheddar, Parmesan, or a combination of Gruyere, Cheddar, and Parmesan, to find your favourite flavour profile. Not only are homemade crackers economical and free from undesirable additives, but they also allow you to customise your cheese and cracker pairings to perfection.
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Cheese and crackers was historically consumed by sailors, soldiers, and pioneers before becoming popular in restaurants and bars in the 1850s
The term "cheese and crackers" is used to refer to the pairing of crackers with cheese. This combination is often served with wine, fruit preserves, pickles, stuffed olives, and preserved meats such as salami, pepperoni, or various sausages. It can be served as a snack, hors d'oeuvre, or dessert.
Cheese and crackers, also known as "cheese and biscuits" in the UK, was historically consumed by sailors, soldiers, and pioneers. Before the advent of refrigeration, sailors and explorers would take hardtack crackers and cheese on their journeys as these items had a long shelf life. For instance, in 1852, Ezra Meeker consumed cheese and hardtack with dried venison meat during his time on the Oregon Trail. Similarly, in 1915, mountaineer Philip Rogers consumed cheese and hardtack with raisins and nuts during his expedition around Mount Rainier in Washington state.
By the 1850s, cheese and crackers had become a common menu item in American restaurants and bars. The popularity of this dish increased when bakers began producing thinner crackers with a lighter texture compared to hardtack. During this time, it was also served as an after-dessert course in restaurants and saloons.
During the American Civil War (1861-1865), cheese and crackers were a food ration for soldiers, who sometimes referred to this meal as a "square meal." In the early 20th century, cheese and crackers started being prepared in homes and baked with additional ingredients such as paprika and mustard. It was served with soups and salads and was a common dessert during the Great Depression.
By the 1950s, parenting experts, home economists, and cookbook authors recommended cheese and crackers as a snack for children. The popularity of this snack increased further in the mid-1980s with the introduction of Oscar Mayer's Lunchables, which included cheese, crackers, and lunch meat.
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You can make your own cheese crackers at home with just a few simple ingredients
The combination of cheese and crackers has been popular for a long time, with records showing that it was consumed by sailors, soldiers, and pioneers before refrigeration existed. In the 1850s, it became a common menu item in American restaurants and bars.
There are several variations to the basic recipe that you can try. For example, you can use whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrition or experiment with different types of flour like rye or spelt. You can also add seeds, nuts, or spices to the dough for extra flavor and texture. If you want to make your crackers extra special, try adding cooked and chopped bacon to the dough or sprinkling everything bagel seasoning on top before baking.
Cheese crackers are a versatile snack and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with cheese, paté, dips, or soups. They can also be served as part of a charcuterie board, along with other crackers, meats, nuts, fruits, and vegetables. When creating a charcuterie board, it's important to pair the crackers and cheeses thoughtfully, such as mild crackers with strong cheeses and robust crackers with milder cheeses.
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Frequently asked questions
Putting cheese on crackers is often referred to as "cheese and crackers".
In the UK, "cheese and crackers" is sometimes referred to as "cheese and biscuits".
It is recommended to pair mild crackers with strong cheeses, and robust crackers with milder cheeses. Some specific recommendations include multigrain or whole wheat crackers with aged cheeses, and water crackers with triple cream and soft rind cheeses.
In addition to varying the types of crackers, you can add meats, nuts, fruits, vegetables, sauces, and spreads to your cheese and crackers. You can also make your own crackers with ingredients like flour, salt, butter, and different types of cheese.
