Cheese

Cheese

Dairy Good year-round
Used in 24 of 45 cuisines (53%)

The creamy canvas upon which flavors are layered and elevated.

Creamy with a wide range of flavors, from nutty to sharp; cheese captivates the palate with its rich textures and aromas. Its versatility allows it to shine in numerous culinary applications.

Where it comes from

Cheese-making dates back over 7,000 years, with ancient origins in Mesopotamia. Different cultures have developed their unique cheese varieties, reflecting regional tastes and traditions.

In the kitchen

Cheese adds depth and complexity to dishes, whether melted over pasta, crumbled in salads, or served as a centerpiece on cheese boards.

Nutrition (per 100g)

402kcalCal
25.0gProtein
33.0gFat
1.3gCarbs
0.0gFiber

Values are AI-estimated, not from a laboratory database

Pairs well with

Egg
Egg
Fold shredded cheese into eggs off-heat. The residual warmth melts it into gooey richness.
Bread
Bread
Melt cheese over bread under a broiler. The heat softens the bread and crisps the edges, while the cheese turns bubbly and golden.
Tomato
Tomato
Melt cheese over fresh tomatoes. The heat softens both, blending creamy and tangy. A sprinkle of salt lifts the flavors.
Basil
Basil
Tear fresh basil over warm cheese. The heat releases basil's oils, adding a peppery lift to the creamy base.
pickles
pickles
Sharp cheese meets the tang of pickles, cutting through richness. Stack in a sandwich for a crunchy, creamy bite.
Nuts
Nuts
Toast nuts and sprinkle over cheese. The nutty crunch complements the creamy, savory cheese, adding depth and texture.
puff pastry
puff pastry
Bake cheese between layers for a savory bite. Melts into pastry, adding richness without overpowering.
Pastry
Pastry
Bake pastry with cheese until melted. The rich, savory cheese melds with the flaky crust for a satisfying bite.
Bread rolls
Bread rolls
Melt cheese on warm rolls. The heat softens the cheese, creating a gooey, savory blanket.
Beer
Beer
Melt cheese with a splash of beer. The beer's tang cuts through the richness, lifting the creamy texture.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower
Roast or bake, cheese melts into creamy, savory layers over cauliflower's mild base. A broil at the end for a golden crust.
Grape
Grape
Pair fresh grapes with cheese. The juicy sweetness cuts through the creaminess, creating a refreshing contrast.
Tortilla
Tortilla
Melt cheese over a tortilla on medium heat. The cheese bubbles and crisps, adding a savory depth to the soft wrap.
crusty bread
crusty bread
Melt cheese over bread under broiler. The cheese's creaminess and saltiness contrast with the crust's crunch.
maize meal
maize meal
Stir in grated cheese while the maize meal is hot. The heat melts the cheese into creamy pockets, adding depth and richness.

Seen in these dishes