Sometimes all I need is one thing to help inspire a recipe or an idea. Recently, I’ve really been into cooking with miso and adding it to dishes you might not expect. I’ve made miso ramen…two actually, but I wanted to experiment a little with the flavor. This sandwich is savory, salty, and has an incredible umami flavor, which is the traditional base in most Japanese cooking. Adding cheese isn’t something that’s often done, but something about the pairing of salty miso and creamy cheese sounded like it could really work and be delicious.
Details
This recipe is very basic but I don’t let that fool you. The flavor is delicious, all thanks to the miso, garlic, and herbs. First up, find yourself some really nice sourdough bread. I like to grab mine fresh from Whole Foods. For the miso, I love to use white miso paste. But if I’m being honest I have not experimented much with red miso. However, you can use them interchangeably, just keep in mind that red miso has a deeper, bolder flavor. So you might want to use a little less if you go for the red. Mix the miso with butter, garlic, and herbs. I use basil and or cilantro, but whatever herbs you have on hand are great! Spread the miso butter on the inside of both pieces of bread. You’ll want to use the inside of the bread to get the most health benefits from the miso. And of course, for added flavor. Now the cheese. Creamy, sweet, and melty gouda cheese is key. Yes, any cheese will be really great, but I felt like the gouda made things extra special. I also used some Monterey jack. I think it really helps to elevate this grilled cheese to great. It’s very mild, but melts so well. Pan fry the sandwich with olive oil or even just another pat of butter. Five minutes later you’ll have the best grilled cheese. The cheese on the inside melts into that gooey goodness we all love so much. While the outside of the bread becomes crisp.
The spicy honey
Lastly, I always finish this grilled cheese with a drizzle of spicy honey (just chili flakes and honey) and a pinch of flaky sea salt. The sweetness with the cheese and salty miso is the most wonderful combination. The honey and sea salt is a MUST (it’s honestly beyond words how good it is). And that’s it! SIMPLE but crave-worthy and just so delicious. Excited to make this for Kai, Red, and Hailey when they return home from China. It’s one of those recipes they will love. Looking for other sandwich recipes, try these: Roasted Turmeric Chicken Pitas with Garlic Lemon Tahini Spinach and Artichoke Pita Grilled Cheese Broccoli Cheese Quesadilla with Chipotle Sauce Crispy Cheese Poblano Avocado Burrito Lastly, if you make this Miso Butter Grilled Cheese be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you guys and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made is my favorite!
