Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese

35 mins
Serves 1
https://www.rhubarbandlavender.com/recipes/blackberry-balsamic-and-brie-grilled-cheese/

Directions

  1. 1Begin by making the blackberry balsamic jam.
  2. 2In a saucepan combine the blackberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of kosher salt.
  3. 3Bring to a boil over medium high heat then turn down the heat and allow the berries to simmer.
  4. 4Break down the berries by crushing with a wooden spoon or potato masher.
  5. 5Simmer the blackberries for 7 to 10 minutes until it reduces into a thick jam.
  6. 6It will thicken even more as it cools.
  7. 7Transfer the jam to a small bowl and set aside to cool.
  8. 8Slice the brie cheese into ½ inch thick slices.
  9. 9Heat a side skillet on medium heat.
  10. 10Do not let the pan get too hot or it may brown the bread before the cheese has melted.
  11. 11Depending on the size of your skillet you may need to do this in two batches.
  12. 12Spread butter on one side of four of the bread slices.
  13. 13Place butter side down in the pan.
  14. 14Top the bread with the brie slices.
  15. 15Let the bread slowly fry until the brie begins to soften and the bread is golden brown.
  16. 16Sprinkle the cheese with the chopped thyme.
  17. 17Spread a thick layer of blackberry jam on the remaining bread slices and place jam side down over the brie cheese.
  18. 18Butter the top side of the bread and then carefully flip.
  19. 19Continue to fry the sandwich until the bottom piece of bread is golden brown and the brie is melted.
  20. 20Transfer the grilled sandwiches to a cutting board.
  21. 21Let cool for a couple of minutes before cutting in half with a sharp knife.
  22. 22Enjoy!

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

Equipment

saucepanwooden spoon or potato mashersmall bowlside skilletcutting boardsharp knife

Tips

  • I recommend using a double cream brie cheese in this recipe. The first time I tested this grilled sandwich I used a fabulous triple cream brie which I already had on hand. Unfortunately, due to its higher fat content, the cheese nearly melted away after grilling. If you do use a triple cream brie, then keep an eye on it and remove from the heat just as it begins to melt.
  • The combination of sweet, tangy fruit and creamy brie is what makes this sandwich irresistible. I used fresh blackberries to make the jam but you could use frozen. Frozen berries can have a higher water content but just continue to simmer the jam and the excess water will reduce.
  • A splash of good quality balsamic vinegar of Modena adds a delicious depth of flavour to the blackberry jam.
  • I added chopped fresh thyme to this sandwich and really enjoyed its herbaceous flavour. I recommend sticking with fresh thyme. You could use dried thyme but be sure to use it sparingly. I personally would omit the thyme altogether if fresh time wasn’t available.
  • My preferred bread for this grilled cheese sandwich is a loaf of chewy sourdough. I really like the flavour of sourdough and thought it paired well with the cheese and blackberries. It also added another dimension of flavour to the sandwich. Feel free to use your favourite bread instead.
Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese | Clip Recipe