Patrick Oconnell
The grilled cheese sandwich is a timeless classic, but how should you cut it? This is a highly debated topic, with some people preferring to cut their sandwiches diagonally, and others preferring to cut straight down the middle. Some argue that cutting diagonally creates the illusion of having less crust, and makes the sandwich look more aesthetically pleasing. However, others argue that cutting straight down the middle preserves the structural integrity of the sandwich, and prevents the cheese from escaping.
How to cut a grilled cheese sandwich
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cut type | Diagonal or horizontal |
| Crust | Crust is preserved in diagonal cuts |
| Ingredients | Horizontal cuts keep ingredients intact |
| Cheese | Horizontal cuts prevent cheese from escaping |
| Ease of eating | Horizontal cuts are easier to eat |
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What You'll Learn
Horizontal vs diagonal slicing
The "right" way to cut a grilled cheese sandwich is a contentious topic. Some people prefer to cut their sandwiches horizontally, while others insist on a diagonal cut.
Those who prefer a horizontal cut often prioritise the structural integrity of the sandwich and the ability to pull apart the two halves and stretch the bridge of melted cheese without crushing or smushing out the cheese. A horizontal cut also requires a shorter cut, which can help to keep the ingredients inside intact. This is especially important for a grilled cheese sandwich, where you want to minimise the amount of cheese that escapes during the cutting process.
On the other hand, proponents of the diagonal cut argue that it creates a better presentation, with the two triangular halves providing a pleasing visual of the ingredients inside. The diagonal cut also creates optimal eating angles, allowing you to start from each corner and work your way in. Additionally, the triangle exposes the longest surface area without the crust, giving the illusion of less crust overall. This is especially appealing to those who are not fans of the crust.
In the end, the decision of whether to cut a grilled cheese sandwich horizontally or diagonally comes down to personal preference. Some people may prefer the practicality and structural integrity of a horizontal cut, while others may favour the visual appeal and reduced crust exposure of a diagonal cut. Ultimately, the most important factor is that the sandwich tastes delicious, regardless of how it is sliced.
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Crust-cutting
If you're not a fan of crusts, cutting your grilled cheese sandwich on a diagonal is the way to go. This creates the illusion of having less crust by exposing one long, crustless part along the slice. Although there is no actual difference in the amount of crust on the sandwich, the anti-crust crowd often prefers the look of these sandwich triangles. This method also provides a better visual of the ingredients inside the sandwich and creates optimal eating angles, allowing you to start from each corner and work your way in.
However, some people prefer to cut their grilled cheese sandwich horizontally, straight down the middle, to create two rectangles. This method minimises the surface area of the cut, reducing the chances of delicate ingredients like lettuce, tomato, or avocado, and condiments from sliding out. It also means less cheese is likely to be crushed or smushed out during the cutting process, preserving the structural integrity of the sandwich.
If you're looking to reduce crusts with a horizontal cut, you can try trimming the crusts off the sandwich before cutting it in half. This way, you'll have a rectangular sandwich with no crusts, similar to the classic finger sandwiches served at tea parties or children's birthday parties.
Another option is to cut the sandwich diagonally but focus on creating longer, thinner triangles. By slicing the sandwich at a sharper angle, you can expose more of the crustless hypotenuse, giving the impression of less crust overall. This technique is especially useful if you want to present the sandwich in a way that looks like it has less crust.
Remember, the key to a great grilled cheese sandwich is a combination of butter and mayonnaise spread on soft yet sturdy bread, filled with a cheese that has excellent meltability, such as American, cheddar, gouda, havarti, or mozzarella. Whether you choose to cut it diagonally or horizontally, the debate over the "correct" way to cut a grilled cheese sandwich ultimately comes down to personal preference and the amount of crust you're willing to tolerate.
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Optimal eating angles
The optimal eating angle for a grilled cheese sandwich is a contentious topic. Some people prefer to cut their sandwiches diagonally, resulting in two triangular halves. This method has several advantages. Firstly, it exposes the longest surface area with no crust, which is ideal for those who are not fond of crusts. Secondly, it provides a better visual presentation of the ingredients inside the sandwich. Finally, it creates optimal eating angles, allowing you to start from each corner and work your way in.
On the other hand, some people prefer to cut their grilled cheese sandwiches horizontally, straight down the middle, resulting in two rectangular halves. This method is favoured by those who want to preserve the structural integrity of the sandwich and prevent the ingredients from sliding out. A horizontal cut is also said to be better for a grilled cheese sandwich as it means less cheese is likely to be crushed or smushed out during the cutting process.
