Kamil Perry
Grilled cheese, also known as a toasted sandwich, cheese toastie, or jaffle, is a hot sandwich made by melting cheese between slices of bread. While the sandwich is usually pan-fried, it can also be made on a frying pan, griddle, or sandwich toaster. The cheese is typically a melty variety, such as American, cheddar, pepper jack, or gruyère, and the bread can be anything from sourdough to brioche. Grilled cheese sandwiches are a common dish in many households, with each family having their own unique recipes and preferences. In Portland, Oregon, The Grilled Cheese Grill restaurants serve gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches from reclaimed vehicles and food carts, while The Grilled Cheese Truck is an American food truck company offering similar fare. For those looking to purchase grilling cheese, options include the Juusto brand in the Midwest and the Aphrodite Halloumi cheese from Whole Foods.
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What You'll Learn
Grilled cheese sandwiches
There are a few ways to achieve the perfect grilled cheese. Some people swear by using fancy, crusty bread, but in reality, any bread will do. The same goes for the cheese: while some have their favourites, such as provolone, or cheddar, any melting cheese will work. The key is in the cooking method.
One way to ensure a crispy sandwich is to use butter. Some people like to spread butter on the outside of the sandwich before toasting, while others prefer to melt butter in the pan and then quickly flip the sandwich so that all sides are coated. Either way, the sandwich should be cooked slowly so that the cheese melts in synchronicity with the bread toasting.
Another method for achieving the perfect grilled cheese is to cook the sandwiches on a sheet pan in the oven. This is a great way to feed a crowd, as multiple sandwiches can be cooked at once, and they will all be ready at the same time. Simply spread butter on one side of each slice of bread, and place buttered-side down on a baking sheet. Top with cheese and your desired toppings—such as sliced roasted red peppers, pickles, sliced ham, sliced turkey, sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, sliced red onion, or pulled pork—and another slice of cheese, and then the remaining bread, and spread butter on top. Place another baking sheet on top of the sandwiches and press down, then bake until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown and crispy.
One thing to be aware of when making grilled cheese sandwiches is that they should not be placed directly on a plate after cooking, or condensation will build up and turn the bread soggy. Instead, they should be placed on a wire rack or elevated in some other way, so that air can circulate and steam can escape.
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Grilled cheese in the UK
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a popular and beloved dish in the UK, often referred to as "toasties" or "toasted cheese sandwiches". They are typically made by melting cheese between slices of bread using a sandwich toaster, frying pan, griddle, or skillet. While the sandwich is called "grilled cheese", it is rarely prepared through grilling and is more commonly pan-fried. This method of preparation ensures that the bread achieves a golden, buttery crust without becoming too squished, as it might in a sandwich press.
In the UK, grilled cheese sandwiches are a quick and convenient meal that can be easily made at home. They are also offered at various restaurants and food establishments, ranging from casual eateries to gourmet food trucks. The dish is highly customizable, with different types of cheese, bread, and additional ingredients that can be used to suit individual tastes and preferences.
A classic grilled cheese sandwich typically consists of cheddar or American cheese, although other melting cheeses such as mozzarella, gruyere, or Cheshire cheese are also popular choices. The bread is often buttered on both sides before being placed in the pan, adding to the flavour and texture of the sandwich. Some recipes recommend using mayonnaise instead of butter, or even combining the two for a richer flavour.
Grilled cheese sandwiches can also be made more indulgent with additional ingredients. For example, sliced jalapeños, grilled chicken, and cream cheese spread can be added to create a heartier sandwich. Ultimately, the versatility of the grilled cheese sandwich makes it a favourite among many in the UK, whether it's a simple, comforting meal at home or a gourmet treat from a local restaurant.
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Grilled cheese in Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon has a lot to offer when it comes to grilled cheese sandwiches. Here are some of the top spots to satisfy your cravings:
The Knockback
The Knockback on Alberta is a popular choice for grilled cheese enthusiasts. They offer the Grilled Cheese Grill menu, which has received rave reviews. The bar owners are also known for their friendly personalities and for transforming the space into a vibrant hangout spot.
Slingshot
For a simple yet perfectly executed grilled cheese, Slingshot is the place to go. Their classic grilled cheese and tomato soup combination is a favourite among locals. You can also customise your sandwich by adding grilled onions and bacon for a heartier bite.
The Bye and Bye
Vegans won't have to miss out on the grilled cheese experience, thanks to The Bye and Bye. They offer a delicious vegan grilled cheese option that will leave you craving more.
Ron Toms
Ron Toms takes a classic approach to their grilled cheese sandwich, pairing it with tomato soup for a comforting meal. This spot is ideal if you're seeking a traditional grilled cheese experience.
Lutz
If you're looking for something unique, Lutz offers a grilled cheese with a side of house-made chilli for dunking. It's a combination that will surely tantalise your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.
