Introduction
Grilled Corned Beef and Fontina Sandwiches are a delightful fusion of traditional flavors with the smoky chargrilled essence. This sandwich promises an explosion of taste that is both comforting and satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion where you seek a heartwarming meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest palates.
Tips for this recipe
– Ensure your corned beef slices are thinly cut; this allows for quicker grilling and an ideal texture in your sandwich.
– Pre-grill the bread to enhance its flavor before assembling, giving it a nice char without overcooking.
– Let your fontina cheese melt slightly on the heat of the grilled beef or directly onto hot buttered rye slices for a gooey consistency that melts in the mouth.
Why you will love this recipe
This Grilled Corned Beef and Fontina Sandwiches stand out due to their irresistible combination of flavors, textures, and warmth that comes from grilling. The savory corned beef paired with the melt-in-your-mouth fontina cheese is a match made in culinary heaven, wrapped between two toasted slices of rye bread for an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
– 8 slices Jewish-style rye bread
– Dijon mustard
– 1 pound thinly sliced corned beef (from Homemade Irish Corned Beef and Vegetables)
– 8 ounces thinly sliced Fontina cheese
– 1/2 sweet onion, such as Maui or Vidalia, thinly sliced
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter, divided
Advised equipments
– Charcoal Grill with Dome Cover: Ideal for cooking meats and achieving even heat distribution.
– Rotisserie Oven /Grill Set (4-Burner): Versatile, allowing grilling, baking, roasting, and perfect for whole meats like corned beef.
– Chef’s Knife – 8 Inch: Essential for precise slicing of ingredients.
– Cast Iron Skillet /Griddle Set (2): Excellent for grilling on stovetops or outdoor grills, imparting a classic flavor without direct flame contact.
– Cutting Board – Large Size: Offers stability and helps maintain cleanliness while preparing foods like sandwiches.
– Digital Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: Critical for ensuring corned beef is cooked to perfection, both in safety and tenderness.
– Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set (2): Useful for mixing ingredients like dressings or marinades.
– Mandoline Slicer with Guard /Adjustable Blade Width: Ensures evenly sliced vegetables, essential for garnishes and sides.
– Digital Kitchen Scale: For precise measurements, which are vital in cooking this recipe to success.
– Grill Brush / Cleaner Set (1): Maintains hygiene of your grilling equipment.
– Non-Stick Fry Pan (Medium Size): A versatile kitchen tool for stovetop cooking when direct grilling isn’t an option.
– Sandwich Press / Grill: Offers a quick and effective way to assemble sandwiches with perfectly melted cheese.
History of the recipe
The tradition of corned beef dates back centuries, originally developed as a means to preserve meat through salting during long sea voyages in Ireland. However, when immigrants settled in America, they adapted this technique and created their own flavor profiles, including the infamous “Corned Beef and Cabbage.” Over time, variations of corned beef dishes were born, with Grilled Corned Beef and Fontina Sandwiches emerging as a modern take on this classic comfort food. The integration of Italian cheese like fontina brought an unexpected but delightful twist to the traditional Irish-American sandwich, adding richness and depth of flavor that complements the smoky essence from grilling corned beef perfectly.
Fun facts about this recipe
Grilled Corned Beef and Fontina Sandwiches have quickly become a contemporary culinary trend, bringing together diverse elements in one delicious package. The fusion of American and Irish-inspired flavors not only satisfies the palate but also honors both cultural heritages. Furthermore, this recipe is an excellent example of how innovation can take root from traditional cooking methods—showcasing that there’s always room for creativity in the kitchen, while still paying homage to time-honored techniques and ingredients.
