Havarti & Caramelized Leek Grilled Cheese

# Ingredient list:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced

02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

03 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

04 - Pinch of salt

05 - Pinch of black pepper

→ Cheese

06 - 4 ounces Havarti cheese, sliced

→ Bread & Spreads

07 - 4 slices artisan or sourdough bread

08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

# How-to:

01 - Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced leeks, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until leeks are soft and caramelized, approximately 12 to 15 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

02 - Lay out all bread slices. Spread one side of each slice with softened butter.

03 - Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Distribute caramelized leeks evenly over the bread. Layer Havarti cheese slices on top. Top each sandwich with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.

04 - Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted, approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side. Gently press with a spatula for even browning and melting.

05 - Remove sandwiches from heat. Slice each sandwich in half and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -

The leeks become candy sweet and melt into the cheese for a sophisticated take on childhood comfort
Havartis creamy mildness lets the caramelized vegetables shine without overpowering them

02 -

Low and slow is the secret to properly caramelized leeks, rushing them will only give you softened leeks without that deep sweetness
Medium low heat prevents burning the bread before the cheese has time to melt completely

03 -