Andy Montoya
Beer and cheese are a match made in heaven, but did you know you can make cheese with beer? This combination, known as beer cheese, was first served in the 1940s at a restaurant in Clark County, Kentucky. Since then, cheesemakers across the US have been crafting beer cheese with different varieties of beer. From stouts to Scotch ales, the type of beer used in beer cheese can vary, but the key is that the beer doesn't overpower the cheddar. Hooters, a popular restaurant chain, is known for its delicious beer cheese made with stout beer, served alongside salted Bavarian pretzels.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Beer Type | Stout Beer |
| Beer Brand | Hooters Lager |
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What You'll Learn
Hooters beer cheese likely contains stout beer
The key phrase here is "a shot of stout beer." This indicates that the beer used in the cheese sauce is most likely a stout variety. Stout beer is a dark, top-fermented beer that is characterized by its robust flavor and dark color, often ranging from black to deep brown. It is typically made with roasted malt or roasted barley, giving it a coffee-like or chocolatey taste.
The use of stout beer in the cheese sauce adds a unique flavor profile that complements the other ingredients. The roasted malt or barley notes in the stout beer pair well with the melted cheeses, enhancing their creaminess and adding a subtle bitterness. The red and green roasted peppers also benefit from the stout beer, as their sweetness and slight charred notes are accentuated.
In addition, the stout beer likely contributes to the overall texture of the cheese sauce. The beer adds a creamy and smooth consistency to the blend of melted cheeses, making it ideal for dipping pretzels. The combination of stout beer and cheese creates a rich and indulgent appetizer that is a favorite among Hooters patrons.
While the specific brand or type of stout beer used in Hooters beer cheese may vary, the inclusion of stout beer as a key ingredient is a distinctive feature that sets it apart from other cheese sauces. This unique twist on a classic dish showcases Hooters' creativity in incorporating beer into their menu items, appealing to customers who enjoy the combination of beer and cheese.
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Beer cheese can be made with different beers
Beer cheese is a type of cheese that first appeared in the 1940s at a restaurant in Clark County, Kentucky, owned by John Allman. The owner credited the invention of the cheese spread to his cousin, Joe Allman, a chef in Phoenix, Arizona. The annual Beer Cheese Festival is held in downtown Winchester, KY, the county seat of Clark County, featuring local artisans and both commercial and amateur recipe contests.
When making beer cheese, it is important to use a beer that you enjoy the taste of, as the flavour will be intensified in the sauce. Cheesemakers often prefer strong beers like porters or stouts to ensure that the beer flavour does not overpower the cheddar. However, the type of beer used can vary depending on the desired taste and intensity.
Some recipes for beer cheese sauce include additional ingredients such as milk, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne. The cheese used can also be varied, and the sauce can be adapted to achieve different consistencies and spice levels. For a thicker sauce or dip, the cooking time can be increased, or less liquid can be added. For a spicier sauce, additional cayenne or jalapeno can be incorporated.
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Cheddar is a popular choice for beer cheese
Although there are conflicting stories about beer cheese's origins, it is believed to have first been served in the 1940s at a restaurant in Clark County, Kentucky, called Johnny Allman's. The popularity of beer cheese has never waned, and it is now a well-loved staple in bars and homes across the country. Beer cheese is a spread made from cheese, usually cheddar, blended with beer and a few spices until smooth. Cheddar is a popular choice for beer cheese because it pairs well with a variety of beers, from light lagers to dark stouts, without being overpowered by the beer's flavour. The choice of beer is important, as intensely flavoured craft beers or hop-forward IPAs can make the spread unpleasantly bitter and overpower the cheddar. Instead, a lighter beer with some character but low bitterness, like a malt-forward Mexican lager or a Helles lager, is recommended.
Cheddar beer cheese can be served as a classic uncooked spread or cooked versions that more closely resemble fondue or beer cheese soup. It is often paired with crackers, pretzels, or raw vegetables for dipping. Some people also use it as a sauce on pizza dough or with chicken wings. The versatility of cheddar beer cheese makes it a popular choice for entertaining and it has even been picked up by Walmart for their entertainment section.
The process of making cheddar beer cheese is relatively simple and can be done in a saucepan with a whisk. Butter and flour are melted and whisked together until thickened, then milk is added while whisking until thickened again. Next, beer is whisked in until smooth, and the mixture is simmered until thick. Finally, shredded cheese is whisked into the sauce until smooth, along with dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to taste. The result is a creamy, cheesy spread that can be served warm or cold.
