Author: webadmin
How To Host the Perfect Cheese and Wine Tasting at Home
Planning a memorable cheese and wine tasting at home can be a simple affair.
With the right selection of cheeses, wines, and a bit of creativity, you can create an experience that rivals the best wine bars.
Here are 5 steps to hosting an unforgettable evening of cheese and wine pairing.
- Select your cheeses and wines
First things first, you’ll need to pick your favorite cheeses – aim for different textures and flavors to keep things interesting.
A well-rounded selection might include:
- Soft cheeses:Brie, camembert
- Semi-hard cheeses:Gouda, cheddar
- Hard cheeses:Parmesan, Manchego
- Blue cheeses:Glacier wildfire blue cheese
For the wine, consider the following classic cheese and wine pairing options:
- Sparkling winewith brie or camembert
- Chardonnaywith gouda or cheddar
- Cabernet sauvignonwith parmesan or manchego
- Portwith blue cheese
Remember, the key to a great cheese and wine pairing is balance—matching the intensity of the cheese with that of the wine. Keep the process simple though and don’t overthink it too much.
If you want to get specific, here is our curated group of cheese to go with red wine and ones we recommend serving with white.
- Presentation is everything
Arrange your cheeses on a wooden board or a slate platter. Label each cheese, so your guests know what they’re tasting.
For added sparkle, include small bowls of nuts, dried fruits, chocolates, and honey—these can enhance the flavors of the cheese and wine.
- Guide your guests through the tasting
As part of the experience, guide your guests through the tasting process. Encourage them to start with a small bite of cheese, followed by a sip of wine, and then another bite of cheese to fully experience the interplay of flavors.
- Add in some fun pairing games
To keep it fun, consider blind tastings as a fun way to test your guests’ palates. This will be a cause for much giggling and fun. Cover the labels of the wines and have your guests guess which cheese pairs best with each one.
Another idea is to set up a “build-your-own” pairing station. Lay out an assortment of cheeses and wines and let your guests experiment with their combinations, noting which ones they enjoy the most. Prizes never hurt…
- Finishing touches
No cheese and wine pairing is complete without some thoughtful finishing touches. Offer plenty of water and neutral-flavored crackers to cleanse the palate between tastings.
Lastly, send your guests home with a little something to remember the evening by—whether it’s a small booklet with the cheese and wine pairing ideas you’ve explored together or a mini bottle of wine paired with a slice of cheese.
Wrapping It Up
Hosting a cheese and wine tasting at home is a really fun way to explore new flavors and create lasting memories with friends and family.
With the right pairings, thoughtful presentation, and a bit of creativity, you can turn a simple evening into a sophisticated and fun event. So gather your favorite cheeses, uncork some bottles, and let the tasting begin! Reach out to us to learn more about our range.
Why Does Cheese Melt?
Why Does Cheese Melt?
Have you ever wondered why cheese melts so beautifully? This blog post dives into the science behind cheese melting, including the molecular structure of cheese, the types of proteins present in cheese, and the factors that affect its melting properties. So, why does cheese melt?
Whether you’re a cheese lover, a culinary enthusiast, or just curious about food science, this post will satisfy your appetite.
The Science of Melting
The science behind cheese melting is complex and involves the molecular structure of cheese, the types of proteins present in it, and the impact of heat on these proteins.
When cheese is heated, the molecules within the cheese begin to move rapidly, which causes the protein structure to break down, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture.
Molecular Structure of Cheese
Cheese is a complex food item composed of a matrix of proteins, fats, and water. The molecular structure of cheese is made up of long chains of proteins that are woven together in a complex network.
These proteins, including casein and whey, are held together by weak bonds, such as hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces.
When heat is applied to cheese, these weak bonds break down, causing the proteins to unravel and the cheese to become more fluid.
Factors Affecting Cheese Melting
- Cheese type is a significant factor in determining how it will melt. For example, hard, aged cheeses like Parmesan tend to melt poorly, while soft, creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert melt very quickly.
- The age of the cheese also plays a role in how it melts. Younger cheeses tend to have more moisture and less fat, making them melt quickly and evenly. In contrast, older cheeses have less moisture and more fat, resulting in a less smooth and evenly melted texture.
- Cheese with higher moisture content melts more quickly and efficiently than those without. This is why mozzarella, which has a high moisture content, is often used to melt pizzas.
