The Art of Grilled Cheese: The Debate on Buttering the Inside of Bread

When crafting a perfect grilled cheese sandwich, one question often arises: should you butter the inside of the bread that does not touch the pan? This article explores various techniques and opinions from seasoned grilled cheese experts and delves into the relative importance of buttering both the sides and the inside of the bread.

The Traditional Approach: Buttering the Outside

Most people agree that buttering the outside of the bread that touches the pan is crucial. This technique ensures a golden, crispy texture on the exterior, providing a delightful crunch that complements the soft, melty interior of the sandwich. According to many grilling enthusiasts, lightly buttering the outside of the bread and using a medium-low heat to gradually brown the sandwich is the way to go. This method allows for a clean, pure taste reminiscent of a well-made grilled cheese.

Mayonnaise as an Alternative

Some chefs prefer an alternative to butter, such as mayonnaise. By using a thin skimming of mayonnaise and placing the mayo side down in the pan, the sandwich gets a subtle, velvety texture. This method is particularly favored for those who find butter too greasy. Heating the cheese slices and adding warm ham or turkey slices, then assembling the sandwich, gives a unique twist to the traditional grilled cheese. Sourdough bread is a recommended choice for achieving an especially crispy exterior.

Mayonnaise and Butter All Over

For those seeking the ultimate grilled cheese experience, some chefs recommend coating both inside and outside surfaces with mayonnaise before putting the cheese in the pan. Melting butter in the pan and browning the bread on both sides ensures a nicely browned, buttery, and soft melted cheese grilled cheese sandwich. A well-seasoned cast-iron skillet is often preferred for this method, as it enhances the flavor and texture significantly.

The Flexibility and Freedom of Grilling

While there is an art to making a grilled cheese sandwich, there are no hard and fast rules. Each chef can custom-make their grilled cheese to suit their preferences. Experimentation with different bread types, cheeses, and even meats or vegetables can yield unique and delicious results. Some grill enthusiasts recommend a specific recipe that involves:

This combination provides a unique texture and flavor, but as the article highlights, individual taste preferences vary widely. If you’re not a fan of grilled cheese, a burger might be a better option, as the author discovered during a recent meal.

Conclusion

The grilling of a perfect grilled cheese sandwich is an art form that can be tailored to each individual’s tastes. Whether you choose to butter the outside, put mayonnaise on all sides, or find another method that suits your preferences, the key is to enjoy the process and the final result. Feel free to experiment and customize your grilled cheese sandwich to perfection!