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For the Love of the Grilled Cheese Sandwich

classic cheddar grilled cheese
photo and styling by sam henderson

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic comfort food that many people enjoy. While the ingredients for a grilled cheese sandwich are simple, such as bread, cheese, and butter, the type of bread used can make a significant difference in the overall taste and texture of the sandwich. Sourdough bread, in particular, can take a grilled cheese sandwich to the next level. Vary the cheese and add a little meat to take it over the top.

Sourdough bread is made using a naturally occurring yeast and bacteria culture, which gives it a distinct tangy flavor and chewy texture. When used for a grilled cheese sandwich, the sourdough bread provides a complex flavor profile that complements the gooey melted cheese. The tanginess of the bread adds a delicious contrast to the richness of the cheese and butter, creating a well-balanced flavor experience.
 
Furthermore, the texture of sourdough bread makes it an excellent choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. The chewiness of the bread allows it to hold up to the heat of the grill, ensuring that the sandwich remains crispy and crunchy on the outside while gooey and melted on the inside.
 
In addition to its flavor and texture, sourdough bread is also a healthier option for a grilled cheese sandwich. Sourdough bread has a lower glycemic index than other types of bread, meaning that it causes a slower and steadier rise in blood sugar levels. This can help prevent energy crashes and hunger pangs, making it a more satisfying meal option.

GRILLED CHEESE BASICS

Before you start:

These are just a few options to get you started. Let your creativity flow.
The main ingredients should include bread (you already know sourdough is our weapon of choice), unsalted butter, melty cheese. After that, the sky is the limit.
The heat matters. Medium-low to medium is sufficient. You want the bread to toast slowly enough that the cheese gets quite gooey.
The butter is important, but it’s not the main character. Add just a thin layer and ensure that it covers the entire surface to be grilled.
Quality ingredients yield quality results. This is especially true regarding cheese.

The Method:

  1. Lightly coat two slices of bread on one side with unsalted butter.
  2. Gather cheese and any other ingredients to be placed inside.
  3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low to medium heat.
  4. Place one slice, butter side down in the skillet. Immediatelyu build the sandwich: cheese, any other fillings, cheese, bread slice with butter side facing up.
  5. Cook for 3-4 minutes, checking the bottom for desired browning. Turn the sandwich over and cook until browned.
  6. Cool slightly before serving.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Classic Cheddar

classic cheddar grilled cheese
Is there anything better than classic cheddar grilled cheese and tomato soup?
Nothing fancy here… just really good, sharp cheddar on tangy sourdough. This might be the most perfect comfort food.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Gruyère, Ham, and Thyme

ham, thyme and gruyere grilled cheese

The creaminess of the Gruyère with the ham and texture of the bread is just fantastic. We recommend finding old-fashioned, slow-cooked ham versus the common pressed meat. The center of this sandwich is loaded with fresh thyme leaves. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Gouda and Salami

salami and gouda grilled cheese
The flavor profile of gouda is light enough that it works really well with power-packed salami. While this could work with provolone, it’s important to note that the salami is quite salty. A creamier, less salty cheese is the way to go here.

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