Buzz
I do enjoy a molecular approach from time to time, though I've always found foams a bit difficult to get fully behind. In my opinion, there aren't many dishes that really benefit from that particular texture. It turns out, however, that processed cheese is one of those rare exceptions.
A few weeks back, in a moment of whimsical madness, I ordered something described as “a playful take on a cheesesteak.” When it arrived, it was topped with what appeared to be gourmet Easy Cheese, and the self-disgust quickly began to settle in.
Then I took a bite and realized the lightly airy cheese was more than just a novelty. The whipped dairy was intensely savory and tangy, with a smooth, creamy texture I can only describe as 'impossibly fluffy.' 'I could recreate this at home,' I said to my dining companion. 'Cool,' he responded.
If you own a whipping siphon, crafting your own upscale Easy Cheese-like creation is not only possible but something you absolutely should try. All you need are your favorite processed cheese wedges—Laughing Cow works well, but I personally prefer Dubliner's—and heavy whipping cream.
Gourmet Processed Cheese Foam
Ingredients:
8 of your favorite processed cheese wedges, wrappers removed (naturally)
200 milliliters of heavy whipping cream
Equipment:
Whipping siphon (I use the 1-liter model. If you're working with the 500 milliliter version, just halve the ingredients.)
2 nitrous chargers for cream (Use only 1 if you're using the smaller siphon.)
Blend the cheese and cream together in a blender (or use an immersion blender) until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a whipping siphon. Attach the chargers, one at a time, then shake the siphon vigorously 15 times. Chill it in the fridge for 2-4 hours; the longer it rests, the more structure the foam will have. Use it like Easy Cheese, but with style. I won't judge you if you end up finishing the whole batch with crackers—which is exactly what I did—but it also makes a fantastic sauce for roasted broccoli or crispy fried potatoes. Could you squirt it directly into your mouth, like whipped cream from a can? Absolutely. Yes, you could, and I would never dream of stopping you.
