Kamil Perry
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic American dish, but the name can be misleading as they are not always grilled. In British English, a grill is a heating element that cooks food from above, whereas in some regions, grill refers to a metal grid that is heated from below. While grilled cheese sandwiches can be made on a grill, they are more commonly cooked in a skillet, griddle, or pan, resulting in a crispy, buttery exterior and gooey, molten cheese interior. Some people also use a sandwich press, toastie maker, or oven to make their grilled cheese sandwiches, which are technically toasties.
Characteristics of grilled cheese sandwiches
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Names | Grilled cheese, toasties, jaffles, melted cheese sandwich |
| Cooking methods | Stove, skillet, griddle, pan, sandwich press, toastie maker, oven, BBQ, electric griddle, salamander, broiler, waffle iron, microwave |
| Bread | Thick-sliced bread, Texas toast, sourdough, untoasted bread |
| Butter | Unsalted, clarified butter (ghee), mayonnaise, coconut oil |
| Cheese | Medium cheddar, gouda, Havarti, mozzarella, Gruyère, Emmentaler, Monterey jack, pepper jack, Swiss, fontina, Parmesan, asiago |
| Add-ons | Roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, kimchi, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, mac and cheese, spaghetti, Thanksgiving leftovers |
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What You'll Learn
Grilled cheese sandwiches are toasted, not grilled
Grilled cheese sandwiches are often toasted rather than grilled for convenience and speed. While the name suggests that the sandwich is grilled, the cooking method is more akin to toasting, with the bread cooked in a skillet, griddle, or pan on a stovetop. This allows for the creation of a crisp, buttery exterior and a gooey, molten cheese interior.
The term "grilled" in the context of grilled cheese sandwiches may be attributed to regional variations in the usage of the word "grill." In British English, a grill typically refers to a heating element that cooks food from above, while in some regional forms of English, it can refer to a metal grid that is heated from below, similar to a griddle.
Preparing grilled cheese sandwiches in a skillet or griddle provides greater control over the cooking process, allowing for the bread to be toasted to a golden brown colour and the cheese to be melted evenly. This method also prevents the sandwich from becoming soggy, as the toasting process blocks moisture and creates a barrier that prevents the bread from becoming floppy.
While some individuals opt to grill their sandwiches on a barbecue or use a sandwich press or toastie maker, the classic grilled cheese sandwich is prepared in a skillet or griddle, resulting in a toasted rather than grilled sandwich.
Additionally, the type of bread and cheese used can significantly impact the final product. Thicker-sliced bread, such as Texas toast or sourdough, is recommended to prevent the sandwich from becoming too soggy or flimsy. A combination of cheeses, such as medium cheddar, gouda, and Havarti, can be used to create a blend of flavours and textures.
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Regional differences in the meaning of grill
The term "grill" can have different meanings depending on the region and cultural context. Here are some examples of regional differences in the meaning of "grill":
North America (United States and Canada):
In the United States, the term "grill" typically refers to cooking food directly over a source of dry heat, often using a metal grate that leaves "grill marks." This can be done outdoors on charcoal or gas grills, or indoors using a stove-top grill pan or an electric grill. In the context of cooking, the word "grill" is often used as a verb, as in "grilling burgers and hot dogs." Additionally, in the US, when the heat source for grilling comes from above, it is specifically called "broiling," and the pan used is called a "broiler pan."
United Kingdom (British English):
In the United Kingdom, the definition of "grill" differs from the US usage. In British English, a "grill" typically refers to a heating element that cooks food from above. Historically, this would be a separate element above the oven, but modern ovens often have a built-in grill function using the top element.
Australia:
In Australia, "grilled cheese sandwiches" are often made using sandwich irons, and they are called "jaffles." This method of preparation differs from the typical grilled cheese sandwich and involves cooking the sandwich in an enclosed space, resulting in a slightly different dish.
South Africa:
In South Africa, the term "braai" is used interchangeably with "barbecue." A braai refers to both the social event of gathering around a fire and cooking food, as well as the cooking equipment itself, such as a grill. Braais are considered a significant part of South African culture and are often used for celebrations and social gatherings.
Germany:
In Germany, people often grill over charcoal or gas, and grilled meats include various types of sausages, steaks, poultry, and minced meat dumplings. Grilling is a popular method of cooking in Germany, and it is common to find grilled items at regional festivals, including eel, trout, and whole sides of pork or beef.
Mexico:
In Mexico, there is a traditional earthen barbecue method called "horno." Carne asada, which means "roasted meat," is a popular dish where marinated cuts of beef are rubbed with salt and pepper and then grilled, often served with tortillas, grilled onions, and bell peppers. Another popular barbecue dish in Mexico is "cabrito," which is an entire kid goat slowly grilled or smoked on an open charcoal grill.
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Grilled cheese is quicker and simpler to fry
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic American staple, and while they can be made in a variety of ways, frying them is often the quickest and simplest option.
