Introduction
Cheese is one of the most beloved ingredients in the kitchen. Whether you’re making a grilled cheese sandwich, a pizza, or a baked mac and cheese dish, cheese is often the star of the show. Melting cheese is one of the most important steps when cooking with cheese, and it can be tricky to do if you don’t have the right tools. Thankfully, it’s fairly easy to melt cheese on the stovetop with a few simple steps.
Choosing The Right Cheese
Before you start melting cheese on the stove, you need to make sure you have the right type of cheese. Not all cheeses are suitable for melting on the stove. Harder, aged cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan won’t melt as easily as softer, younger cheeses like mozzarella and brie. Choose a cheese that’s known for its smooth, creamy texture when melted, like Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere.
Preparing The Cheese
Once you’ve chosen the right cheese, you need to prepare it for melting. Start by cutting it into small cubes or shreds, so it will melt faster and more evenly. If you’re dealing with a soft cheese like brie, you can simply slice it into thin pieces. You can also grate the cheese, if you prefer.
Melting The Cheese On The Stove
Now that your cheese is ready, you can start the melting process. Begin by heating a small saucepan over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter or oil to the pan, then add the cheese. Stir the cheese constantly as it melts, using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon. As the cheese melts, it will become smoother and creamier.
Adding Liquids To The Cheese
If you’re making a cheese sauce, you may want to add a liquid to the cheese to thin it out. You can add milk, cream, or even beer to the cheese as it melts. Start by adding a few tablespoons of liquid at a time, stirring until the cheese is fully incorporated. If the cheese is still too thick, add more liquid until you reach the desired consistency.
Flavoring The Cheese
Once your cheese is melted, you can add flavorings to it. Try adding a pinch of salt, pepper, or herbs to the cheese. You can also add garlic, onion, or Worcestershire sauce. Experiment with different flavors until you find the combination that you like best.
Finishing The Cheese
When your cheese is melted and flavored, you’re ready to finish it. If you’re making a cheese sauce, you can pour it over whatever dish you’re making. If you’re making a grilled cheese sandwich, you can spread the cheese over the bread and cook it until it’s golden brown.