Description
A flavorful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich featuring spicy kimchi, sharp cheddar, and creamy Havarti or fontina cheeses layered between sesame and garlic buttered sourdough bread, grilled to golden perfection and topped with fresh chives and a drizzle of honey.
Ingredients
Scale
Sesame Garlic Butter
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 1 tablespoon raw sesame seeds
Sandwich
- 1-2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 4 slices thick cut sourdough bread
- 1 cup kimchi, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Havarti or fontina cheese, shredded
For Serving
- Fresh chives
- Honey
Instructions
- Prepare Sesame Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened salted butter with the grated garlic and raw sesame seeds, mixing well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Spread the sesame garlic butter on the outside of all the bread slices. On the inside of half the slices, spread 1-2 tablespoons of Gochujang evenly. Then layer the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, kimchi, and fresh basil leaves. Top each with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
- Grill Sandwiches: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet one at a time, cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, approximately 3-5 minutes per side. Use a spatula to flip carefully and ensure even grilling.
- Serve: Remove sandwiches from the skillet and cut if desired. Garnish with fresh chives and drizzle with honey for a sweet contrast to the spicy kimchi and Gochujang. Serve immediately.
Notes
- This recipe updates a classic childhood favorite with bold, spicy kimchi and sharp cheeses balanced by aromatic basil and the crunch of sesame seeds.
- Adjust the amount of Gochujang to control the level of heat to your preference.
- Using thick cut sourdough bread provides the perfect sturdy base and tangy flavor to pair with the fillings.
- To keep sandwiches warm while grilling multiple, place finished sandwiches on a baking sheet in a warm oven at 200°F (93°C).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 519 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 33 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
