Bushra Griffith
American cheese is a processed cheese with a distinct gooey, melty, milky, salty flavour and texture. It is often used in cheeseburgers and grilled cheese sandwiches. While it may not be considered a great culinary gift, it is certainly an iconic one. But which brands of American cheese do restaurants use? In this response, we will explore the different types and brands of American cheese available and try to determine which ones are most popular among restaurants.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | American Pasteurized Prepared Cheese Product |
| Texture | Melty, gooey, stretchy, oozy |
| Flavor | Milky, salty, tangy |
| Color | Neon orange, creamy white |
| Brand | Kraft, Land O' Lakes, Walmart, Velveeta, Boars Head |
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Kraft Singles
Kraft has recently released new flavoured Singles, including jalapeno, garlic and herb, and caramelized onion, which have been described as tasting gimmicky and more like dip than cheese.
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Land O' Lakes
Land O'Lakes is a popular American cheese brand that offers a range of cheese products, including sliced and loaf cheeses. The brand has been around since 1921, when the Land O'Lakes Dairy Co-op was formed by a group of dairy farmers. Today, the company is still owned and driven by its farmer-members.
Land O'Lakes' American cheese is a versatile product used in a variety of dishes. The pre-sliced cheese is ideal for hot and cold sandwiches, paninis, wraps, and cheeseburgers. It is also perfect for grilled cheese, melting evenly and providing a gooey texture. The brand's American cheese is available in both white and yellow varieties, catering to different preferences and recipes.
The company's Deli American cheese is a favourite at delicatessens and is known for its creamy texture and perfect melt. It is a staple for lunchtime sandwiches and can elevate a simple dish. The product is also available in reduced-fat and low-sodium varieties, providing healthier options for consumers.
In addition to sliced cheese, Land O'Lakes offers American cheese loaves, providing flexibility in the kitchen. The loaves can be shredded, cubed, or sliced, making them suitable for various recipes. They can be used as a base for queso dips, added to sauces and soups, or used as a topping or filling for dishes like Macaroni and Cheese.
While Land O'Lakes is a well-known and trusted brand, some consumers have noted changes in the recipe for their white American cheese. Some have expressed disappointment in the new texture, claiming it has become rubbery and doesn't melt as well as it used to. However, the brand continues to be a go-to choice for many, especially with its convenient pre-sliced options and versatility in various dishes.
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Boars Head
While I cannot find specific information on which restaurants use Boar's Head American cheese, I can provide you with some details on the product.
Boar's Head offers both white and yellow American cheese, which is available sliced fresh at delicatessens. The cheese is crafted from a hand-selected blend of rich, savoury cheddars, including young, medium, and mature cheddars that are barrel-aged and chosen to meet the brand's unique specifications. It is made with 100% cheddar cheese, whole cow's milk, and contains no gluten, artificial colours, flavours, caramel colour, MSG, fillers, by-products, or trans fat.
The cheese has a smooth, creamy texture and a pleasantly mild taste. It is known for its meltability and rich, vibrant flavour, making it suitable for both hot and cold applications.
Some consumers have praised Boar's Head American cheese, describing it as "amazing" and having less "crap" than Kraft Deluxe singles.
In addition to Boar's Head, other popular brands of American cheese include Kraft, Land O' Lakes, Walmart's Great Value, and Velveeta. These brands are commonly used in restaurants and homes, offering a range of flavours and meltability.
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Pasteurized Process Cheese
The process of making pasteurized process cheese involves blending and melting down "real" cheeses such as cheddar or Colby with additives like whey, milk protein, and emulsifying salts. This results in a product that has a longer shelf life, resists separation when cooked, and has a uniform look and behaviour. It is also more affordable than traditional cheesemaking due to its mass production.
The term "pasteurized process cheese" is regulated under U.S. law, and the specific standards for its composition and manufacturing are outlined in the Code of Federal Regulations. The emulsifying agents used in its production include various types of phosphate, citrate, and tartrate, while optional ingredients include acidifying agents such as vinegar, lactic acid, and citric acid.
Some popular brands of pasteurized process cheese include Kraft Deli Deluxe, which is known for its real cheese flavour but lacks meltability, and Velveeta, which is beloved for its mild and sweet taste. These cheeses are commonly used in restaurants and can be purchased at deli counters or in pre-sliced packages.
While pasteurized process cheese has its advantages in terms of taste, texture, and cost, it is important to note that it may not be legally marketed as "cheese" due to the presence of additives. However, this type of processed cheese has become a staple in American cuisine, especially when it comes to creating the perfect cheeseburger or grilled cheese sandwich.
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Velveeta
While some people enjoy the taste and convenience of Velveeta, others consider it to be tasteless and of lower quality than real cheese. It is often used as a substitute for American cheese due to their similar taste and texture, but Velveeta's superior melting properties set it apart.
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Frequently asked questions
American cheese is a processed cheese product that is known for its gooey, melty texture and mild, salty flavour. It is often used in grilled cheese sandwiches and cheeseburgers.
Restaurants typically use processed American cheese products like Kraft Singles, Kraft Deli Deluxe, or Velveeta. These cheeses have good meltability and a salty, milky flavour that complements burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches without overwhelming the other ingredients.
American cheese is made by blending and melting down "real" cheeses like cheddar, Colby, or Swiss with other ingredients such as whey, milk proteins, and emulsifying salts. This process alters the texture and flavour, creating a product that melts smoothly without becoming greasy.
