Cheddar

Concepts

Want to showcase Cheddar on your menu? Serve up something sensational with these innovative concepts.

Cracker Barrel Cheddar, Bacon & Poached Pear Sandwich

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

For the Poached Pear

5–6 cups Water
½ cup Granulated sugar
1 Cinnamon stick
2 Whole star anise
1 tbsp. Fresh ginger, peeled & thinly sliced
¼ tsp. Ground allspice
¼ tsp. Ground nutmeg
4 Bosc pears (ripe but firm), peeled, cut in half & cored
  Peel from 1 small lemon
   

For the Cranberry Aioli

1 cup Mayonnaise
¼ cup Dried cranberries, hydrated in orange juice
   

For the Sandwiches

8 Whole grain bread slices
8 Applewood smoked bacon slices, cooked until crispy
8 Cracker Barrel Sharp Cheddar Slices
  Arugula
  Salted butter, room temp
   

METHOD

  1. In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, spices, and lemon peel. Bring to a boil, then turn down to a simmer.
     
  2. Add prepped pears to poaching liquid and let poach until knife can be inserted easily, about 45 minutes. Remove pears, let cool, then slice into ¼-inch slices.
     
  3. In food processor, combine mayonnaise and hydrated cranberries until mostly smooth.
     
  4. Sandwiches: Spread a few tablespoons of cranberry aioli on 4 slices of bread, followed by bacon, then 2 Cheddar slices, pear slices, and arugula. Spread a few more tablespoons on each top piece of bread and top the sandwich.
     
  5. Spread softened butter on both pieces of bread, then pan fry until golden brown on both sides.
     

Pairings

  • Wine & Spirits
  • Beer
  • Proteins
  • Fruits & Vegetables
  • Nuts, Grains & Starches
  • Flavors, Spices & Condiments