Andy Montoya
Grilled cheese is a classic sandwich with a variety of potential ingredients and recipes. While the traditional grilled cheese uses butter, some recipes suggest using mayonnaise to achieve a crispier crust and a golden exterior. This article will explore the benefits of using mayonnaise in grilled cheese sandwiches and provide insights into different recipes and serving suggestions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of food | Sandwich |
| Main ingredients | Bread, cheese, mayonnaise |
| Optional ingredients | Butter, pepper Jack cheese, American cheese, cheddar, deli meat |
| Functions of mayonnaise | Adds flavour, creates a crisp exterior, prevents burning |
| Functions of butter | Adds flavour |
| Preparation method | Spread mayonnaise on bread, add cheese, cook in skillet |
| Preparation time | 5 minutes |
| Cooking time | 4-6 minutes |
| Calories | 553 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 26 g |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Fat | 41 g |
| Fibre | 3 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
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What You'll Learn
Mayo grilled cheese: a delicious twist
Grilled cheese is a classic sandwich that's easy to make and perfect for any meal. But if you're looking for a twist on the traditional, try using mayonnaise instead of butter. Mayo grilled cheese is a delicious and crispy alternative that will leave you craving more.
The secret to the perfect grilled cheese is a crispy crust and gooey, melted cheese. While butter is the traditional choice for frying up a grilled cheese, mayonnaise can be used to create a crispier and more flavourful sandwich. Mayo grilled cheese is a simple twist on the classic that can be made in just a few minutes with three ingredients: bread, cheese, and mayonnaise.
To make mayo grilled cheese, simply spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread. You can use any type of bread you have on hand, from white or wheat sandwich bread to sourdough, Texas toast, or even pretzel bread. Then, assemble the sandwich by adding your favourite cheese to one slice of bread and topping it with the other slice, mayonnaise-side up. For the cheese, you can use classic American cheese, gouda, gruyere, Swiss, or get creative with pimento cheese or whipped goat cheese.
Once your sandwich is assembled, heat a skillet over medium heat and place the sandwich in. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. The mayonnaise will help create a crispy, golden crust without burning, thanks to its higher smoke point. Serve your mayo grilled cheese immediately for the best experience.
So, if you're looking for a delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese, give mayo grilled cheese a try! It's a simple hack that will take your grilled cheese to the next level, with a crispy crust and amazing flavour.
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Mayo vs butter
Mayonnaise and butter are two popular choices for grilled cheese sandwiches. While some people prefer the traditional butter option, others are open to trying mayonnaise for a change.
Taste
Some people prefer the taste of butter over mayonnaise. Butter has a creamy, nutty fragrance and flavour, which some people associate with the classic grilled cheese sandwich. On the other hand, mayonnaise has a more neutral flavour profile, which may be preferable to those who want the cheese and other fillings to be the star of the show. Some people also find mayonnaise to be tangy, which can be off-putting to those who prefer the more familiar taste of butter.
Texture
Butter and mayonnaise also differ in the texture they impart to the sandwich. Mayonnaise, being oil-based, has a higher smoke point than butter, which means it can withstand higher temperatures without burning. This results in a crispier sandwich with a golden-brown crust. Butter, on the other hand, can burn more easily, but it still provides a nice, even browning to the sandwich. When used together, the combination of butter and mayonnaise can result in a crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior.
Convenience
Mayonnaise is also more convenient to use than butter as it is already soft and spreadable straight out of the fridge. Butter, on the other hand, may need to be softened or melted before use, adding an extra step to the sandwich-making process.
Celebrity Endorsements
The debate over mayonnaise vs butter has even divided celebrities. Joanna Gaines, Antoni Porowski, and Martha Stewart are all proponents of using mayonnaise in their grilled cheese sandwiches. On the other hand, some people, known as "grilled cheese purists", strongly prefer butter and cannot fathom using anything else.
Ultimately, the choice between mayonnaise and butter comes down to personal preference. While mayonnaise may provide a crispier, more convenient option, butter offers a traditional flavour and fragrance that some find irreplaceable. Combining the two can also be a great way to get the best of both worlds.
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Mayo's higher smoke point
Mayonnaise is an excellent alternative to butter when making grilled cheese sandwiches. It adds a tangy flavour and creates a crisp exterior. Unlike butter, which burns quickly, mayonnaise is an oil-based fat with a higher smoke point. This means that it can withstand higher temperatures without burning, allowing you to achieve a golden brown exterior without the risk of burning your bread.
Smoke point refers to the temperature at which a cooking fat, such as butter, lard, or oil, starts to smoke. When an oil reaches its smoke point, it stops shimmering and begins to emit smoke. This is an indication that the fat is breaking down and releasing free radicals and acrolein, the chemical responsible for the acrid flavour and aroma of burnt food. Therefore, it is generally recommended to remove the oil from the heat before it reaches its smoke point to prevent food from burning and developing unpleasant flavours.
