Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese

Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese: A Gourmet Twist on a Classic

Indulge in a sophisticated twist on the classic grilled cheese with this Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese recipe. Combining the rich creaminess of double cream brie with the tangy sweetness of a homemade blackberry balsamic jam, this sandwich offers a unique balance of flavors. Sourdough bread adds the perfect crunch, while fresh thyme elevates the dish with a hint of herbaceousness. This is the ultimate comfort food for when you want to treat yourself to something special!

Ingredients:

For the Blackberry Balsamic Jam:

• 2 cups blackberries
• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 6 tbsp sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Pinch of kosher salt

For the Grilled Cheese:

• 300g double cream brie cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 8 slices sourdough bread
• Butter, as needed

Directions:

1. Prepare the Blackberry Balsamic Jam:

• In a medium saucepan, combine the blackberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of kosher salt.
• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 7-10 minutes.
• Use a wooden spoon or potato masher to break down the blackberries as the mixture simmers. Continue cooking until it thickens into a jam-like consistency.
• Transfer the jam to a small bowl and let it cool slightly.

2. Assemble the Grilled Cheese:

• Slice the brie into ½-inch thick slices.
• Heat a skillet over medium heat. Spread butter on one side of 4 slices of sourdough bread.
• Place the buttered side down in the skillet, then top each slice with brie. Let the cheese begin to soften while the bread turns golden brown and crispy.
• Sprinkle a bit of fresh thyme over the melted brie for extra flavor.

3. Add the Blackberry Jam and Grill:

• Spread a generous layer of the blackberry balsamic jam on the unbuttered side of the remaining slices of sourdough.
• Place these jam-covered slices, jam side down, on top of the brie-covered bread in the skillet.
• Butter the tops of the sandwiches and carefully flip them over. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the second side is golden brown and the cheese has fully melted.

4. Serve:

• Transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
• Slice each sandwich in half and serve warm for the ultimate gooey, cheesy experience.

Recipe Tips:

• Brie Cheese: Make sure to use a high-quality, double cream brie for the creamiest texture. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can substitute brie with camembert.
• Jam Consistency: If the blackberry jam is too thick, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of water to thin it out slightly. The jam should be spreadable, but not runny.
• Bread Choice: Sourdough works best for this recipe due to its sturdy texture and slight tang, but you can use any crusty bread you like.

Serving Suggestions:

This gourmet grilled cheese pairs beautifully with a light side salad or a bowl of tomato soup. For a more indulgent meal, serve it alongside crispy sweet potato fries .

Nutrition Information:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: 400 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings

This Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese is an irresistible combination of sweet and savory, with the rich creaminess of brie perfectly complemented by the tangy blackberry balsamic jam. Whether you’re treating yourself to a special lunch or wowing guests at a gathering, this sandwich will elevate any meal to gourmet status. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!

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