The Art of Making Gourmet Cheese on Toast

Cheese on toast, a classic British comfort food, can be elevated to a gourmet delight with just a few thoughtful ingredients and techniques. Here’s how to turn this humble dish into a culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients

Sourdough Bread: 4 slices, preferably from a freshly baked loaf.

Mature Cheddar Cheese: 200 grams, grated. For a twist, you can mix in some Gruyère or Red Leicester.

Butter: 50 grams, softened.

Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon.

Worcestershire Sauce: A few dashes.

Spring Onions: 2, finely chopped.

Cherry Tomatoes: 6-8, halved.

Fresh Thyme: A few sprigs, leaves picked.

Sea Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.

Method

Prepare the Bread:

Preheat your grill to medium-high.

Lightly toast the slices of sourdough bread on both sides until they are golden brown. This will ensure they remain crisp and hold up to the toppings.

Cheese Mixture:

In a mixing bowl, combine the grated cheeses. Add the Dijon mustard, a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce, finely chopped spring onions, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Mix well to combine.

Assembly:

Spread a thin layer of softened butter on each slice of toasted sourdough. This helps the cheese mixture adhere better and adds an extra layer of flavour.

Evenly distribute the cheese mixture over the buttered bread, pressing it down slightly to ensure it sticks.

Grilling:

Place the prepared slices under the preheated grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Finishing Touches:

Remove the cheese on toast from the grill. Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on top, then sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves.

Season with a pinch of sea salt and a final crack of black pepper.

Serving:

Serve immediately while hot and gooey. Pair with a simple side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfection

Bread Choice: Sourdough is ideal for its robust flavour and texture, but any good quality artisan bread will work. Avoid pre-sliced sandwich bread, as it may not hold up well under the grill.

Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese combinations. A bit of blue cheese can add a sharp tang, while a touch of brie can introduce a creamy element.

Add-Ons: Enhance your cheese on toast with additional toppings like crispy bacon, caramelised onions, or even a fried egg for a more substantial dish.

Accompaniments: A tangy chutney or a dollop of pickle on the side can complement the rich, cheesy flavours perfectly.

Gourmet cheese on toast is all about taking simple ingredients and treating them with care and creativity. With these tips and recipes, you’ll be able to transform this beloved classic into a dish worthy of any fine dining experience. Enjoy!