Are you a cheese lover who also enjoys the umami flavor of soy sauce?
If so, you may be wondering what types of cheese pair well with this savory condiment.
While it may seem like an unlikely combination, the rich and salty flavor of soy sauce can actually complement certain cheeses quite nicely.
In this article, we’ll explore some delicious cheese and soy sauce pairings that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
So grab a snack (maybe some potatoes or fusilli?) and read on to discover your new favorite flavor combination.
What Cheese Goes With Soy Sauce?
When it comes to pairing cheese with soy sauce, there are a few key factors to consider.
First and foremost, you’ll want to choose a cheese that can stand up to the strong flavor of soy sauce. Cheeses that are too mild or delicate may be overpowered by the salty, savory taste of the sauce.
On the other hand, cheeses that are too bold or pungent may clash with the flavor of soy sauce, creating an unpleasant taste experience.
With that in mind, here are some cheese and soy sauce pairings to try:
1. Gouda: This Dutch cheese has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the umami taste of soy sauce. Try dipping cubes of gouda into a small dish of soy sauce for a simple yet satisfying snack.
2. Blue cheese: If you’re a fan of bold flavors, blue cheese and soy sauce may be the perfect pairing for you. The sharp, tangy taste of blue cheese can balance out the saltiness of soy sauce, creating a complex and delicious flavor profile.
3. Cream cheese: While cream cheese may not be the first cheese that comes to mind when you think of soy sauce pairings, it can actually work quite well. Try mixing soy sauce and sesame seeds into softened cream cheese for a tasty spread that’s perfect on crackers or toast.
4. Parmesan: This hard Italian cheese has a salty, nutty flavor that can complement the savory taste of soy sauce. Try grating some parmesan over a dish that’s been seasoned with soy sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Why Cheese And Soy Sauce Make A Great Pair
Cheese and soy sauce may seem like an unlikely pairing, but they actually have a lot in common. Both ingredients have a strong umami flavor, which is often described as savory and satisfying. Umami is the fifth basic taste, alongside sweet, sour, bitter, and salty.
Soy sauce gets its umami taste from the fermentation process of soybeans and other ingredients like wheat and koji spores. Cheese, on the other hand, contains small amounts of high-quality protein, including amino acids like glutamate that contribute to its umami flavor.
When paired together, cheese and soy sauce can create a delicious and complex flavor profile. The salty, savory taste of soy sauce can balance out the richness of cheese, while the umami flavors of both ingredients enhance each other.
For example, dipping cubes of gouda into soy sauce can create a satisfying snack with a nutty, salty flavor. Blue cheese and soy sauce can create a bold and tangy taste experience that’s perfect for adventurous eaters. Mixing soy sauce and sesame seeds into cream cheese can create a creamy spread with a hint of umami flavor. And grating parmesan over a dish seasoned with soy sauce can add an extra layer of savory taste.
Soft Cheeses That Pair Well With Soy Sauce
Soft cheeses can also be a great option when it comes to pairing with soy sauce. Here are a few to consider:
1. Boursin: This French cheese is known for its creamy texture and herb-infused flavor. The mild yet tangy taste of Boursin can complement the salty notes of soy sauce quite well. Try spreading Boursin on crackers and topping with a drizzle of soy sauce for a delicious snack.
2. Goat cheese: With its tangy, slightly sour taste, goat cheese can be a great complement to the umami flavor of soy sauce. Try crumbling some goat cheese on top of a salad that’s been dressed with a soy sauce vinaigrette for a tasty and healthy lunch.
3. Ricotta: This Italian cheese is known for its light, fluffy texture and mild flavor. Ricotta can work well in both sweet and savory dishes that feature soy sauce. Try mixing ricotta with soy sauce and sesame oil for a tasty dip that’s perfect for veggies or crackers.
4. Feta: While feta is often associated with Mediterranean cuisine, it can also be a great option for pairing with soy sauce. The salty, tangy flavor of feta can balance out the savory notes of soy sauce quite nicely. Try crumbling feta over a dish that’s been seasoned with soy sauce and topped with fresh herbs for a delicious and easy meal.
Hard Cheeses That Complement Soy Sauce Flavors
When it comes to hard cheeses that complement soy sauce flavors, there are a few options to consider. Hard cheeses are typically aged, which means they have a stronger flavor and a firmer texture than softer cheeses.
