Randy Chandler
Easy Cheese is a trademarked name for a processed cheese spread product, also known as spray cheese, squirt cheese, or cheese in a can. It is distributed by Mondelēz International and was first manufactured by Nabisco in 1965. Easy Cheese is available in Cheddar and American flavours, and several varieties have been discontinued over the years.
Beyond this, there are many recipes for making easy cheese at home. These recipes usually require only a few ingredients and no specialized equipment. For example, a simple two-ingredient recipe combines milk and buttermilk. Another recipe for homemade cheese requires heating milk, adding vinegar, and then straining and hanging the curds to make a cheese that can be used like cottage cheese, cream cheese, or ricotta cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Easy Cheese |
| Manufacturer | Mondelēz International |
| Other Names | Spray cheese, Squirt cheese, Cheese in a can, Cheese cans |
| Packaging | Metal can filled with air, covered with a plastic cap and a nozzle |
| Flavors | Cheddar, American |
| Discontinued Flavors | Pimento, French Onion, Cheddar Blue Cheese, Shrimp Cocktail, Nacho, Pizza, Sharp Cheddar, Cheddar 'n Bacon |
| Ingredients | Water, Sodium alginate, Sodium phosphate |
| Function of Water | More stable emulsion, Uniform spread, Moisture content |
| Type of Emulsion | Oil-in-water |
| Oil Droplet Size | Less than 1 micrometer |
| Viscosity | Low-medium |
| Effect of Heating | Separation of fats and proteins |
| Function of Emulsifying Agents | Uniform spread, Alter structure of casein micelles |
| Casein Micelle Diameter | 15-20 nanometers |
| Composition of Casein Micelles | Alpha-, beta-, and kappa-casein |
| Role of Sodium Phosphate | Stabilize casein micelles, Remove calcium from calcium paracaseinate |
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What You'll Learn
Crackers
When choosing a cracker to pair with easy cheese, consider a variety that has a strong flavour that will complement the cheese. For example, a whole wheat cracker with seeds or grains will have a nutty flavour that can add depth to the cheese. Alternatively, a thin and crispy rice cracker can provide a neutral base that will let the flavour of the cheese shine through.
In addition to the type of cracker, consider what toppings or additions might enhance the flavour of the easy cheese. For example, adding a sprinkle of herbs or spices, such as dried basil or red pepper flakes, can add a burst of flavour to the cheese and cracker combination. If you're feeling adventurous, you could also try adding some chopped nuts or dried fruit for a sweet and crunchy surprise.
For a more indulgent option, consider spreading the easy cheese on a cracker and then topping it with a slice of tomato or a piece of avocado. This can add a fresh and juicy element to the snack, creating a well-rounded bite. You could even add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning to take the flavour up a notch.
Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different types of crackers and toppings to find your favourite combination. The versatility of easy cheese makes it a great base for a variety of flavours and textures, so feel free to get creative and explore different options to discover your preferred cracker and easy cheese pairing.
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Bread
Cheese bread is a delicious and easy-to-make snack, appetiser, or side dish. It can be made with a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, gruyere, parmesan, or pepperjack, and can be customised with herbs, garlic, or red pepper flakes.
To make cheese bread, you will need flour, yeast, salt, water, and cheese. Bread flour is recommended due to its higher protein content, which results in a more elastic dough and a fluffier, chewier texture. However, plain or all-purpose flour can also be used.
The basic recipe involves mixing the dry ingredients, including the cheese, and then adding water to form a dough. The dough is then shaped and baked. For a more detailed guide, some recipes recommend mixing flour, yeast, salt, and water with a wooden spoon, letting the mixture double in volume, folding in the cheese, shaping it into a round loaf, and then baking it.
For those who prefer a softer cheese bread, milk or buttermilk can be used instead of water in the dough. Grated sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for the best flavour, and a yellow cheddar will create a prettier loaf as the cheese will be more visible.
