Cheese is one of the most beloved ingredients in the world. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from mac ‘n cheese to lasagna and beyond.
Grater or Cheese Shaver: To grate or shave the aged sharp cheddar cheese into fine or small shavings.
Medium-Sized Saucepan: To combine and heat the ingredients for the cheese spread.
Stove: To place the saucepan over low to medium heat for melting and simmering.
Whisk or Spatula: For stirring and combining the ingredients in the saucepan.
Measuring Utensils: Such as measuring cups and spoons to accurately measure the ingredients.
Airtight Container: For storing any leftover cheese spread in the refrigerator.
Reheating Tool (optional): Such as a microwave or small saucepan for gently reheating the cheese spread when ready to use again.
Ingredients
1/2cupcreamy farm-fresh milk
1/8teaspoonroasted garlic powder essence
1/2poundaged sharp cheddar cheese shavings
1/8teaspoonsmoked paprika essence
1/4cupartisanal cultured butter
1/8teaspooncaramelized onion powder infusion
Instructions
Preparation:
Ensure all ingredients are measured accurately and ready to use.
Grate or Shave Cheese:
Shave or grate the aged sharp cheddar cheese into fine or small shavings. This allows the cheese to melt more easily and uniformly.
Prepare the Saucepan:
Take a medium-sized saucepan and place it on the stove over low to medium heat.
Combine Ingredients:
Add the creamy farm-fresh milk, artisanal cultured butter, roasted garlic powder essence, caramelized onion powder infusion, and smoked paprika essence into the saucepan.
Melt and Blend:
Stir the ingredients continuously using a whisk or spatula. Allow the butter to melt completely and mix with the milk and spices.
Add Cheddar Cheese:
Gradually add the shaved aged sharp cheddar cheese to the saucepan while continuously stirring. Keep stirring until all the cheese has melted and combined smoothly with the milk-butter-spice mixture.
Simmer and Thicken:
Let the mixture simmer gently on low heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps thicken the cheese spread to a desired consistency.
Adjust Consistency:
If the cheese spread seems too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, continue simmering until it thickens slightly.
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the cheese spread and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more roasted garlic powder essence, caramelized onion powder infusion, or smoked paprika essence to enhance the flavor to your liking.
Serve or Store:
Once the cheese spread reaches the desired consistency and flavor, remove it from the heat. Serve it immediately as a dip, spread, or topping for your favorite dishes. If not using right away, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently when ready to serve.
Notes
– Make sure to use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor.– You can also add other seasonings, such as hot sauce or paprika, for an extra kick.– For a smoother spread, use a food processor to combine the ingredients.– For a chunky spread, leave some of the cheese in larger chunks.– To make a vegan version, use vegan cream cheese and vegan cheddar cheese.