While cheddar is a popular choice for beer cheese, there are also variations that use other types of cheese. Some people substitute cheddar with Gruyere, Gouda, Fontina, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack. There are also beer cheeses that use a double cream wheel for the base and add flavour on top, like Tulip Tree's Foxglove, a double cream-washed rind cheese washed in beer and special bacteria. These cheeses embrace the opportunity to experiment with different combinations of cheese and beer to create unique flavours.
Overall, cheddar is a popular choice for beer cheese because of its versatility in pairing with a variety of beers and its ability to stand up to the beer's flavour without being overpowered. The result is a delicious and versatile spread that has become a favourite for many people across the country.
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Beer can be added during the cheese-making process
When adding beer to cheese, it is important to consider the type of beer used and the amount added. Different beers will contribute different flavours and aromas to the cheese. For example, a stout beer, like that used in the Hooters beer cheese, will add a rich, roasted flavour, while a lighter beer may contribute a more subtle, crisp note. The amount of beer added will also impact the final product, with a higher proportion of beer resulting in a stronger flavour and a looser texture.
Beer can be incorporated into cheese in several ways. One method is to add it directly to the milk during the initial stages of cheese-making. This allows the beer to mix with the milk proteins and affect the overall structure and flavour of the cheese. Alternatively, beer can be incorporated later in the process by mixing it with the curds after they have formed. This method may result in a more distinct beer flavour, as the beer does not undergo the same level of transformation as when added to the milk.
The type of cheese being made will also dictate when and how the beer is added. For example, a beer-washed cheese involves rinsing or soaking the cheese in beer after it has been formed and salted. This process adds flavour and encourages the growth of specific bacteria on the cheese's surface, contributing to its unique texture and taste. In contrast, when making a beer-soaked cheese, the beer is incorporated by soaking the cheese in beer for a set period, allowing the beer to permeate the cheese and impart its flavour.
Overall, the addition of beer during cheese-making can be a creative and flavourful endeavour. By experimenting with different beers and techniques, cheesemakers can produce a wide range of unique and delicious beer-infused cheeses. The process requires careful consideration of the type of beer, the amount added, and the timing of its incorporation to achieve the desired results.
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Beer can be used as a wash for the cheese rind
Beer and cheese are a classic combination, and it is no surprise that beer can be used as a wash for the cheese rind. Beer-washed cheese is a unique way to blend the flavours of both beer and cheese.
The process of making beer-washed cheese involves using beer to bathe the cheese, creating a unique flavour and environment for rind development. The cheese is washed in beer and special bacteria, and the beer's strong flavour and alcohol content aid in the growth of the rind. It is important to note that the beer should not overpower the cheese, but rather enhance its flavour. One example of beer-washed cheese is Tulip Tree Creamery's Foxglove, a double cream-washed rind cheese.
To make beer-washed cheese at home, one must first drain the curd by lining forms with cheesecloth and placing them on a cooling rack over a baking sheet. The curd is then transferred to the forms and turned after specific intervals. After draining, the cheese is pressed lightly and salted before being aged in a cooler, higher-humidity environment. During the ageing process, the cheese is washed with beer, typically an Abbey or Trappist-style ale, every day during the first week and then twice a week if the brevibacterium is strong enough. It is important to flip the cheese when rubbing with beer to ensure even development on each side. The cheese is then wrapped in crystal cheese paper or wax paper and stored in the refrigerator for four weeks.
Beer-washed cheese offers a unique flavour profile that blends the best of both beer and cheese. It is a testament to the creativity and innovation of cheesemakers and brewers, providing a delightful sensory experience for enthusiasts of both beverages and dairy products.
While I could not find specific information about the kind of beer used in Hooter beer cheese, Hooters does offer a Hooters Lager, which may be used in their beer cheese. Hooters also serves a variety of other dishes that include both beer and cheese, such as chicken tenders tossed in wing sauce and topped with cheddar and provolone.
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Frequently asked questions
Hooters beer cheese is made with stout beer.
Hooters beer cheese is made with creamy cheese and served with salted Bavarian pretzels.
Different varieties of beer can be used to make beer cheese, including Scotch ale, Imperial Stout Ale, porters, and lagers.
To make beer cheese, you can melt butter over medium heat, add flour and whisk until combined. Then, add beer, milk, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper, cayenne, and cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and serve warm.
