Description
A delightful twist on a classic grilled cheese sandwich, featuring fresh blackberries and a balsamic reduction that add a burst of tangy sweetness. Melted sharp cheddar cheese lends a comforting richness, nestled between buttery, golden-brown slices of sourdough bread. Perfect for a gourmet snack or a light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits & Flavorings
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 2 tablespoons balsamic reduction
Dairy & Bread
- 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, sliced
- 2 slices sourdough bread
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Blackberries: Rinse the blackberries under cool running water, then gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Lay slices of sharp cheddar evenly over both slices of sourdough bread. Place the blackberries on one slice, then drizzle the balsamic reduction on top. Close the sandwich by placing the other slice of bread on top, cheddar side down.
- Preheat the Skillet: Warm a skillet over medium heat. Spread butter evenly on the outside faces of the sandwich to ensure a golden, crispy crust during grilling.
- Grill the Sandwich: Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom is beautifully golden brown. Flip the sandwich carefully to avoid losing berries or cheese.
- Finish Grilling until Cheese Melts: Continue grilling on the other side until the cheese is fully melted and starts to ooze out slightly. Remove the sandwich from heat, allow it to cool for a minute, then slice it in half and serve warm.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm blackberries to avoid a mushy texture inside the sandwich.
- You can substitute the balsamic reduction with a balsamic glaze or lightly reduced balsamic vinegar if a store-bought reduction is unavailable.
- For a sharper flavor contrast, consider using extra sharp cheddar or adding a pinch of black pepper inside the sandwich.
- Butter the bread generously on the outside for a perfectly crisp and golden crust.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the cheese melted and the bread crispy.
