April is ‘Grilled Cheese Sandwich’ month

Apr 23, 2012, 12.00AM IST
Bet you didn't know that! But for those who love their sandwich with a cheese melt, this is probably a good time to have it.


Also called a toastie, the grilled sandwich comes in a variety of avatars. Read on to know more...


A little history first...
The Ancient Romans were the first to make a cooked bread and cheese sandwich. There are other cultures that have their own version. In France it's called Croque Monsieur while in Switzerland people melt cheese and toast the bread separately.


A few interesting fillings:
One can use a variety of fillings from chicken to red meats, and salami. In Mumbai, the choices are as eclectic as it gets! From the kebab and bhelpuri sandwich to an idli and paneer dosa sandwich, you can get your hands on some unusual flavours.

Grilling trick:
Spread softened butter on one side of the slice of bread. Put it the 'butter side' down, in a non-stick pan. Put a slice of cheese on it. Cover it with the other slice of bread, buttered side up. Allow it to heat. The sandwich needs to cook until it's golden brown outside (check with a spatula). After two minutes flip it.


Did you know?
Today's version of the grilled cheese sandwich originated in the 1920s when sliced bread and American cheese was easily available.


(Compiled by Ismat Tahseen)