Imagine biting into a sandwich that's a perfect symphony of flavors - crispy golden sourdough, creamy melted brie, savory ham, and sweet juicy pears, all pressed to gourmet perfection. This isn't just another sandwich; it's a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or an impressive appetizer, this pressed sandwich is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 sandwiches
Ingredients
- Sourdough bread - 4 slices
- Ham - 100g
- Brie cheese - 100g
- Pear - 1, sliced
- Butter - 2 tablespoons
- Honey - 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- Remove the brie cheese and ham from the refrigerator 15 minutes before preparation to allow them to come to room temperature, which will help them melt and distribute more evenly.
- Wash the pear thoroughly and slice it thinly into uniform pieces, approximately 1/8 inch thick. Ensure slices are even to promote consistent cooking.
- Spread butter softly and evenly on one side of each sourdough bread slice, creating a golden crispy exterior when grilled.
- On the non-buttered side of two bread slices, layer the ingredients: first spread a thin layer of honey, then arrange brie cheese slices, followed by ham, and finally layer the pear slices.
- Top the layered bread with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing outward.
- Heat a heavy skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the pan.
- Use a heavy pan or sandwich press to gently press down on the sandwiches, ensuring even browning and helping the cheese melt.
- Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side until bread is golden brown and crispy, and cheese begins to melt.
- Remove from heat, let rest for 1 minute, then slice diagonally and serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Let cheese and ham sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before assembling to ensure even melting and better flavor distribution.
- Slice Precision: When cutting pears, aim for uniform 1/8-inch thick slices to guarantee consistent texture and cooking.
- Butter is Your Friend: Softly spread butter on the bread's exterior to achieve that irresistible golden-brown crispiness.
- Heat Control: Use medium-low heat to prevent burning while allowing cheese to melt slowly and bread to crisp perfectly.
- Pressing Technique: Use a heavy pan or sandwich press to create even browning and help ingredients meld together seamlessly.
- Serving Tip: Let the sandwich rest for a minute after cooking to allow cheese to set slightly and flavors to integrate.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 70mg