Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together an exquisite blend of flavors: the richness of double cream brie, the tartness of blackberries, the depth of balsamic vinegar, and the subtle sweetness from sugar and lemon juice. These ingredients come together to create a jam that’s perfectly balanced in flavor, which is then paired with crispy, golden-brown sourdough bread. The result? A grilled cheese that’s both decadent and sophisticated, making it an ideal meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups blackberries

• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 6 tbsp sugar

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• Kosher salt

• 300 g double cream brie cheese

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme

• 8 slices sourdough bread

• Butter, as needed

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by preparing the blackberry balsamic jam. In a saucepan, combine the blackberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of kosher salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and allow the mixture to simmer.

2. Break down the blackberries by mashing them with a wooden spoon or potato masher. Continue to simmer for 7 to 10 minutes until the mixture thickens into a jam. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Once done, transfer the jam to a small bowl and set aside to cool.

3. Slice the brie cheese into ½-inch thick slices.

4. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Be sure not to let the pan get too hot, as this could brown the bread before the cheese melts. If your skillet isn’t large enough, you may need to cook in two batches.

5. Spread butter on one side of four slices of sourdough bread. Place the buttered side down in the pan. Add a layer of brie cheese on top. Let the bread fry slowly until the brie starts to soften and the bread turns golden brown. Sprinkle with the chopped thyme.

6. Spread a generous layer of blackberry balsamic jam on the remaining bread slices. Place the jam side down over the brie, then butter the top side of the bread. Carefully flip the sandwich and continue to fry until the bottom piece of bread is golden brown and the brie is fully melted.

7. Transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Slice them in half with a sharp knife and enjoy your delicious creation!

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

• Servings: 4

Variations

• Add fresh greens: For a contrast in texture and flavor, you can add a few leaves of arugula or spinach inside the sandwich before grilling.

• Use a different cheese: If you don’t have brie, you can substitute it with camembert, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar for a twist on the flavor.

• Try a different bread: While sourdough adds a delightful tanginess, you can use any sturdy bread like ciabatta or a baguette for a change in texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: If you have any leftover sandwiches, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat to prevent the bread from burning while ensuring the cheese melts. You can also use an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to warm them through.

FAQs

1. How do I know when the blackberry balsamic jam is ready?

The jam should be thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. It will continue to thicken as it cools, so be sure to remove it from the heat once it reaches a jam-like consistency.

2. Can I make the blackberry balsamic jam ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the jam up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat before using.

3. What type of brie should I use?

Double cream brie works best for this recipe because it’s extra creamy and melts beautifully, but you can also use regular brie.

4. Can I use frozen blackberries for the jam?

Yes, you can use frozen blackberries. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using them in the jam.

5. Can I make this sandwich without butter?

Yes, you can use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free alternative or to reduce the richness.

6. Can I use another type of vinegar in the jam?

Balsamic vinegar adds a unique flavor, but you could experiment with other vinegars, like red wine vinegar, for a different taste.

7. How do I avoid the bread burning while grilling?

Make sure to cook the sandwich over medium heat and not too high. The slower cooking process will help the cheese melt evenly without the bread getting overly crispy.

8. Can I use a grill pan to cook the sandwiches?

Yes, a grill pan is a great option! Just be sure to butter the bread generously to get those perfect grill marks.

9. What if my sandwich isn’t melting enough?

If the cheese isn’t melting properly, lower the heat and cover the pan for a minute or two to create some steam, which will help melt the cheese.

10. How can I make the blackberry balsamic jam spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a bit of finely chopped jalapeño to the jam as it simmers for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

This Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese is the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and creamy, making it an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a fun twist on a classic, this sandwich delivers flavor and satisfaction with every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for lunch or a quick dinner.

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