Those who prefer diagonal cuts argue that it makes the sandwich taste better and creates a more satisfying eating experience. However, others argue that cutting a grilled cheese sandwich diagonally can make it harder to eat, with cheese getting everywhere and creating more mess.
Ultimately, the optimal eating angle for a grilled cheese sandwich comes down to personal preference. While some prefer the aesthetic and eating experience of a diagonal cut, others prioritise practicality and structural integrity with a horizontal cut.
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Cheese leakage
The cheese leakage is a common problem when making grilled cheese sandwiches. Here are some tips to prevent this issue and ensure your sandwich stays intact:
When preparing the sandwich, it is important to use the right amount of cheese. Too little cheese will make your sandwich dry, but too much cheese can lead to leakage. The key is to find the perfect balance, creating a harmonious cheese-to-bread ratio. For pre-sliced American cheese, three slices are usually sufficient. However, if you're using shredded cheese, it can be a bit trickier. Aim for 2 to 3 ounces of cheese, or about 1/4 to 1/3 cup. This measurement applies to both sliced and shredded cheese, and you can always adjust it slightly higher if you're a cheese lover!
Another way to prevent cheese leakage is to seal the edges of your sandwich. After grilling your sandwich and achieving that perfect golden-brown colour, let it rest for a few minutes. Then, using a pan, add a bit more butter or oil to the edges of the sandwich and brown them quickly. This extra step will create a barrier, preventing the cheese from oozing out and keeping it melted inside. It also adds a crispy texture to the edges, enhancing the overall sensory experience of your grilled cheese masterpiece.
The type of bread you use also plays a crucial role in preventing cheese leakage. Opt for bread that is soft yet sturdy, with a thickness of around 1/2 inch. Thinner or more delicate breads may not be able to withstand the weight of the cheese and could fall apart. Recommended options include whole wheat, rye, potato bread, brioche, or even a brioche loaf. Sourdough is also an excellent choice, adding a unique flavour and texture to your sandwich.
Lastly, the cooking technique you use can impact cheese leakage. Instead of using a sandwich press or toastie maker, try cooking your grilled cheese in a skillet, griddle, or pan. This allows for better control over the melting process and reduces the pressure on the bread, minimising the chances of cheese escaping. Cooking your sandwich in a larger pan over low heat can also help achieve perfectly melted cheese without the risk of leakage.
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Bread type
When it comes to the bread type for a grilled cheese sandwich, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the bread should be soft yet sturdy, with a thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures that it can withstand the grilling process without falling apart. White sandwich bread is a classic choice for this reason, as it tends to be soft and tender while still holding up to the weight of the cheese and other ingredients. However, other types of bread can also be used, such as whole wheat, rye, potato bread, or even a brioche loaf. These options provide a heartier flavor and texture that can complement the grilled cheese sandwich.
Another factor to consider is the crust. Some people prefer to avoid the crust altogether, while others may not mind it. If you're not a fan of the crust, consider using a softer bread with a thinner crust, or trim the crusts before assembling the sandwich. Alternatively, you can cut the sandwich diagonally, which creates the illusion of having less crust. This is because the diagonal cut exposes a longer surface area without the crust, making the sandwich visually more appealing to those who are not crust enthusiasts.
The shape of the bread is also worth considering. While square or rectangular slices are common, you can also experiment with different shapes. For example, using a cookie cutter to create fun shapes out of the bread before grilling can add a playful touch to your sandwich. This is especially great for kids or when you want to add a unique presentation element to your grilled cheese.
Lastly, the bread's texture plays a crucial role in the overall experience of the sandwich. A crispy exterior is highly desirable in a grilled cheese sandwich. To achieve this, a combination of butter and mayonnaise spread on the bread before grilling can create a delicate, crispy bite that complements the gooey, melted cheese inside. This technique works well with both salted and unsalted butter, depending on your preference for added flavor.
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Frequently asked questions
There are differing opinions on the best way to cut a grilled cheese sandwich. Some people prefer to cut it horizontally to avoid crushing the cheese and to keep the structural integrity of the sandwich intact. Others prefer to cut it diagonally to create the illusion of having less crust and to make the sandwich look more pleasing.
Cutting a grilled cheese sandwich diagonally creates the illusion of having less crust and makes the sandwich look more aesthetically pleasing. It also provides a better visual of the ingredients inside the sandwich and creates optimal eating angles.
Cutting a grilled cheese sandwich horizontally helps to keep the cheese intact and prevents it from crushing or smushing out. It also allows for the structural integrity of the sandwich to be maintained.