- Cheeses with higher fat content tend to melt more smoothly and have a richer texture. This is why cheeses like cheddar or Gouda, which have a higher fat content, are commonly used for melting in grilled cheese sandwiches or mac and cheese.
The Future of Melted Cheese
Technological advancements in food science and engineering are continually evolving, which is expected to impact cheese’s melting properties significantly. For example, researchers are currently exploring using ultrasonic waves to alter the structure of cheese proteins, potentially improving the melting properties of certain cheeses.
There is also a growing demand for new, innovative cheese products with unique melting properties. Cheese producers are experimenting with new cheese blends and formulations to create cheeses that melt more easily or have a creamier texture. This trend will continue as consumers seek new and exciting culinary experiences.
Wrapping It Up
Whether it’s a gooey grilled cheese sandwich, creamy mac and cheese, or a decadent fondue, melted cheese is a beloved ingredient that will continue to delight cheese lovers for years.
The Best Grilled Cheese Recipe
The Best Grilled Cheese Recipe
Grilled cheese is a beloved classic comfort food for many people around the world, and there are many reasons why it has earned such a devoted following. One reason is that it is incredibly easy and quick to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation. It’s a dish that can be made at home, in a dorm room, or even on a camping trip with just a few basic supplies.
Grilled cheese sandwiches evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort for many people. Childhood memories of after-school snacks, mom’s grilled cheese, and lazy Sunday mornings can all be associated with this classic sandwich. As such, it has a special place in many people’s hearts and can bring about feelings of warmth and contentment.
What goes into the perfect grilled cheese?
The perfect grilled cheese sandwich is a combination of several elements that come together to create a harmonious and delicious flavor and texture profile. The following are some key components that go into making the best grilled cheese:
- Bread: The bread used, should be sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart or getting too soggy. Many people prefer a bread with a crispy crust and a soft interior, such as sourdough or French bread.
- Cheese: The type of cheese used is a matter of personal preference, but it should be a variety that melts well and has a rich flavor. Cheddar, Gouda, Swiss, and provolone are all popular choices.
- Butter: The butter used for grilling the sandwich should be unsalted and at room temperature so that it spreads easily onto the bread. Some people also like to use mayonnaise or olive oil for a different flavor.
- Temperature: The heat of the skillet or griddle should be medium-low so that the sandwich has time to cook evenly without burning.
- Cooking Time: The sandwich should be cooked for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is golden brown and crispy.
- Additional ingredients: While a classic grilled cheese is simply bread and cheese, some people like to add extras like bacon, tomato, avocado, or caramelized onions for a unique twist.
- Cheese Melting Techniques: To achieve the perfect melt, grating the cheese rather than slicing it can deliver a more even and quicker melt.
Steps to making the best grilled cheese
Making the perfect grilled cheese sandwich involves several key steps that come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Here’s how to do it right:
- Buttering the bread: The first step in making a grilled cheese sandwich is to butter the bread. Take two slices of bread and spread a generous amount of unsalted butter on one side of each slice. This will help the bread to toast and become golden brown while also adding a rich, buttery flavor to the sandwich.
- Cheese selection and preparation: The type of cheese used is a matter of personal preference, but it should be a variety that melts well and has a rich flavor. Grate or slice the cheese and evenly distribute it over one of the buttered slices of bread. If you are adding any additional ingredients, now is the time to layer them on top of the cheese.
- Grilling the sandwich: Place the other slice of bread on top of the cheese and press down gently to create a sandwich. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat and place the sandwich onto the surface. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is golden brown and crispy. To ensure even cooking, you can press down on the sandwich gently with a spatula while it is cooking.
- Additional ingredients or variations: While a classic grilled cheese is simply bread and cheese, you can add a variety of additional ingredients or variations to create a unique and flavorful sandwich. Some popular options include adding cooked bacon, sliced tomato, avocado, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of herbs or spices.
Pro Tips To The Perfect Grilled Cheese
Grilling the perfect grilled cheese sandwich is all about getting the right temperature, timing, and cheese melting techniques. The following are some tips for achieving grilled cheese success:
- Temperature: To ensure that the sandwich cooks evenly and does not burn, it’s important to cook it over medium-low heat. This will give the bread enough time to toast and become golden brown without burning. If the heat is too high, the bread will burn before the cheese has had a chance to melt.
