Cheese And Chili: Perfect Pairing Or Culinary Catastrophe?

There are many types of cheese that can be paired with chili, with the most popular being cheddar cheese. The sharpness of the cheddar can be adjusted to personal preference, ranging from mild to medium to extra sharp. Other suitable options include Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, American processed cheese, and Feta. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, Pepper Jack cheese is a good choice, while Monterey Jack offers a milder flavour and a stringy texture. For a unique twist, some have suggested experimenting with crumbled blue cheese, smoked Gouda, or even goat cheese. Ultimately, the choice of cheese depends on individual taste and the desired level of spice and tanginess to complement the chili.

Popular cheese choices

There are several types of cheese that are commonly paired with chili, and the right choice for you will depend on your personal preference. Here are some options to consider:

Cheddar

Cheddar is one of the most popular cheeses to pair with chili. It has a strong flavour that can add a nice oomph to your dish. You can choose from mild, medium, or sharp cheddar, depending on your taste preference. Sharp cheddar has a more intense flavour and tends to be more popular with those who enjoy a stronger cheese presence in their chili.

Monterey Jack

Monterey Jack is a good option if you're looking for something milder than cheddar. It has a stringy, stretchy texture when melted, adding a gooey, creamy element to your chili.

Pepper Jack

If you're a fan of spice, pepper jack is a great choice. It has a similar texture to Monterey Jack but includes spicy peppers for an added kick.

Feta

Feta is a tangy, salty cheese that can add a unique flavour to your chili. It has a crumbly texture and is often paired with a squeeze of lime, sour cream, and cilantro for a refreshing twist.

Blue Cheese

Blue cheese is another option with a strong flavour that can complement the savoury notes of a beef chili. It has a tangy and slightly sweet taste that can enhance the overall flavour profile of the dish.

Other Options

In addition to the above, there are several other cheeses that you can experiment with, such as goat cheese, Muenster, smoked Gouda, Manchego, or even a combination of multiple cheeses. Some people also enjoy using processed cheese slices, which melt particularly well and can add a creamy texture to the dish.

Interesting cheese choices

There are many interesting cheese choices to pair with your chili, and the options are far more extensive than simply cheddar.

Firstly, it is worth noting that the type of chili you are making may influence your cheese choice. For example, if you are making a beef-based chili, blue cheese is a good choice as its slight tang and sweetness complement the savouriness of the beef. If you are making a vegetarian chili, you could try goat's cheese or feta, which also work well with bean-based chilis.

If you are looking for something a little different, then smoked gouda is a great option. It has a strong flavour that can hold its own against the heat of a chili. Another option with a strong flavour is Muenster, which works on almost anything. For something a little milder, try Monterey Jack, which is stringy and creamier than cheddar.

For those who like their chili spicy, pepper jack is a good choice. You could also try adding a little pecorino ramano during the cooking stage to add a nice flavour. If you are feeling adventurous, you could even try crumbling some stilton over your chili.

Finally, for those who like their cheese extra melty, American processed cheese slices are a good option, or you could try queso fresco, a mild and creamy Mexican cheese.

Cheese to avoid

While there are many types of cheese that can be paired with chilli, there are some cheeses that are best avoided.

Firstly, it is important to avoid using poor-quality cheese. While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper options, especially when feeding a large group, using low-quality cheese can negatively impact the overall taste of the dish. It is worth investing in a decent cheese to elevate your chilli and create a more enjoyable dining experience.

In addition, some specific types of cheese should be avoided when making chilli. Soft cheeses, such as feta, are generally not recommended. Feta has a tangy and salty taste that can overpower the other flavours in the chilli. It also tends to have a crumbly texture, which can make it difficult to melt and incorporate smoothly into the dish.

Another cheese to avoid is American processed cheese. While it melts well, its artificial flavour and texture can detract from the heartiness of the chilli. It is also significantly higher in sodium than other cheeses, which can make the dish overly salty.

