Andy Montoya
When it comes to summer sausage, there are a variety of cheeses that can be used to elevate this delicious treat. Summer sausage, a semi-dry, salty, tangy, and smoky snack, pairs well with a range of cheeses, from creamy and semi-soft varieties like Havarti, Butterkäse, or Muenster to sharper, nuttier options like Cheddar or Swiss. Those with a more adventurous palate might consider Jalapeno and cheese summer sausage, while those who prefer a milder taste might opt for Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Provolone, or Gouda. Ultimately, the best cheese to pair with summer sausage is a matter of personal preference, and experimentation is encouraged to find the perfect combination of flavours.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Sharp Cheddar, Havarti, Muenster, Butterkäse, Swiss, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Provolone, Gouda |
| Cheese texture | Semi-soft, smooth |
| Cheese flavour | Creamy, nutty |
| Cheese temperature | High-temperature cheese holds its shape better but may not taste as good as regular cheese |
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What You'll Learn
High-temperature cheese vs. regular cheese
When making summer sausage, one of the key considerations is the type of cheese to use. Regular cheese or high-temperature cheese are both options, but there are important differences between the two that will impact your final product.
Regular cheese has a higher moisture content and fat content than high-temperature cheese. This means that regular cheese will melt at lower temperatures, which can be problematic when making sausages. If you add regular cheese to your sausage, it may melt and leave holes in the sausage, affecting the texture and appearance. However, some people prefer the flavour of regular cheese, as high-temperature cheese can have a less desirable taste.
High-temperature cheese, also known as high-melt cheese, is designed specifically for use in meat products like sausages. It has a lower moisture ratio and lower fat content, resulting in a tougher, denser, and drier consistency. This unique composition allows high-temperature cheese to withstand higher temperatures without melting, making it ideal for the sausage-making process. High-temperature cheese comes in a variety of flavours, including cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, ghost pepper, and hot pepper. It adds creaminess and flavour to the sausage while maintaining its shape during cooking.
When deciding between regular cheese and high-temperature cheese for summer sausage, it's important to consider the desired texture, appearance, and flavour. Regular cheese may provide a preferred flavour but can be messier and leave holes in the sausage. High-temperature cheese, on the other hand, holds its shape better and adds a creamy texture, but some people may not enjoy its taste as much.
Additionally, the cooking temperature and the type of cheese used are crucial factors. If you plan to cook your summer sausage at a high temperature, using regular cheese may result in melting and an undesirable outcome. In such cases, high-temperature cheese would be a better option. However, if you're cooking at lower temperatures or prefer the taste of regular cheese, you can use harder varieties like sharp cheddar or provolone, which tend to hold up better.
In conclusion, both regular cheese and high-temperature cheese can be used in summer sausage, but each has its own advantages and drawbacks. Regular cheese offers a preferred flavour for some but may melt and create holes in the sausage. High-temperature cheese, on the other hand, maintains its shape and adds creaminess but might not be as desirable in terms of taste. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific preferences and the cooking temperature you plan to use.
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Creamy, semi-soft cheeses
When it comes to creamy, semi-soft cheeses to pair with summer sausage, there are several options that can provide a delicious contrast in texture and flavour.
Firstly, Havarti is a semi-soft cheese with a smooth and creamy texture. Its neutral flavour profile allows the bold, salty, and smoky notes of the summer sausage to shine through. Similarly, Muenster is another semi-soft cheese with a creamy mouthfeel and a mild taste, making it a perfect complement to the sausage's robust character. Butterkäse is another creamy, semi-soft cheese with a mild flavour that can be used.
For those who enjoy a nutty flavour profile, Monterey Jack is an excellent choice. This semi-soft Italian cheese has a creamy, velvety texture and a smooth, mild flavour that beautifully melts when paired with summer sausage. The slight tanginess of Monterey Jack also helps to cut through the richness of the sausage. Another nutty option is Fontina, which pairs exceptionally well with smoky spiced sausages.
While not all cheddars are semi-soft, younger cheddars tend to have a softer and creamier texture. The sharpness of cheddar can provide a nice contrast to the sausage's smokiness, and its nutty notes complement the sausage's acidity.
It is important to note that while these cheeses are recommended for their flavour and texture profiles, personal preferences may vary. Some people may prefer a sharper or milder cheese, or they may enjoy the contrast of a harder cheese with a softer sausage. Experimentation is encouraged to find the perfect pairing.
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Cheddar
Some people have used regular cheddar cheese in their summer sausages and have still achieved decent results. One person reported that regular grocery store cheddar worked well in their sausage, but it was a bit runny when cutting up the sausage. They also noted that they did not allow their smoker to go above 180°F. Another person reported that they have used both regular and high-temperature cheese in their summer sausages and have not had any problems with either. They noted that when using regular cheese, they freeze the chubs prior to vacuum sealing, which seems to help the cheese hold up better.
It is worth noting that some people do not like the flavour of high-temperature cheese. One person reported that they prefer the flavour of regular cheese, even though it may not result in as pretty of a slice. Sharp cheddar, in particular, is mentioned as a suitable regular cheese option for summer sausages.