- Time: The cooking time for a grilled cheese sandwich should be 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is golden brown and crispy. It’s important not to rush the cooking process by turning up the heat or flipping the sandwich too often. This can result in uneven cooking and a sandwich that is not fully melted or toasted.
- Cheese melting techniques: To achieve the perfect melt, many people prefer to grate their cheese rather than slicing it. This allows the cheese to melt more evenly and quickly. Another technique is to cover the skillet or griddle with a lid while the sandwich is cooking. This traps the heat and helps the cheese to melt more quickly and evenly.
- Experiment with Cheese Varieties: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice for a grilled cheese sandwich, there are countless other cheese varieties to try. Some popular options include Gouda, Swiss, provolone, mozzarella, or a combination of different cheeses. Each type of cheese will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the sandwich.
- Add Crunch with Ingredients: If you want to add a crunchy texture to your grilled cheese sandwich, try adding ingredients like bacon, crispy onions, or thinly sliced apples. These ingredients will add a satisfying crunch and extra flavor to the sandwich.
Wrapping it up
A grilled cheese sandwich is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. With the right ingredients and techniques, it’s easy to create a perfectly toasted and melted sandwich that is satisfying and delicious.
By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can create a grilled cheese sandwich that is sure to please any cheese lover.
Whether you prefer a classic grilled cheese or like to experiment with different cheeses and ingredients, these tips will help you achieve grilled cheese greatness. So, go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
Superbowl Snacks!
The biggest football game of the year is right around the corner! Don’t let your snack game pale in comparison. Here we have some fun ideas for presentation and taste purposes and a Shisler’s shopping list to make sure your snacks pack the same wow factor as the game!
National Cheese Lovers’ Day
Did you know that tomorrow, January 20, is National Cheese Lovers’ Day? Although this “national holiday” may not be decreed by Congress or have much of a historical background, we know that many of you are Lovers’ of Cheese and always looking for a way to celebrate that love. So, let’s take a look at some fun facts and new cheesy things to try out in celebration!
Valentine’s Day- A Brief History
Valentine’s Day is one month away. And, just like that, the season of LOVE is upon us! The time of year that sprinkles chocolate like water, pays the overhead of florists and Hallmark for the whole year, pops construction paper cut outs of asymmetrical hearts with crayon I Love You’s in the windows of homes around America. But where does this tradition come from?
A 2021 Virtual Comment Card
Good Afternoon and a very happy weekend to you all! It’s a beautiful day in Ohio as we are seeing the sun for the first time in a while. Today, we would like to ask you what you would like to see from Shisler’s in this bright new year. Take a moment to comment on the blog, via email or on social media about your thoughts!
New Year’s Resolutions
Ok, ok….it’s the second week of the New Year. And by now a lot of folks out there are diving deep into their New Years’ Resolutions. Especially following that ten months of quarantine!
My sister and I occasionally joke about the “Quarantine 19.” I only wish we were actually joking. LOL. Well, Shisler’s Cheesehouse is not just all about the candy and cookies and cheese and meats. Well, not ALL about those scrumptious treats 🙂 We also offer plenty of skinny alternatives to satisfy your snack cravings while sticking to your resolves!
Set Intentions of Kindness for a Bright New Year!
We did it! 2020 is behind us and with it some valuable lessons to take forward into 2021. I believe firmly that the kindness we instill within ourselves allow us to be better to each other. So let’s take a look at some ways that we can move into this new year with “BE KIND” set as an intention by starting with ourselves.
Still Waiting for Your Order? Let us Know!
Good Day and Happy Holidays!
Tomorrow is Christmas Eve and we want to make sure that all of you have either received your tracking number and/or your Shisler’s shipment. We have had a record year of online snack orders and want to extend a huge thanks to all of you for your support and patience and to all of our “elves” for working round the clock to get orders fulfilled!
We FINALLY have ALL of the packages in the mail so we have a little time for some check ins with you before the holiday hits!
If you placed your order BEFORE the deadline for guaranteed delivery (Deember 13) and you have not received your order or a tracking number. Please email us so we can assist you with tracking down Santa Shisler.
We hope that you all have a VERY Merry Christmas and thank you for your ongoing support and love!
