Smoked String Cheese

Pairings and Complementary Flavors:

Cocktails: Bloody Mary, Old Fashioned, Smoky Mezcal Margarita, Dark and Stormy
~ The savory elements in Bloody Mary are a delightful counterpart.
~ The smoky, slightly sweet profile of a classic bourbon Old Fashioned complements the smoked mozzarella’s creamy texture and smoky essence.
~ A smoky Mezcal Margarita’s smoky undertones make it a natural partner for this string cheese.
~ The spicy ginger beer in Dark and Stormy offers a nice complementary flavor.

Wine: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah
~ The citrusy notes in Sauvignon Blanc, known for its crisp acidity, cuts through the creaminess of the cheese.
~ With subtle fruit notes and a light, crisp nature, Pinot Grigio won’t overshadow the cheese but offers a refreshing contrast.
~ Chardonnay lends the right balance of fruitiness and acidity, making it a balanced companion for smoked mozzarella.
~ A light-bodied Pinot Noir, with red fruit character and earthy undertones, complements the smoky cheese.
~ At the same time, with its slightly spicy notes, a robust Syrah matches the cheese’s smokiness while adding complexity layers.

Beer: Pilsner, Amber Ale, Brown Ale, Porter, IPA
~ A crisp Pilsner cuts through the cheese’s creaminess while the subtle malt flavors harmonize with its smoky profile.
~ Amber Ale, with a balance of malt and hops and a touch of sweetness, complements the smoky and creamy notes, while the malty sweetness and subtle hop bitterness of Brown Ale create a harmonious match.
~ Porter complements the smoky mozzarella with its roasted malt profile and hints of chocolate and caramel.
~ An IPA offers a pleasant bitterness juxtaposed with the creaminess of the cheese.

Accompaniments: fruits, vegetables, honey, meats, olives
~ Apples, pears, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and fresh figs offer a sweet, crisp contrast. Add honey or balsamic reduction for a sweet or tangy contrast, respectively.
~ Salami, prosciutto, or smoked salmon amplify the smoky theme.
~ Cornichons, marinated artichokes, and green or Kalamata olives add a tangy element for contrast.

Suggested uses:

Makes an excellent protein-packed snack.

Slice and use in salads to provide an intriguing texture, smokiness, depth, and presentation.

Adds a smoky-tasting melt to wraps, sandwiches, omelets, burgers, or pizza.

Use it in meatballs or stuffed chicken for a delightful surprise.

Provides exceptional melt and pockets of smoky goodness in savory stuffed bread or pastries.