Can cheese melt under hot water?

Yes, cheese can melt under hot water, but it's not the most ideal way to melt it. Here's why:

* Uneven Melting: Hot water tends to melt cheese unevenly, creating pockets of melted cheese surrounded by solid cheese.

* Watery Texture: The water will mix with the melted cheese, making it watery and less desirable for many applications.

* Loss of Flavor: The hot water can dilute the cheese's flavor.

Better Methods for Melting Cheese:

* Microwave: This is a quick and easy way to melt cheese, but be careful not to overheat it, as it can become rubbery.

* Stovetop: Melting cheese in a saucepan over low heat with a little bit of butter or cream is a great way to achieve a smooth, creamy melt.

* Oven: Baking cheese in the oven is a good option for melting cheese on top of dishes like pizzas or casseroles.

Using Hot Water for Cheese:

While not the best for melting, hot water can be used to:

* Soften hard cheeses: Soaking hard cheese in hot water can soften it, making it easier to grate or slice.

* Create cheese sauces: In some cases, hot water can be used to create a thin cheese sauce, but it's best to start with a cheese that melts easily, like cheddar.

Ultimately, the best way to melt cheese depends on your desired outcome and the type of cheese you are using.