Description

This Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese is a gourmet twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, combining sweet and tangy blackberry balsamic jam with creamy double cream brie and fresh thyme. Perfect for a sophisticated lunch or light dinner, this recipe balances rich cheese with a vibrant fruity jam, all toasted between crispy sourdough slices.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Blackberry Balsamic Jam

2 cups blackberries
3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
6 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp lemon juice
Pinch of kosher salt

For the Sandwich

300 g double cream brie cheese
1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
8 slices sourdough bread
Butter, as needed for frying

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Instructions

Make the Blackberry Balsamic Jam: In a medium saucepan, combine the blackberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and cook until the berries break down and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Grilled Cheese: Slice the double cream brie cheese into even pieces. Lightly butter one side of each sourdough bread slice. On the unbuttered side of four slices, layer the sliced brie and sprinkle with chopped fresh thyme.
Assemble and Cook the Sandwiches: Spread a generous amount of the blackberry balsamic jam onto the remaining four bread slices on the unbuttered side. Place these slices, jam side down, on top of the cheese-layered slices to form sandwiches with the buttered side facing out.
Grill the Sandwiches: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula and flip carefully to ensure even melting of the brie cheese inside.
Serve: Once both sides are golden and the cheese has melted, remove the sandwiches from the skillet. Let them cool for a minute or two to allow the flavors to set and prevent burning. Slice the sandwiches if desired and serve warm.

Notes

You can substitute fresh thyme with rosemary or basil for a different herbal note.
Use a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan for best results and even browning.
The jam can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
For a vegan version, substitute brie with a plant-based cheese alternative and use a vegan butter substitute.
Adjust sugar in the jam according to the sweetness of the blackberries.