Overall, while high-temperature cheese may be recommended for summer sausages, it is possible to use regular cheddar cheese and still achieve satisfactory results. It may be worth experimenting with both options to see which works better for your specific application and taste preferences.
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Wine and cheese pairings
When it comes to wine and cheese pairings, a few classic combinations stand out. Here are some suggestions for creating a delightful tasting experience:
Riesling and Fresh Cheeses
Riesling, a versatile white wine, pairs beautifully with fresh and creamy cheeses. Think of pairing a crisp Riesling with cheeses like cream cheese, mozzarella, ricotta, feta, or mascarpone. The saltiness of these cheeses enhances the fruitiness of the wine, creating a delightful contrast. This combination is especially refreshing with mild meats like summer sausage, salami, or prosciutto.
Chardonnay and Semi-Soft Cheeses
Chardonnay, with its buttery and smooth characteristics, is an ideal match for semi-soft cheeses. Consider pairing it with cheeses like Asiago, Fontina, or Havarti. The acidity and tangy flavours of these cheeses are beautifully complemented by the crispness of a Chardonnay. If you're feeling adventurous, try a bold charcuterie like bresaola or black truffle salami alongside.
Pinot Noir and Hard Cheeses
Pinot Noir, known for its versatility, is a wonderful choice when paired with hard cheeses. Salty, sharp, and nutty cheeses like cheddar or Parmigiano-Reggiano can be beautifully enhanced by the fruit-forward notes of a Pinot Noir. The salt and age of these cheeses mellow out the tannins in the wine, creating a harmonious tasting experience.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Bold Cheeses
For those who enjoy full-bodied flavours, Cabernet Sauvignon is a perfect match for bold-tasting cheeses. Try pairing it with aged cheddar, hot pepper bacon jam, and crackers. The complexity of the wine stands up to the stronger flavours of the cheese, creating a delightful sensory experience. If you're building a charcuterie board, consider adding rich meats like salami or summer sausage.
Zinfandel and Spicy Cheeses
If you're looking for a bolder pairing, Zinfandel is an excellent choice to complement spicy and bold cheeses. Try a combination like Chipotle Cheddar, Sweet & Spicy Mustard Relish, and Golden Toasted Crackers. The acidity of the Zinfandel cuts through the bold flavours, creating a delightful contrast that enhances the tasting experience.
When creating wine and cheese pairings, remember that it's essential to consider the flavours, textures, and intensity of both components. Play around with different combinations and trust your palate to discover your favourite pairings.
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Flavour and visual appeal
When it comes to flavour and visual appeal, there are several factors to consider when choosing the right cheese for summer sausage. Firstly, the type of cheese is important. While some people prefer the convenience and stability of high-temperature cheese, others opt for regular cheese due to its superior taste. Regular cheese options such as sharp cheddar, provolone, and smoked cheddar are popular choices that hold up well during the cooking process. However, high-temperature cheese tends to be more stable and retain its shape when sliced, contributing to a more visually appealing presentation.
The texture and consistency of the cheese also play a role in flavour and appearance. Some cheeses, like regular cheddar, can become runny when mixed into the sausage, creating hollow spots. To mitigate this, some people recommend freezing the cheese before mixing it with the meat. Others suggest using pre-packaged cheese crumbles, which provide a consistent texture and mix easily, resulting in a more uniform product.
Additionally, the level of spiciness or heat in the cheese can impact the overall flavour profile. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, adding jalapenos or other peppers to the cheese mixture can enhance the flavour and create a unique, personalised sausage. However, it's important to consider the preference of the audience, as not everyone may appreciate a spicy sausage.
When pairing summer sausage with cheese, contrast is key. The sausage itself is semi-dry, salty, smoky, and tangy due to lactic acid fermentation. Therefore, a creamier cheese with higher fat content can balance out the acidity. Smooth, semi-soft cheeses like Havarti, butterkäse, or Muenster are excellent choices as their neutral flavour profile allows the sausage's seasonings to take centre stage.
For wine and cheese enthusiasts, the choice of cheese can also influence the wine selection. For instance, Swiss cheese pairs well with Gewürztraminer or riesling, while mild cheddar complements chardonnay. Sharp cheddars, on the other hand, can stand up to bold dry cabernets and zinfandels.
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Frequently asked questions
Smooth, semi-soft cheeses like Havarti, butterkäse, or Muenster are perfect, with a neutral background that lets the sausage's seasonings shine. A sharp Cheddar (any Cheddar, really) or Swiss is also a fantastic match, with nutty notes that perfectly complement the smoke and acidity of the sausage.
You can use regular cheese or high-temperature cheese. Some people prefer the taste of regular cheese, but it can be runny and may not hold its shape when sliced. High-temperature cheese holds its shape better and looks visually appealing when sliced. However, it may not taste as good as regular cheese.
Popular choices include Monterey Jack, pepper jack, provolone, and Gouda.
High-temperature cheese may be more expensive and harder to source. Regular cheese from a local store can be used as an alternative.
The choice of cheese depends on the desired taste and texture. Regular cheese is easier to source and tastes better to some people, but it may not hold its shape as well as high-temperature cheese. High-temperature cheese is designed to withstand higher temperatures without melting, resulting in a better texture and appearance but may not taste as good.
