Kinds Of Cheese At Subway

Decoding the Dairy: A Comprehensive Guide to Subway's Cheese Selection

Subway, the globally recognized fast-food chain, is known for its customizable sandwiches and salads. A key element of this customization lies in the choice of cheese. While seemingly simple, Subway's cheese selection offers a surprising range of flavor profiles and textures, each catering to different palates and preferences. This comprehensive guide delves into the various kinds of cheese available at Subway, exploring their characteristics, production methods, and suitability for different sandwich combinations. Understanding these nuances can elevate your Subway experience from a quick lunch to a truly personalized culinary adventure.

Introduction: The Cheese Spectrum at Subway

Subway's cheese options, while not exhaustive compared to a dedicated cheesemonger's selection, offer a diverse range to satisfy a variety of tastes. From the mild and creamy to the sharp and tangy, understanding the characteristics of each cheese allows for informed decision-making, maximizing the flavor potential of your Subway creation. This guide will explore the common cheese varieties, providing insights into their flavor profiles, textures, and ideal pairings with Subway's extensive menu of meats, vegetables, and sauces. We'll also address some frequently asked questions about Subway's cheese offerings.

Exploring the Key Players: Subway's Cheese Lineup

While the exact availability may vary slightly by location and season, Subway typically offers a selection of the following cheeses:

• American Cheese: This ubiquitous cheese is a staple at Subway. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor and smooth, melty texture make it a crowd-pleaser. It's a processed cheese, meaning it contains emulsifiers and other additives to enhance its melt and shelf life. This results in a consistent, predictable taste that complements many sandwich ingredients. It’s a fantastic option for those who prefer a less assertive cheese flavor that won't overpower other components of the sandwich.

• Cheddar Cheese: A classic choice, Cheddar cheese boasts a rich, savory taste and a firm, crumbly texture that ranges from mild to extra-sharp depending on its aging process. Subway's cheddar typically falls on the milder side, offering a good balance of flavor and texture. It pairs well with a variety of meats, from ham and turkey to roast beef and steak. The sharpness can cut through richer meats and compliment a variety of vegetable choices.

• Monterey Cheddar Cheese: Similar to regular cheddar, Monterey Cheddar offers a slightly milder flavor profile with a smoother, creamier texture. Its subtle tang makes it a versatile option that complements a wide range of sandwich ingredients without overpowering them. This cheese tends to melt beautifully, making it ideal for those who prefer a gooey, cheese-pull experience.

• Swiss Cheese: Known for its distinctive nutty flavor and characteristic eye-like holes, Swiss cheese offers a unique textural contrast. The holes are formed by the production process, where the cheese is created with various cultures and careful aging. Its mildness and slightly sweet taste make it a popular choice for those seeking a less intense cheese experience. It pairs particularly well with leaner meats and lighter sauces.

• Provolone Cheese: A semi-hard Italian cheese, provolone offers a slightly salty and nutty flavor with a smooth, firm texture. Its elasticity makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a cheese that stretches and pulls with each bite. Provolone is a superb choice for sandwiches that contain robust vegetables such as roasted red peppers, or a variety of Italian meats.

• Pepper Jack Cheese: This spicy cheese is a popular choice for those seeking a little kick. Pepper Jack's combination of creamy texture and a sharp, spicy flavor provides an exciting contrast. The pepper jack's bite enhances the overall sandwich flavor, making it suitable for sandwiches that need a zest of personality. It's a superb pairing with many of Subway’s bolder flavors, such as jalapenos or chipotle sauce.

Understanding Cheese Production: From Farm to Subway

While Subway doesn't produce its own cheese, understanding the basic principles of cheesemaking provides a deeper appreciation for the product. Cheese production involves several key steps:

1. Milk Selection: The type of milk used (cow, goat, sheep, etc.) significantly impacts the final cheese's flavor and texture. Subway's cheeses are typically made from cow's milk.

2. Coagulation: Rennet or other coagulants are added to the milk to separate the curds (solid) from the whey (liquid).

3. Curd Treatment: The curds are then treated in various ways, influencing the final cheese's texture (e.g., cutting, stirring, heating).

4. Salting: Salt is added to control moisture content, texture, and flavor.

5. Aging: Many cheeses are aged for varying periods, influencing flavor development and texture. The aging process is particularly important for developing the sharpness in cheeses like cheddar and the distinct nutty flavor in Swiss cheese.

6. Processing (for Processed Cheeses): Processed cheeses like American cheese undergo additional processing steps, involving the addition of emulsifiers and other additives to achieve a consistent melt and extend shelf life.

Cheese Pairings: Optimizing Your Subway Creation

The art of building the perfect Subway sandwich extends beyond the choice of bread and fillings; the cheese plays a crucial role in the overall flavor profile. Here are some suggestions for pairing Subway's cheeses with different sandwich options:

• American Cheese: Pairs well with almost anything, making it a versatile base for any sandwich. It works well with turkey, ham, roast beef, and chicken.

• Cheddar Cheese: Complements bolder meats like roast beef or steak, or lighter options such as turkey breast. It also pairs well with many vegetables.

• Monterey Cheddar: Excellent with grilled chicken or turkey, enhancing the overall creamy and savory experience.

• Swiss Cheese: A great choice for sandwiches with ham, turkey, or leaner meats. Its mildness prevents it from overwhelming delicate ingredients.

• Provolone Cheese: The ideal complement to Italian-style sandwiches with salami, pepperoni, or capicola.

• Pepper Jack Cheese: Adds a spicy kick to sandwiches with chicken, steak, or vegetables like jalapenos.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Subway cheese vegetarian?

A: Most Subway cheeses are vegetarian, but it's crucial to check with your local Subway regarding the specific cheeses used in their location and their production methods. Some cheeses may contain animal rennet.

Q: Are Subway's cheeses pasteurized?

A: Subway's cheeses are almost certainly pasteurized, a process that kills harmful bacteria, ensuring food safety. However, it is always recommended to inquire at your local store.

Q: Can I request extra cheese on my sandwich?

A: Yes, you can typically request extra cheese at Subway, though there may be a small extra charge.

Q: Does Subway offer any vegan cheese options?

A: Currently, Subway does not offer a standard vegan cheese option. However, this is changing in some regions, so it’s worth checking the menu where you live.

Q: What are the nutritional values of Subway's different cheeses?

A: Nutritional information for Subway's cheeses will vary depending on the specific cheese type and serving size. Check the Subway website or in-store nutritional information for the most accurate data.

Conclusion: Elevating Your Subway Experience Through Cheese Knowledge

Subway's cheese selection, while seemingly straightforward, offers a surprisingly rich landscape of flavors and textures. Understanding the characteristics of each cheese—from the mild American to the spicy Pepper Jack—empowers you to make informed choices, crafting a truly personalized and delicious sandwich experience. This guide aims to equip you with the knowledge necessary to navigate this dairy diversity and elevate your next Subway visit from a simple meal to a customized culinary adventure. By appreciating the subtle differences between these cheeses and considering their ideal pairings, you can unlock the full potential of your Subway sandwich and discover new favorites. Remember to always check with your local Subway for current cheese availability and to ask any questions about the ingredients that are important to you.