Cheese And Bbq: Perfect Pairing For A Summer Cookout

There are many types of cheese that can be enjoyed with barbecue, either melted into the sauce or grilled alongside the meat. For a classic grilled cheese sandwich, a combination of sharp cheddar and smoked gouda works well with barbecue chicken, red onion, and cilantro. For a more simple option, cheddar cheese is a good pairing with barbecue chicken, while a pulled pork recipe can be enhanced by the addition of sharp cheddar. For those looking to grill cheese as an alternative to meat, there are several options that work well. These include halloumi, feta, paneer, juustoleipä (or bread cheese), and brie.

Grilled cheese sandwich combinations

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic, but there are endless combinations to try. Here are some ideas for grilled cheese sandwich combinations that pair well with barbecue (BBQ) flavours:

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

This sandwich combines BBQ sauce, bread, cheese, cilantro, purple onions, and chicken. For the cheese, a combination of sharp cheddar and smoked gouda works well with the sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. You can also add some red onion and cilantro to the sandwich for a flavour boost.

Cheesy BBQ Pulled Pork

This sandwich features pulled pork mixed with sharp cheddar cheese. You can add barbecue sauce or leave it out, depending on your preference. The sharp cheddar adds a nice flavour to the rich pulled pork. You can serve it on buns, stuff it in baked potatoes, or use it as a topping for nachos.

Grilled Halloumi

Halloumi is a great grilling cheese due to its high melting point. It softens and relaxes when heated, making it ideal for grilling or frying. You can grill slices of halloumi directly on the grill or cut it into cubes and marinate them first. Grilled halloumi can be added to sandwiches, salads, or skewers.

Grilled Feta

Feta is another ideal option for grilling. You can marinate a block of feta overnight or even a full day before grilling it whole. Be sure not to cut or stir the feta, as it will be more prone to crumbling. Once grilled, you can serve it whole with grilled bread or crackers, or cut or crumble it and add it to a salad.

Grilled Paneer

Paneer has similar properties to halloumi and can be grilled whole or on skewers. It's a great cheese to marinate before grilling, and it makes a tasty addition to vegetarian dishes. You can serve grilled paneer on a summery dinner salad.

Grilled Bread Cheese (Juustoleipä)

Bread cheese, also known as juustoleipä, is a great option for grilling. Like halloumi, it can be grilled in larger slices or cut into smaller cubes. When heated, bread cheese softens and relaxes without running or stretching.

Best cheeses for grilling

If you're looking to add some cheese to your barbecue, there are a few types that are ideal for grilling. Here are some of the best cheeses for grilling, along with some tips to help you get the most out of your grilled cheese experience.

Halloumi

Halloumi is a popular choice for grilling, thanks to its high melting point. This semi-hard cheese is made from a combination of goat's and sheep's milk and has a salty flavour and chewy texture. It can be grilled in slices or cubes and is a versatile addition to salads, sandwiches, and skewers.

Kefalotyri

Kefalotyri is another Greek cheese similar to halloumi, made from sheep's or goat's milk. It has a higher melting point, allowing it to brown on the grill without melting. It has a strong salty flavour and a creamy texture when grilled, making it a great appetizer or addition to dishes like saganaki.

Queso Panela

Queso panela is a Mexican basket cheese made from cow's milk. It has a semi-soft texture and a light, fresh flavour with a touch of salt. While it doesn't brown as easily as some other grilling cheeses, it retains its shape and is manageable on the grill. It pairs well with fruity and tart salsa.

Provolone

Provolone is a cow's milk cheese that can be grilled, although it may not sear as well as some other cheeses. It softens and melts when heated, making it a good option for a gooey, grilled cheese sandwich.

Other options

Other cheeses that can be grilled include feta, paneer, juustoleipä (or bread cheese), and Rougette Bon-Fire cheese. These cheeses can be grilled in blocks or slices and are great for adding to salads, sandwiches, or simply enjoying with grilled bread or crackers.

Tips for grilling cheese

• Bring the cheese to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.
• Oil the grill or brush oil directly onto the cheese to prevent sticking.
• Marinate the cheese before grilling for added flavour. Smooth marinades work best, and chunkier marinades may fall off the cheese and into the grill.
• Use tongs and a spatula to help flip and remove the cheese from the grill.
• For meltier cheeses, use a cast-iron skillet on the grill or a specialised cheese grilling tool like the Boska Cheese Barbeclette.

