The British Perspective on Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

When you mention a 'grilled cheese sandwich' to an English person, the immediate response is usually, 'What cheese on toast?'

In England, a grilled cheese sandwich is often referred to as a cheese on toast, a term that can be slightly perplexing for those outside the UK. The confusion arises mainly from the difference in culinary terminology—where American English uses the term 'grill' for any cooking method involving dry heat, British English often reserves 'grill' for the specific griddle or grill used in kitchens. As such, many Brits refer to 'grilled cheese' as a toasted cheese sandwich, which can be made in various ways.

How It’s Done

Cheese on Toast: A classic way to prepare what many Brits know as a grilled cheese. One simply toasts one side of a piece of bread and then adds cheese to the non-toasted side. This is then placed under the grill until the cheese melts and bubbles. The resulting sandwich is simple and delicious, yet it holds a unique place in British cuisine.

“Cheese on toast is normally one side of a slice of bread toasted then cheese is put on the non-toasted side and grilled until melted and bubbling.”

Toasted Cheese Sandwich: When the sandwich is made by placing cheese between two slices of bread and grilling both sides, it becomes a toasted cheese sandwich, a term that some Brits might use interchangeably with 'grilled cheese.' This variant is popular and adds a comforting layer to the traditional British menu.

“If its in a sandwich the cheese is put in between the 2 x bread and both sides are grilled. That's a toasted cheese sandwich.”

Cheese and Onion Sandwich: For a delicious and slightly more adventurous twist, try a cheese and onion sandwich. Start with a typical grilled cheese, but add slices of onion to the mix. Some might even opt for a cheese sauce, painted on both sides, and then placed in the oven for 10-15 minutes, creating a slightly more rustic version of the classic grilled cheese. This type of sandwich is more popular in certain regions of the UK and can be a delightful change from the usual cheese on toast.

“If you want to be a bit exotic you could make a cheese and onion sandwich. Then make a cheese sauce and paint that on both sides and place in the oven for 10 – 15 minutes. Its a bit like a croque messiur.”

Regional Variations

In some parts of Wales, you might hear a different term: Welsh Rarebit. While it might sound unsettling to some, Welsh Rarebit is actually a traditional Welsh dish that consists of a cheese sauce spread over toast. It’s a dish that is quite different from the grilled cheese sandwich, even if the name sounds similar. This doesn’t negate the British love for cheese on toast, but it does highlight the regional diversity in British cuisine.

“Mainly call it cheese on toast but in some parts of Wales it is known as Welsh Rarebit.”

A More Exotic Version

For those who are adventurous, there's a more exotic version of the grilled cheese that involves a little more effort but yields great results. This is best described by a user’s response:

“Turn on the grill. Place 2 pieces of bread under the grill…. Once one side becomes crispy but not brown flip it over. Brown the second side. On the non brown side add a good covering of cheddar CHEESE not plastic crap and return to the the grill. When the cheese looks like its got some light brown colouring remove … best to wait to this moment as just melted cheese aint quite the same. Cut cheese toastie in half and add a crack or three of black pepper to taste …. A sprinkle of Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper. I often serve mine with a side of Heinz salad cream.”

This version of grilled cheese, often referred to as a 'cheese toastie,' is a meticulous process that results in a rich, flavorful sandwich that's almost like a mini-meal in itself.

Conclusion

In summary, while a grilled cheese sandwich in the US refers to a cheese sandwich prepared in a particular manner, for many in the UK, it's better known as cheese on toast. The process and the resulting dish are slightly different but equally delicious. Whether you're in England, Wales, or any other part of the UK, you can add a variety of flavors and techniques to your cheese on toast to make it a truly unique and comforting meal.

So the next time you encounter a grilled cheese sandwich, whether in the UK or the US, keep in mind the cultural differences and the unique flavors each region has to offer. Enjoy your meal!