Great Grilled Cheese

September 1, 2004
Anyone who needs a recipe to make a grilled cheese sandwich should probably not be in the kitchen in the first place. But cooks interested in more clever versions of the American classic could certainly learn a thing or two from Werlin, IACP winner for The New American Cheese and James Beard Award winner for All American Cheese and Wine. Stressing the sandwich's versatility, the author serves up everything from classic (and "almost-classic") grilled cheese sandwiches to quesadillas and sweet grilled cheese options. Spicy Double-Jack, for example, calls for red pepper flakes and sourdough, while Grilled Spinach and Goat Cheese Croissant uses the French pastry's plentiful butter to complement a cheesy filling. Even Buttery Figs and Blue Cheese and Rich Raspberry Brioche can be classified as grilled cheese sandwiches; the former incorporates crusty Italian bread and gorgonzola, and the latter uses goat cheese and egg bread. In order to make a "great" grilled cheese sandwich, Werlin explains, grate cheese (don't slice it), pile it on and let it ooze. Use salted butter, softened beforehand. And when it comes to bread, size does matter-thicker bread will outweigh the filling. For each recipe, Werlin provides instructions on making the sandwich in a skillet, in a sandwich maker or on a grill. 20 color photos.

August 2, 2004
Anyone who needs a recipe to make a grilled cheese sandwich should probably not be in the kitchen in the first place. But cooks interested in more clever versions of the American classic could certainly learn a thing or two from Werlin, IACP winner for The New American Cheese and James Beard Award winner for All American Cheese and Wine. Stressing the sandwich's versatility, the author serves up everything from classic (and "almost-classic") grilled cheese sandwiches to quesadillas and sweet grilled cheese options. Spicy Double-Jack, for example, calls for red pepper flakes and sourdough, while Grilled Spinach and Goat Cheese Croissant uses the French pastry's plentiful butter to complement a cheesy filling. Even Buttery Figs and Blue Cheese and Rich Raspberry Brioche can be classified as grilled cheese sandwiches; the former incorporates crusty Italian bread and gorgonzola, and the latter uses goat cheese and egg bread. In order to make a "great" grilled cheese sandwich, Werlin explains, grate cheese (don't slice it), pile it on and let it ooze. Use salted butter, softened beforehand. And when it comes to bread, size does matter-thicker bread will outweigh the filling. For each recipe, Werlin provides instructions on making the sandwich in a skillet, in a sandwich maker or on a grill. 20 color photos.

Copyright 2004 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.