When it comes to crafting the perfect sandwich, choosing the right type of bread is just as important as picking the ideal cheese. Sourdough bread, known for its chewy texture and tangy flavor, is a staple in gourmet sandwiches and pairings. But what kind of cheese goes best with sourdough bread? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best cheeses to pair with sourdough, from grilled cheese to gourmet sandwiches, and even delve into unique pairings for soups and platters.
Introduction
Sourdough bread has grown in popularity due to its natural fermentation process, which gives it a distinct sour flavor and crusty exterior. The bread’s chewy texture is a result of the long fermentation, which also breaks down gluten, making it easier to digest for some people. Its bold flavor demands the best cheeses to pair with sourdough bread, either to complement or contrast its tanginess.
But what are the best cheeses to pair with sourdough bread? While mild cheeses may get overpowered, bold cheeses can create a flavor explosion. Whether you’re preparing a simple grilled cheese or a more complex sandwich, understanding how to balance cheese and sourdough bread is key.
Cheese Characteristics that Complement Sourdough Bread
Flavor Balance
When pairing cheese with sourdough, the first consideration should be the balance of flavors. Sourdough’s tangy, slightly acidic taste can clash with cheeses that are too mild or too sharp. Ideally, you’ll want to strike a balance, either enhancing the sour flavor or mellowing it out.
- Mild Cheeses: These soften the sharp edge of sourdough, creating a more balanced taste.
- Bold Cheeses: These complement the tangy flavor, creating a rich, full-bodied taste.
The texture of the cheese also plays a crucial role. Sourdough’s chewy and firm structure pairs well with creamy cheeses that spread evenly or cheeses that melt well under heat. Cheeses that crumble or are too dry might not work as well with the dense texture of sourdough.
Texture Compatibility
Cheese texture is equally important when pairing with sourdough bread. The bread’s chewiness is well-matched by creamy or semi-hard cheeses, which can either provide a smooth contrast or complement the firmness of the bread. For sandwiches, melting cheeses like cheddar or Havarti create the perfect mouthfeel. For cold applications or cheese boards, firmer cheeses like Swiss or Brie work beautifully.
The general rule of thumb is to balance firm breads with soft or semi-soft cheeses while allowing strong cheese flavors to shine through the sourdough’s bold tang.
Top Cheeses That Pair
Now that we’ve explored the balance of flavors and textures, let’s dive into specific cheeses that work exceptionally well with sourdough.
1. Cheddar
Cheddar is one of the best cheeses to pair with sourdough. Its sharpness balances perfectly with the tangy, fermented flavor of the bread. Whether you’re using mild, sharp, or extra-sharp cheddar, this cheese provides just the right level of creaminess when melted.
- Why it works: Cheddar’s bold flavor stands up to sourdough’s tang, while its creamy texture creates a smooth, gooey consistency when melted.
- Best for: grilled cheese sandwiches, tuna melts, or even as part of a cheese platter.
- Suggested pairing: For a bold, savory combination, try sharp cheddar with a slice of ham or bacon on sourdough.
2. Havarti
Havarti is a smooth, buttery cheese that pairs exceptionally well with the slightly acidic flavor of sourdough bread. It melts easily, making it ideal for both cold and hot sandwiches. The mild flavor of Havarti complements the tang of sourdough without overpowering it.
- Why it works: Havarti’s creamy, mild flavor creates a balance that enhances sourdough’s tang without overwhelming it.
- Best for: grilled sandwiches, veggie sandwiches, and paninis.
- Suggested pairing: Pair Havarti with roasted vegetables or turkey for a rich, flavorful sandwich. Learn more about crafting the perfect grilled cheese.
3. Swiss
Swiss cheese is another excellent pairing for sourdough, especially in hearty sandwiches. Known for its mild, nutty flavor, Swiss cheese adds a subtle complexity to sandwiches without competing with sourdough’s sour notes.
- Why it works: Swiss has a mild, nutty flavor that complements the boldness of sourdough without overshadowing it.
- Best for: Ham and cheese sandwiches, paninis, and cold deli-style sandwiches.
- Suggested pairing: Pair Swiss with turkey, chicken, or bacon for a hearty, savory sandwich.
4. Brie
For a more gourmet option, Brie provides a creamy richness that pairs beautifully with sourdough. Brie’s soft, buttery texture contrasts with the chewy sourdough, making it a favorite for open-faced sandwiches or gourmet cheese platters.
- Why it works: Brie’s creamy, rich flavor provides a smooth contrast to the tangy sourdough, creating a decadent bite.
- Best for: open-faced sandwiches, cheese boards, and gourmet grilled sandwiches.