Cheese bread can be served in a variety of ways. It can be sliced and toasted, or used as a sandwich bread, especially with soups or pasta dishes. It can also be cut in half horizontally, spread with a cheese mixture, and broiled for a few minutes to create a crispy, cheesy topping.
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Vegetables
Whether you're looking for a side dish, a main dish, or a dip, there are plenty of ways to incorporate easy cheese into your vegetable dishes.
One option is to make a cheese sauce to drizzle over your vegetables. A basic cheese sauce can be made by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat, adding flour and cooking for a couple of minutes, stirring in milk, and then adding shredded cheese. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, gruyere, or pepper jack, and add spices like nutmeg, paprika, or garlic powder to make different flavors of sauce. This sauce goes well with cooked vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and potatoes.
Another option is to stuff vegetables with cheese. Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and tomatoes can be hollowed out and filled with a mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs.
You can also try pairing raw or roasted vegetables with cheese. Sharp cheddar pairs well with roasted Brussels sprouts, caramelized onions, grilled portobello mushrooms, and roasted butternut squash. Goat cheese goes well with grilled zucchini, while grilled cheese sandwiches with vegetables are also a classic combination. Try a Caprese grilled cheese with mozzarella, tomato, and basil on sourdough bread, or a spinach and feta grilled cheese on whole grain bread.
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Chips
Cheese and chips is a classic combination that can be made in a variety of ways. For a quick and easy option, simply melt some grated cheese over your chips. Any cheese that melts well can be used, such as mature cheddar, mild cheddar, Red Leicester, mozzarella, or Parmesan. You can also add spices to your cheese sauce to give it an extra kick. Try mustard powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, or turmeric for a golden colour.
If you're looking for a more indulgent option, why not try making a cheese sauce to pour over your chips? Start by making a roux with butter and flour, then slowly add in your milk to create a smooth sauce. Next, add in your grated cheese and any desired spices. Pour the sauce over your chips and enjoy! This method is perfect for a hearty snack or a family gathering.
For a healthier option, opt for oven chips instead of fried chips. This will reduce the overall fat content of your cheesy chips. You can also try making keto cheese chips, which are a crispy and crunchy snack made with just two ingredients. Simply grease a lined pan or baking sheet and bake your chosen cheese until melted and crispy. These cheese chips can be served on their own or with keto-friendly dips like ketchup or BBQ sauce.
Cheesy chips are a versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a more indulgent treat, there are plenty of ways to enjoy cheese on your chips!
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Pretzels
Soft pretzels with cheese sauce are a perfect snack for a crowd. You can make the pretzels at home or buy them from the freezer section of a store. The cheese sauce is a multi-purpose dip that can be used for nachos, burritos, baked potatoes, tortilla chips, and cooked veggies.
First, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Then, whisk in the flour and keep whisking for about a minute until a thick paste forms. Next, gradually add the milk and whisk. Let this mixture cook uncovered until it has thickened. Now, remove from heat and add the cheese and salt. Whisk this all together, stirring constantly, until the cheese has completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
You can make the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you are ready to serve, either microwave or warm it gently on the stove. You can also keep the sauce warm by transferring it to a mini slow cooker.
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Frequently asked questions
Easy Cheese is the trademark for a processed cheese spread product distributed by Mondelēz International. It is packaged in a metal can with a plastic cap that reveals a nozzle for extruding the cheese.
Easy Cheese is also commonly referred to as "spray cheese", "squirt cheese", "cheese in a can", or "cheese cans".
Easy Cheese is currently available in Cheddar and American flavors. Discontinued varieties include Pimento, French Onion, Cheddar Blue Cheese, Shrimp Cocktail, Nacho, Pizza, Sharp Cheddar, and Cheddar 'n Bacon.
Emulsifying agents such as sodium phosphate play a crucial role in stabilizing the cheese matrix by altering the structure of casein micelles and preventing separation during storage.
Water serves multiple purposes in Easy Cheese. It helps create a more stable emulsion, facilitates the formation of a uniform spread, and provides the necessary moisture content to achieve the desired texture.