One option is aged cheddar cheese. The sharp, tangy flavor of cheddar can stand up to the saltiness of soy sauce, creating a delicious balance of flavors. Another option is Parmesan cheese, which has a similar salty and nutty flavor profile. Grated Parmesan can be sprinkled over dishes that have been seasoned with soy sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Gouda is another hard cheese that can complement soy sauce flavors. With its nutty and slightly sweet taste, it can balance out the umami taste of soy sauce. Provolone is another option that has a similar flavor profile to Gouda.
Lastly, aged goat cheese can also be a good choice for pairing with soy sauce. With its tangy and slightly earthy flavor, it can add depth to the savory taste of soy sauce.
Blue Cheeses That Bring Out The Best In Soy Sauce
Blue cheese has a unique flavor and texture that can complement the rich, savory taste of soy sauce. Here are some blue cheese varieties that pair particularly well with soy sauce:
1. Roquefort: This French blue cheese has a strong, sharp flavor that can hold its own against the bold taste of soy sauce. Its creamy texture also provides a nice contrast to the liquid consistency of soy sauce.
2. Stilton: This British blue cheese is milder and creamier than Roquefort, but still has enough tanginess to stand up to soy sauce. Its nutty flavor can also add an extra dimension to dishes seasoned with soy sauce.
3. Gorgonzola: This Italian blue cheese has a slightly sweet taste that can balance out the saltiness of soy sauce. Its crumbly texture can also add a nice crunch to dishes that have been drizzled with soy sauce.
When using blue cheese in conjunction with soy sauce, it’s important to keep in mind the intensity of both flavors. Start with small amounts of both and adjust to taste as needed. Additionally, consider pairing blue cheese and soy sauce with complementary ingredients like nuts or fruit for a well-rounded flavor experience.
Tips For Pairing Cheese And Soy Sauce Perfectly
1. Consider the intensity of the cheese: When pairing cheese with soy sauce, it’s important to choose a cheese that can hold its own against the strong flavor of soy sauce. Cheeses that are too mild or delicate may be overpowered, while cheeses that are too bold may clash.
2. Experiment with different textures: Soy sauce has a smooth, liquid texture, so pairing it with a cheese that has a contrasting texture can create an interesting taste experience. Try pairing soy sauce with a crumbly cheese like feta or a creamy cheese like brie.
3. Think about the dish: The type of dish you’re serving can also influence which cheese will pair best with soy sauce. For example, if you’re serving sushi rolls with soy sauce for dipping, a mild cheese like mozzarella or ricotta may be a good choice. If you’re seasoning a stir-fry or noodle dish with soy sauce, a stronger cheese like cheddar or gouda may work better.
4. Consider other flavors in the dish: If your dish contains other strong flavors like garlic or ginger, you may want to choose a milder cheese to balance out the overall taste. Alternatively, if your dish is relatively simple and doesn’t have many competing flavors, you can choose a more assertive cheese to add depth and complexity.
5. Don’t be afraid to experiment: Ultimately, the best cheese and soy sauce pairing will depend on personal taste preferences. Don’t be afraid to try different combinations and see what works best for you. Whether you prefer a mild, creamy cheese or a bold, tangy one, there’s sure to be a soy sauce pairing that will satisfy your taste buds.
Delicious Recipes To Try With Cheese And Soy Sauce Pairings.
Now that you have some ideas for cheese and soy sauce pairings, let’s explore some delicious recipes that incorporate these flavors:
1. Soy-Glazed Gouda Bites: Cut gouda cheese into bite-sized cubes and brush with a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and garlic. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve as a party appetizer or snack.
2. Blue Cheese and Soy Sauce Dressing: Combine crumbled blue cheese, soy sauce, olive oil, and lemon juice in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Use as a dressing for salads or as a dip for vegetables.
3. Cream Cheese and Soy Sauce Dip: Mix softened cream cheese with soy sauce, sesame seeds, and chopped scallions. Serve with crackers or sliced vegetables for a tasty snack.
4. Parmesan and Soy Sauce Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, soy sauce, and grated parmesan cheese. Roast in the oven until tender and crispy. Serve as a side dish or appetizer.
These recipes are just a starting point – feel free to experiment with different cheeses and soy sauce combinations to find your perfect pairing. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or an impressive appetizer for your next party, these cheese and soy sauce recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