Frying a grilled cheese sandwich is a straightforward process that typically involves using a skillet, griddle, or pan on a stovetop. The ease of this method makes it accessible to anyone, even those who are new to cooking. All you need is a spatula, butter, cheese, and bread, making it a convenient and affordable meal or snack.
The simplicity of frying a grilled cheese sandwich is further enhanced by the fact that almost any type of sliced bread can be used. From sandwich bread to loaf bread, and even sourdough, the options are endless. However, it's important to avoid bread that is too thick, thin, soft, or holey, as these can lead to issues with melting the cheese or creating a flimsy sandwich.
Frying a grilled cheese sandwich is also a quick process, taking only a few minutes to achieve the perfect golden, buttery crust and melted cheese center. The low heat required for frying allows the cheese to melt fully while the bread crisps up, resulting in a delicious, crispy sandwich in no time. This makes it a convenient option for those short on time or looking for a fast, satisfying snack.
Additionally, frying grilled cheese sandwiches provides the option to experiment with different ingredients and create unique flavor combinations. From adding roasted red peppers and Gruyère for a French twist to throwing in Thanksgiving leftovers, the possibilities are endless. Frying allows for customization and creativity, making it a fun and versatile cooking method for grilled cheese enthusiasts.
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Grilled cheese is made on a skillet, griddle, or pan
Grilled cheese sandwiches are typically made on a skillet, griddle, or pan, and not on an open grill. This is because the term "grilled" can be used more broadly to refer to any form of cooking that involves dry heat, such as that from a skillet or griddle, applied to food from above. In British English, a grill specifically refers to a heating element that cooks food from above, whereas, in some regional forms of English, "grill" can refer to a metal grid that is heated from below.
Preparing grilled cheese sandwiches on a skillet, griddle, or pan is a popular choice due to its convenience and speed. Grilled cheese sandwiches can be cooked on a stovetop, allowing for greater control over the heat source compared to using an oven. This method also enables the creation of grill marks and a slight char on the bread. Cooking grilled cheese sandwiches in a skillet, griddle, or pan also helps prevent the bread from becoming squished, as can happen when using a sandwich press or toastie maker.
When making a grilled cheese sandwich on a skillet, griddle, or pan, it is essential to use the right type of bread. Thicker-sliced bread, such as Texas toast or sourdough, works best as it provides a sturdy base for the melted cheese. Bread that is too thin or soft may result in a flimsy or soggy sandwich. To enhance the flavour and texture of the sandwich, butter is typically applied to the bread before grilling. The amount of butter used is crucial, as it contributes to the desired crispy, golden exterior.
In addition to the type of bread and butter, the choice of cheese is also important. A combination of cheeses, such as medium cheddar, gouda, Havarti, and mozzarella, can elevate the flavour and improve the melting qualities of the sandwich. Seasoning the sandwich with salt and pepper can further enhance the taste. To prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy, it is recommended to toast the bread before adding the cheese. This creates a barrier that prevents the bread from absorbing too much oil released by the melting cheese.
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Grilled cheese is a classic American sandwich
The type of bread is important. A thicker-sliced bread, such as Texas toast or sourdough, works best. You want to avoid bread that is too thick, as the cheese won't melt properly, but also bread that is too thin, which will result in a flimsy and soggy sandwich. The bread should be toasted to prevent it from becoming soggy from the melting cheese and to bring out a deeper flavor.
Butter is a classic coating for grilled cheese, lending a familiar flavor and a golden, buttery glow to the sandwich. About half a tablespoon of butter should be spread on each slice of bread. While butter is traditional, other options such as mayonnaise or coconut oil can be used to add flavor and texture.
The best cheese for a grilled cheese sandwich is a combination of cheeses. Medium cheddar, gouda, and Havarti are a popular blend, but other options include mozzarella, Monterey jack, Gruyere, and Swiss. It is important to avoid using only hard cheeses such as parmesan or asiago, as these will not melt properly.
Grilled cheese sandwiches are typically cooked on a stovetop in a skillet, griddle, or pan. They can also be made using a sandwich press, broiler, or grill. The key to achieving the perfect grilled cheese is low and slow cooking, which allows the cheese to melt fully while the bread becomes golden and crisp.
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Frequently asked questions
Grilled cheese sandwiches are grilled, but the grill used might not be the kind of grill you're thinking of. In British English, a grill is a heating element that cooks food from above, whereas in American English, a grill is a broiler, which cooks food from below. Grilled cheese sandwiches are cooked on a stove in a skillet, griddle, or pan.
Use thick-sliced bread, such as Texas toast or sourdough, and butter both sides of the bread. Use a combination of cheeses, such as medium cheddar, gouda, and Havarti, or mozzarella and a flavored cheese. Cook the sandwich on low to medium-low heat for 6-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
You can add roasted red peppers, Gruyère or Emmentaler, and caramelized onions for a French-inspired grilled cheese, or try adding kimchi, cheddar, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, or balsamic vinegar for a twist. You can also use different types of fat to cook the sandwich, such as mayonnaise, coconut oil, or clarified butter, which have higher smoke points than regular butter.
