What To Know
- Blue cheese is a bold and flavorful cheese that can add a complex and savory element to turkey pastrami.
- Whether you prefer a classic pairing or a bold and adventurous combination, there is a cheese out there that will elevate the taste of your turkey pastrami and create a truly memorable culinary experience.
- Turkey pastrami and cheese can be served in a variety of ways, including on sandwiches, platters, and as part of a cheeseboard.
Turkey pastrami, with its smoky, savory, and slightly salty flavor, is a culinary masterpiece that deserves to be paired with the perfect cheese. Choosing the right cheese can elevate the taste of turkey pastrami, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Swiss Cheese: A Classic Choice
Swiss cheese is a traditional pairing for turkey pastrami, and for good reason. Its mild, nutty flavor and slightly sweet undertones complement the smokiness of the pastrami without overpowering it. The holes in Swiss cheese also trap the juices from the pastrami, resulting in a moist and flavorful combination.
Provolone Cheese: A Salty Contrast
Provolone cheese adds a salty contrast to the richness of turkey pastrami. Its semi-hard texture and slightly tangy flavor provide a balanced and satisfying bite. Provolone also melts well, making it a great choice for grilled pastrami sandwiches.
Monterey Jack Cheese: A Mild and Creamy Option
Monterey Jack cheese is a mild and creamy cheese that pairs well with turkey pastrami without overpowering its flavor. Its smooth texture and slight sweetness complement the pastrami’s smokiness, creating a harmonious and indulgent experience.
Cheddar Cheese: A Sharp and Tangy Addition
Cheddar cheese adds a sharp and tangy flavor to turkey pastrami. Its bold and nutty taste can stand up to the smokiness of the pastrami, creating a complex and flavorful combination. Aged cheddar cheeses provide a more intense flavor, while milder cheddars offer a more subtle touch.
Gouda Cheese: A Nutty and Sweet Complement
Gouda cheese is a semi-hard cheese with a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. Its smooth texture and creamy interior pair well with the smoky and salty notes of turkey pastrami. Gouda also melts well, making it a versatile choice for both sandwiches and platters.
Brie Cheese: A Soft and Creamy Indulgence
Brie cheese is a soft and creamy cheese with a mild and slightly mushroomy flavor. Its velvety texture and rich interior provide a luxurious contrast to the smokiness of turkey pastrami. Brie is best served at room temperature, allowing its flavors to fully develop.
Blue Cheese: A Complex and Savory Pairing
Blue cheese is a bold and flavorful cheese that can add a complex and savory element to turkey pastrami. Its tangy and slightly salty taste complements the smokiness of the pastrami, creating a unique and unforgettable combination. Blue cheeses with a milder flavor, such as Gorgonzola dolce, are a good starting point for those new to blue cheeses.
Which Cheese Is Right for You?
The best cheese for turkey pastrami depends on your personal taste preferences. If you prefer a classic pairing, Swiss cheese is a reliable choice. For a salty contrast, provolone is an excellent option. If you want a mild and creamy flavor, Monterey Jack is a great pick. For a sharp and tangy addition, cheddar cheese is a bold choice. For a nutty and sweet complement, Gouda is a versatile option. For a soft and creamy indulgence, brie is a luxurious choice. And for a complex and savory pairing, blue cheese adds a unique and unforgettable element.
Final Thoughts: A Symphony of Flavors
Choosing the best cheese for turkey pastrami is a culinary journey that can lead to a symphony of flavors. Whether you prefer a classic pairing or a bold and adventurous combination, there is a cheese out there that will elevate the taste of your turkey pastrami and create a truly memorable culinary experience.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: What is the best way to serve turkey pastrami and cheese?
A: Turkey pastrami and cheese can be served in a variety of ways, including on sandwiches, platters, and as part of a cheeseboard.
Q: Can I use any type of cheese with turkey pastrami?
A: While any type of cheese can technically be paired with turkey pastrami, the flavors and textures of the cheeses listed above are particularly complementary.
Q: How do I store turkey pastrami and cheese?
A: Turkey pastrami should be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or butcher paper. Cheese should be stored in its original packaging or in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
