What is the type of cheese in "chips and cheese" UK fast-food? (with photos)

Question

I went to England a few years ago for a couple months. I took pictures of a fast-food dish, "chips and cheese" that is uncommon where I live. More than that, the taste of the cheese intrigued me. The pictures were took in Stafford in case regional culture matters for the answer.

I've tried to replicate the taste once in a while, but I don't know what cheese is being used. Internet research points towards cheddar as the most likely match, however every time I gave it a try the taste did not seem to be it. Therefore I've tried to sprinkle various other types of cheese to no avail.

Based on the cultural details above and the provided picture, what would be the type of cheese?

If it is cheddar, is there a "specific type" of cheddar I would have to look for that would taste similarly when used in cooked dishes?

GdD · Accepted Answer

The cheese you saw was, if it was real cheese at all, probably cheddar or just plain white cheese. Whatever they put on was not high-quality stuff - takeaways are not known for lavishing money on ingredients.

Whether you will be able to get anything similar depends on where you are. American and British cheddars have different flavors, so if I was in the US I'd try Monterey Jack, or maybe Provelone.

Dean · Answer

Its more than likely what they call 'Pizza Cheese' which is a mix of mozzarella and mild chedder.

jim · Answer

The majority of fast food take-away restaurants buy their grated cheese in bulk from suppliers. The majority of the cheese is a 70%/30% mix of mozzarella and cheddar. I know because I've worked in the industry for a long time.

Answered by jim on December 30, 2020

Jeff · Answer

I first started eating chips and cheese 32 years ago. I frequented a pub for lunch and always ordered scampi and fries with a side salad. The cheese was more often a mild cheddar, although sometimes a Red Leicester was used. To me, it did not matter what cheese was used as I wanted cheese.

These days it is mostly mozzarella in takeaways, however, to me it's not my preferred choice as it's too mild and bland. I much prefer to taste the actual cheese.

From a Brit · Answer

It's halloumi cheese. Personally as a Brit never heard of it until it was mentioned on a meeting today. It's supposedly a salty type of cheese with a lot of protein and is typically used in Cyprus. Can be bought from any Eastern European store of from Wegmans/Wholefoods.

Answered by From a Brit on December 30, 2020

What is the type of cheese in "chips and cheese" UK fast-food? (with photos)

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