Finally, it is important to consider the spice level of your chilli when choosing a cheese. If your chilli is already quite spicy, avoid using pepper jack cheese, as it will add even more heat. Similarly, if your chilli is on the milder side, it is best to steer clear of extra sharp cheddar, as its strong flavour can overwhelm the other ingredients.

How to serve the cheese

There are many ways to serve cheese with chili, and the type of cheese you choose can vary depending on your taste preferences. Here are some suggestions on how to serve cheese with chili:

Shredded or Melted Cheese

Shredded cheese is a popular way to serve cheese with chili. You can choose a sharp cheddar cheese and sprinkle it on top of the chili. If you prefer a milder taste, Monterey Jack cheese is a good option. For those who like spicy food, Pepper Jack cheese will add an extra kick to your chili. You can also use a combination of cheeses to create a Mexican four-cheese blend, which pairs well with tortilla chips. If you're serving a large group, you can bake the chili in the oven with cheese on top, creating a melted cheese topping.

Cheese as a Garnish

Cheese can also be used as a garnish or topping for chili. Grated mild cheddar cheese is a popular choice, as it adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavour without being too overpowering. It's important to add the cheese at the last minute to avoid it melting into a greasy mess. Feta cheese is another option for those who want a saltier, more crumbly texture. You can also try crumbled Lancashire cheese, which has excellent meltability.

Chili Cheese Nachos

Creating chili-cheese nachos is a delicious way to serve cheese with chili. Smother tortilla chips with your chili, add some barbecue sauce, and top with green onions, tomatoes, and shredded Mexican cheese. Broil the nachos for a minute or until the cheese is melted, and serve with sour cream or guacamole on the side.

Chili Cheese Dip

If you're serving chili as an appetizer or at a party, you can turn it into a dip by adding extra cheese. Simply stir in shredded cheese until melted, and serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or bread for dipping. This creates a creamy, cheesy chili dip that your guests will love.

Chili Cheese Casserole

For a heartier option, you can create a chili cheese casserole by layering chili, rice, and cheese in a baking dish. Top it off with some crushed nachos for a crunchy texture. Bake it in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This option is perfect for a potluck or a cozy night in.

Chili Cheese Dogs

For a unique twist, try serving chili with cheese on hotdogs. Simply top your favourite hotdog with chili and shredded cheese, creating a messy yet delicious combination. This option is perfect for a summer barbecue or game day.

Remember, when serving cheese with chili, it's essential to consider the type of cheese and the presentation that best suits your preferences and the occasion.

What to serve with the cheese

When it comes to cheese, there are endless possibilities for what to serve alongside it. Here are some ideas to elevate your cheese course:

Breads and Crackers

The right bread or cracker can complement a variety of cheeses. Try pairing your cheese with a crusty baguette, warm pita bread, naan flatbread, breadsticks, or entertainment crackers and gourmet crackers.

Fruits

Fruits can provide a refreshing contrast to rich and creamy cheeses. Opt for fresh or dried figs, sliced pears or apples, fresh raspberries, dates, dried apricots, or apple chips.

Nuts

Nuts offer a crunchy texture and can enhance the flavour of cheese. Consider serving warm Marcona almonds, candied pecans, spiced nuts, salted cashews, or a mix of your favourite nuts.

Condiments

Condiments can add a burst of flavour to your cheese. Try pairing your cheese with pesto, mixed olive tapenade, apricot jam, marmalade, or honey.

Meats

If you're creating a charcuterie board, include a variety of Italian cured meats such as prosciutto di Parma, salami, coppa, or hot capicola.

Vegetables

Vegetables can provide a refreshing crunch and balance out the richness of the cheese. Try cucumbers, grapes, or other fresh seasonal vegetables.

Dips and Jellies

Dips and jellies are a must-have at wine-and-cheese parties. Offer chutney, mustard, fruit compotes, jams, quince paste, guava paste, or varietal honey.

Remember, when creating a cheese platter, variety is key. Include a mix of different cheeses, such as firm, soft, and semi-soft options, and don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of accompaniments.

Frequently asked questions