- Suggested pairing: Try Brie with prosciutto or fig jam on sourdough for a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
5. Provolone
Provolone is a semi-hard cheese with a mild, sharp flavor that pairs well with sourdough, especially in grilled sandwiches. Its ability to melt evenly without becoming overly gooey makes it perfect for paninis and toasted sandwiches.
- Why it works: Provolone offers a mild sharpness that cuts through the tanginess of sourdough while melting beautifully for warm sandwiches.
- Best for: Italian-style sandwiches, grilled paninis, or deli-style sandwiches.
- Suggested pairing: Provolone pairs well with salami or roasted chicken in a warm, toasty sourdough sandwich. Learn more about sandwich pairings here.
6. Gouda
Gouda, especially aged Gouda, is a rich, nutty cheese that complements the sour flavor of sourdough. Its semi-hard texture melts well, making it great for grilled sandwiches or gourmet cheese boards.
- Why it works: Aged Gouda has a strong, nutty flavor that contrasts with sourdough’s tang, while younger Gouda provides a milder, creamy experience.
- Best for: Grilled sandwiches, bacon sandwiches, and cheese platters.
- Suggested pairing: Gouda pairs well with bacon or grilled chicken for a smoky, savory combination.
How to Build the Perfect Cheese and Sourdough Sandwich
Creating a well-balanced cheese and sourdough sandwich requires more than just the right cheese. Understanding the role of additional ingredients, how to toast or grill the sandwich, and how to layer the flavors is key to crafting the perfect sandwich.
Layering Ingredients for Flavor Balance
When building a sandwich, consider both the flavor of the cheese and the sourdough. Add ingredients that either complement or contrast these flavors for a balanced taste.
- Sharp Cheddar: Pairs well with bold flavors like mustard, onions, and pickles.
- Havarti: Complements milder ingredients like roasted veggies or turkey.
- Brie: Works well with sweet additions like honey, fruit preserves, or fresh greens.
Grilling vs. Toasting
The method of cooking can significantly affect the taste and texture of your sandwich. Grilling your sourdough sandwich will give the bread a crispy exterior while allowing the cheese to melt evenly. Toasting works best for open-faced sandwiches or when using softer cheeses like Brie.
- Grilling: Ideal for melting firmer cheeses like cheddar or Provolone.
- Toasting: Works well for open-faced sandwiches with softer cheeses like Brie or Havarti.
Cheese and Sourdough in Other Dishes
Sourdough and cheese aren’t just for sandwiches. This dynamic duo works beautifully in other dishes like cheese boards, soups, and appetizers.
Cheese Platters with Sourdough Bread
Cheese platters featuring sourdough bread can provide a variety of flavors and textures. When crafting a cheese platter, choose cheeses that both contrast and complement the tangy flavor of sourdough.
- Brie and Gouda: For a creamy, nutty flavor contrast.
- Cheddar and Havarti: For a mix of sharp and mild tastes.
- Pair with fruits, honey, and nuts: These items enhance the overall flavor experience when paired with cheese and sourdough.
Sourdough and Cheese with Soups
Nothing pairs better with a bowl of soup than a toasted cheese sandwich on sourdough. The crisp edges of the sourdough and the melted cheese make for the perfect dipping experience.
- Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup: Try a blend of cheddar and Havarti on sourdough for the ultimate comfort food.
- Sourdough Cheese Croutons: Top your soups with chunks of sourdough and melted cheese for added texture.
FAQs
What cheeses melt best on sourdough bread?
Cheddar, Havarti, Swiss, and Provolone are among the best melting cheeses for sourdough. These cheeses provide a gooey, flavorful texture that works well with the chewy bread.
What is the best cheese for a grilled sourdough sandwich?
Cheddar, Gouda, and Provolone are ideal for grilled sandwiches. Their flavors complement the tang of sourdough, and they melt perfectly for that gooey consistency.
Can you eat sourdough bread with cheese as a snack?
Yes! Pairing a slice of sourdough with Brie, Havarti, or Gouda can make a simple and satisfying snack.
Which cheeses should I avoid with sourdough?
Cheeses that are too mild, like mozzarella, may not stand up to the strong flavor of sourdough. Additionally, very strong cheeses like blue cheese may overpower the sour notes.
What spreads work well with sourdough and cheese sandwiches?
Mustard, mayonnaise, aioli, and honey pair well with sourdough and cheese sandwiches. They can enhance or contrast the flavors of the cheese and bread.
Conclusion
Pairing sourdough bread with the right cheese can elevate a simple sandwich or cheese platter into something extraordinary. Whether you’re enjoying a classic grilled cheese or crafting a gourmet open-faced sandwich with Brie, sourdough offers a versatile, flavorful base. Experimenting with different cheese types and additional ingredients allows for endless possibilities in taste and texture.