Better Half
Better Half, located near NE Fremont and the hospital, is another favourite among grilled cheese lovers. Pair their incredible grilled cheese sandwich with their Thai-inspired tomato soup for a flavour explosion.
Whether you're a traditionalist or an adventurous foodie, Portland, Oregon, has a grilled cheese sandwich to satisfy your taste buds. So, get out there and start exploring the cheesy delights that this city has to offer!
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Grilled cheese in Scandinavia
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a popular comfort food in Scandinavia. A classic grilled cheese sandwich is made with Norwegian Gouda, Jarlsberg, or Norvegia (Norwegian Gautaler cheeses). These cheeses can be substituted with Emmental or Gouda, which are easily available and have a similar flavour profile. To make the sandwich, butter is spread on two slices of bread, followed by the addition of sliced cheese. The sandwich is then grilled on a pan with mayonnaise spread on the outer slice of bread. This results in a crispy and compact sandwich with a gooey, melted cheese centre.
In addition to the classic grilled cheese, Scandinavians also enjoy experimenting with different types of cheese and ingredients in their grilled cheese sandwiches. For instance, a popular variation includes salmon and dill, which adds a unique flavour to the sandwich. This combination is especially favoured in Scandinavian countries, where fish is a staple food. The dill provides a refreshing contrast to the melted cheese and toasted bread, reminiscent of dill pickles.
Another distinctive type of cheese used in Scandinavian grilled cheese sandwiches is "bread cheese" or Juustoleipa. This cheese originated in Scandinavia and has a buttery, slightly sweet flavour. It gets its name from the crust that forms on the outside of the cheese when baked in special ovens, resembling toasted bread. Bread cheese has a soft, silky texture and a mild flavour. When warmed, it softens rather than melts, making it ideal for grilled cheese sandwiches. It can be served on its own or with honey, preserves, or toasted nuts for added flavour.
Scandinavian grilled cheese sandwiches showcase the region's unique cheeses and ingredients, offering a variety of flavours and textures that elevate the classic comfort food. Whether it's the traditional Norwegian cheeses, the addition of salmon and dill, or the sweet and buttery bread cheese, grilled cheese in Scandinavia is a delightful culinary experience.
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Grilled cheese in the Midwest
Grilled cheese is a beloved dish in the Midwest and beyond, with families across the region putting their unique twists on this classic comfort food. While the basic formula of melting cheese between slices of bread remains consistent, the type of cheese, bread, and additional ingredients can vary infinitely, reflecting the creativity and cultural diversity of the Midwest.
One notable example of the Midwest's obsession with grilled cheese is the world record set by brothers Exodus and Iggy Chaudhry from Wisconsin. They crafted a mammoth grilled cheese sandwich measuring 10.9 feet long, 6.25 feet wide, and 2.75 inches thick, requiring a custom frying pan to cook it! This feat not only showcased the Midwest's passion for grilled cheese but also exemplified the spirit of giving, as the brothers used the event to raise funds for local food banks.
When it comes to grilled cheese in the Midwest, a multitude of mouth-watering variations come to mind. For instance, the Chicago-style pizza grilled cheese oozes with Kansas City BBQ pork, while the Minnesota-inspired version features Honeycrisp apples and cheese curds. The corn-studded grilled cheese, another Midwest creation, combines corn, green onion, cilantro, and Colby Jack cheese for a burst of flavour and texture. For those craving a heartier bite, the Reuben grilled cheese, made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and dill pickles on pumpernickel bread, is a popular choice.
Sargento, a Wisconsin-based company, has played a pivotal role in elevating the grilled cheese experience in the Midwest and beyond. Since its founding in 1953, Sargento has been at the forefront of innovation, introducing pre-packaged sliced and shredded natural cheeses to the American market. Their commitment to quality and community has made them a household name, with their products finding their way into countless grilled cheese sandwiches.
Whether it's a classic combination of cheddar or American cheese with buttered bread or a more adventurous mix of ingredients, grilled cheese in the Midwest is a testament to the region's culinary ingenuity. It's a simple dish that brings people together, evokes childhood memories, and satisfies cravings of all ages, solidifying its place as a staple in the Midwest diet.
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Frequently asked questions
The Cheese Grille was a restaurant in Portland, Oregon, that served gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.
The Grilled Cheese Truck is an American food truck company that serves gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.
Some of the best cheeses to use for grilled cheese sandwiches are American, Cheddar, Pepper Jack, Gruyère, and Monterey Jack.
Any type of bread works for grilled cheese sandwiches. Some popular options include sourdough, white bread, and brioche.
You can try looking for grilling cheese at Whole Foods or Wisconsin Cheese Mart in the Midwest. You can also try ordering online from saxelbycheese.com.
