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Onion Grilled Cheese

You might think you know grilled cheese, but have you ever tried adding caramelized onions? This simple yet sophisticated twist elevates the classic sandwich into something truly special. The sweet, rich flavors of the onions blend seamlessly with the creamy Gruyère, all encased in perfectly toasted sourdough. But there’s more to this dish than just taste; its history and versatility can surprise even the most seasoned cook. Curious about how to bring this delightful fusion to your kitchen? Let’s explore what makes this sandwich a standout choice for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll often find yourself reaching for this Onion Grilled Cheese recipe because it effortlessly combines simple ingredients to create a rich, toasty dish.

It takes less than 25 minutes to make, with only about 5 minutes of prep time. You’ll appreciate the straightforward cooking techniques, which make it easy for anyone to follow.

The balance of savory caramelized onions and two types of cheese enhances the flavor, while fresh thyme adds aromatic depth. If you want a sweet contrast, try adding fig jam. Each sandwich is layered with caramelized onions that are cooked for 30-60 minutes until deeply caramelized, creating a deliciously rich taste.

This dish pairs well with tomato soup or salads, and you can easily customize it with different types of bread and cheese. It’s a versatile option for any meal.

History

The rich history of grilled cheese sandwiches showcases how culinary traditions evolve over time. You might find it interesting that the first known recipe appeared in an 1861 English cookbook, featuring toasted sandwiches made with brown bread, butter, and cheese.

During the Great Depression, the cheese dream, an open-faced version, gained popularity in the U.S. Navy cooks even prepared “American cheese filling sandwiches” during World War II. This dish became a staple in American homes during economic hardships, providing comfort and sustenance.

Modern recipes have embraced new flavors by adding ingredients like caramelized onions, drawing inspiration from traditional dishes such as French Onion Soup. The use of cheeses like Gruyère and fontina enhances the taste, while techniques like deglazing with wine or broth elevate the caramelized onions, making your grilled cheese experience richer and more delicious.

Recipe

Onion Grilled Cheese

Indulge in the delicious flavors of a classic grilled cheese sandwich elevated by the sweet, rich taste of caramelized onions. This delightful combination creates a comfort food experience that’s both satisfying and sophisticated. The secret lies in the slow caramelization of onions, which transforms their natural sugars, adding depth and complexity to each bite. Homemade sourdough bread is recommended for this dish, but store-bought French bread can also work well.

Paired with gooey Gruyère cheese and your choice of rustic bread, this dish is sure to become a favorite. To make the sandwich even more special, consider adding optional ingredients like sherry or balsamic vinegar to the onions for an extra layer of flavor.

Whether you’re enjoying it on a rainy day with a warm bowl of tomato soup or serving it at a gathering, this onion grilled cheese is sure to impress. Get ready to savor the perfect blend of textures and tastes as you journey through this simple yet satisfying recipe.

Ingredients:
– Large yellow onion, thinly sliced
– Gruyère cheese (or a combination of Gruyère and Swiss cheese)
– Sourdough bread or rustic loaf
– Unsalted butter
– Olive oil
– Optional flavors: sherry cooking wine, thyme, whole grain mustard, balsamic vinegar, fig jam

Instructions:

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add equal parts unsalted butter and olive oil to the pan. Once the butter has melted, add the thinly sliced onions, stirring to coat them in the fat.
Cook the onions slowly for 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to caramelize them until they’re golden brown and sweet. If the onions begin to stick to the pan, deglaze with a splash of sherry, vinegar, or wine, scraping up any bits.
Season the caramelized onions with salt and black pepper to taste. If you’d like, add optional ingredients like thyme or garlic to infuse additional flavor. Once done, remove the onions from the heat and let them cool slightly.
To assemble the sandwiches, spread one slice of bread with whole grain mustard or fig jam. Layer on a generous portion of the caramelized onions, followed by a slice (or two) of Gruyère cheese. Top with another slice of bread.
Heat a clean skillet over medium-low heat and add a little more butter and olive oil. Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet and toast until the bread is golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
Carefully flip the sandwiches and continue to cook on the other side until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy, about another 3-4 minutes. For an extra crispy crust, increase the heat slightly for the final minute of cooking.
Serve the onion grilled cheese sandwiches hot, optionally alongside a bowl of tomato soup for dipping.

For best results, take your time with the caramelization of the onions; patience is key to achieving that sweet flavor. Feel free to experiment with different cheese and bread combinations to suit your taste.

If you’d like a vegan version, consider using plant-based cheese and a vegan butter substitute, and add soy sauce to the onions for a savory kick. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Final Thoughts

While savoring your onion grilled cheese, you might realize just how versatile and satisfying this dish can be. Caramelizing onions slowly is key to achieving that rich flavor, so take your time.

Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or White Cheddar to find your favorite melt. Don’t forget to take into account your bread choice; sourdough or brioche can add a delightful texture. Additionally, using whole wheat bread can enhance the overall texture of your sandwich.

You can also enhance your sandwich with extras like fig jam or fresh herbs. Proper layering guarantees every bite is packed with flavor, so distribute your ingredients evenly.

Finally, control the heat to prevent burnt onions and a dry sandwich. With these tips, you can create a deliciously unique onion grilled cheese every time.

FAQ

Curious about perfecting your onion grilled cheese? Start by caramelizing 1-2 large onions over medium-low heat with a mix of butter and olive oil, taking 30-60 minutes for that rich, brown color.

Use thick slices of bread like sourdough or Tuscan Pane, and choose cheeses such as extra sharp white cheddar or Gruyère, aiming for about 1-2 cups grated. Walnut sourdough bread enhances the flavor and texture of the sandwich, making it even more delicious.

Butter one side of each slice before assembly, layering cheese and onions. Cook the sandwich for 3-5 minutes per side over medium-low heat until the cheese melts and the bread turns golden.

For a crispy crust, sprinkle Parmesan in the pan. Serve immediately for the best flavor, and don’t hesitate to experiment with additional ingredients for a unique twist!