Cheeses to add to pulled pork

When it comes to adding cheese to pulled pork, there are several options to choose from, depending on your taste preferences and budget. Here are some ideas and suggestions for cheeses that pair well with pulled pork:

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for pulled pork sandwiches and grilled cheese sandwiches. It has a tangy and sharp flavour that can offset the sweetness of the pulled pork. Cheddar also melts well and provides a gooey texture that many people enjoy.

Smoked Gouda

Smoked gouda is another excellent option for pulled pork sandwiches. It has a smoky flavour that complements the BBQ flavours in the pulled pork. Smoked gouda melts well and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich.

Monterey or Sonoma Jack

Monterey or Sonoma Jack cheeses are known for their melting capabilities, making them a suitable choice for grilled cheese sandwiches or melted on top of pulled pork. They have a mild flavour that won't overpower the other ingredients.

Mozzarella

Mozzarella is a classic choice for sandwiches and can also work well with pulled pork. It has a stringy, gooey texture when melted and adds a creamy, delicious flavour. Mozzarella is also versatile and can be paired with various other cheeses.

Halloumi

Halloumi is a grill-worthy cheese with a high melting point, making it suitable for grilling alongside your pulled pork. It has a salty, semi-hard texture and a pleasant squeaky, chewy bite. Halloumi can be grilled until it is browned on the outside and softened on the inside, adding a unique texture to your sandwich.

Experiment with Different Cheeses

Ultimately, the best cheese for your pulled pork sandwich depends on your personal preference. You can experiment with different cheeses and see which ones you like best. Some people enjoy using a combination of cheeses to create a more complex flavour profile.

Cheeses to pair with BBQ chicken

BBQ chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with several types of cheese. Here are some options to consider:

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for BBQ chicken dishes. It has a sharp flavour and melts well, making it a good option for sandwiches, pizzas, or even as a topping on BBQ chicken nachos. Its "melty perfection" and "pull-apart goodness" make it a favourite for many.

Smoked Gouda

Smoked gouda is another excellent pairing for BBQ chicken. Its smoky flavour complements the sweetness and tanginess of BBQ sauce. It melts well, adding a creamy texture to your dish. Smoked gouda is a good choice for grilled cheese sandwiches or pizzas.

Pepper Jack Cheese

If you're looking for a little spice, pepper jack cheese is a great option. It adds a nice kick to your BBQ chicken dish without being too overpowering. It melts well and is perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches or quesadillas.

Monterey Jack Cheese

Monterey Jack, also known as Sonoma Jack, is a mild and melty cheese that pairs well with BBQ chicken. It's a versatile option that can be used in various dishes, such as sandwiches, tacos, or even stuffed baked potatoes.

Halloumi

Halloumi is a unique grilling cheese with a high melting point. It softens and relaxes when heated, making it ideal for grilling or frying. Halloumi can be grilled in slices or cubes and added to dishes like vegetable skewers. Its salty flavour and chewy texture make it a tasty addition to any BBQ chicken dish.

These are just a few options to consider when pairing cheese with BBQ chicken. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and find the combination that suits your taste preferences!

Grilled cheese sides and toppings

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic, and there are endless ways to change up the flavours and textures. Here are some ideas for sides and toppings to take your grilled cheese to the next level:

Sides

A side dish can complement and enhance the flavours of your grilled cheese sandwich. Here are some options:

• Chips: Whether it's classic potato chips or something more adventurous like cheesy poutine french fries, chips are a perfect crispy counterpart to a gooey grilled cheese.
• Salad: A light, summery salad with vegetables like grilled eggplant or asparagus can balance out the richness of the sandwich.
• Coleslaw: A scoop of creamy coleslaw on the side or even inside your grilled cheese sandwich can add a refreshing crunch.

Toppings

The right toppings can take your grilled cheese from good to extraordinary. Here are some options to explore:

• Cheese: Of course, cheese is the star of the show. While cheddar is a classic, you can mix it up with smoked gouda, pepper jack, or fontina. For a more mild flavour, try havarti or Monterey Jack.
• Meat: BBQ pulled pork or chicken are excellent additions, especially when mixed with the cheese. You can also try bacon or sausage for a savoury boost.
• Vegetables: Red onions, cilantro, and tomatoes (fresh or in salsa form) can add a burst of freshness and a crunchy texture.
• Sauces: BBQ sauce is a natural pairing with grilled cheese, adding a sweet and tangy flavour. You can also experiment with hot sauce or a spicy barbecue sauce for an extra kick.

Frequently asked questions