The smoke point of a fat depends on its composition and the refinement processes used during manufacturing. Industrial-level refinement processes such as bleaching, filtering, and high-temperature heating can increase the smoke point of an oil, resulting in a neutral-flavoured oil with a longer shelf life. Clarified butter, or ghee, is produced by removing milk solids to increase its smoke point.
Mayonnaise has a higher smoke point than butter due to its oil-based composition. It is an emulsion of egg yolks and oil, which gives it a higher heat resistance. This makes it ideal for achieving a crispy, golden crust on grilled cheese sandwiches without the risk of burning.
However, it is important to note that the egg component in mayonnaise may burn at lower temperatures than the smoke point. Reduced-fat mayonnaise, in particular, may contain a significant amount of water and stabilizers, which can impede browning and affect the searing process. Therefore, it is recommended to use regular mayonnaise with a higher fat content for optimal results when searing or grilling.
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Mayo's role in frying and flavouring
Mayonnaise, or "mayo", is a versatile sauce with a rich and tangy taste that is commonly used in a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, hamburgers, salads, and French fries. It is also used as a base for other sauces such as tartar sauce, fry sauce, and ranch dressing. In grilled cheese sandwiches, mayo is used as a replacement for butter or in combination with butter to create a golden, delectable crunch. The higher smoke point of mayonnaise, due to its oil and
Mayo is also used in frying and flavouring meat and vegetables. When used as a marinade or coating, it helps to keep the food juicy, and its oil-based composition allows for a crispier crust. It acts as a binding agent for seasonings, creating a paste that helps to retain moisture and flavour in the food. This technique is especially recommended for chicken and pork cutlets, enhancing their taste and texture.
Additionally, mayonnaise can be used as a replacement for egg wash when breading food. It disperses and binds with the seasonings, creating a uniform coating that forms a crust during cooking. This technique is suggested by chef Scott Schroeder, who uses mayo to enhance the flavour and texture of his dishes.
Mayo is also a versatile base for creating flavoured sauces. It can be combined with various ingredients such as fresh herbs, chipotle, Sriracha, or curry powder to make unique sauces. For instance, adding roasted garlic cloves to the mixture creates roasted garlic mayonnaise, enhancing the flavour profile of the dish.
In summary, mayonnaise plays a significant role in frying and flavouring various dishes. It is used as a coating for meat and vegetables, a replacement for egg wash, and a base for creating unique sauces. Its high smoke point, binding properties, and flavour-enhancing capabilities make it a valuable ingredient in the kitchen.
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Mayo grilled cheese with tomato soup
Grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup are a classic combination. The simple meal is a childhood favourite and a comfort food for many. While the traditional grilled cheese sandwich is made with butter, using mayonnaise instead can add a tangy taste and create a crispier exterior.
To make a grilled cheese sandwich with mayonnaise, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of each of two slices of bread. You can also add a little oregano or basil pesto on top of the mayonnaise. Next, sprinkle some cheese—such as American, cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper Jack—on one of the slices. If you want to add some spice, use pepper Jack cheese. You can also add sliced tomatoes to your sandwich for a more summery feel. Then, place the second slice of bread on top, with the mayonnaise-side up.
Warm a skillet over medium heat and add some butter. Once it melts, place the sandwich in the skillet, with the mayonnaise side down. If you're making a tomato soup to go with your sandwich, you can cook the onions, garlic, and basil in the same skillet before adding the tomatoes. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook until the underside is golden brown. Flip the sandwich, add more butter, and cook until the other side is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
To make a quick tomato soup to go with your grilled cheese, start by cooking some onions, garlic, and basil in a pot with a little olive oil or butter until they are soft and translucent. Then, add some roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar, and stir to combine. Pour in some stock or broth, bring the mixture to a boil, and cook until all the ingredients are soft. Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Season with salt and pepper, add some cream, and bring the soup back up to a simmer. Serve hot with the grilled cheese sandwich.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, grilled cheese can have mayo. It is used as a replacement for butter and is spread on the outside of the bread.
Mayo helps create a crispier crust and adds flavour to the sandwich. It also has a higher smoke point than butter, which means you are less likely to burn your bread.
It is recommended to use full-fat mayonnaise as it yields a better flavour and crust. It is also advised to avoid vegan mayo. You can also use flavoured mayonnaise, such as garlic aioli, bacon aioli, pesto aioli, or truffle aioli.
Classic American cheese, gouda, gruyere, Swiss, or mild cheddar are all popular choices. However, you can also get creative and use different types of cheese, such as Boursin Cheese, Pimento Cheese, or Whipped Goat Cheese.
You can add some spices like mustard and pickled jalapeños for a kick of flavour. You can also add some protein with deli meats such as ham, turkey, salami, or bacon.
