FGC: Almond Butter & Figs

Fancy grilled cheese from A Beautiful MessMaking a fantastic fancy grilled cheese sandwich is an easy skill that should be in everyone's repertoire. A good FGC takes minimal effort but can make any lunch or dinner at home feel like the best hometown dinner you've ever been to. Here's one of my favorite variations. The ingredients might surprise you, but I highly recommend you give it a try. 

My favorite grilled cheese sandwichFGC with Almond Butter and Figs, serves two.

4 thick slices of sourdough bread
2-3 tablespoons almond butter
2-3 ounces soft or semisoft cheese (I used Havarti creamy)*
3-4 fresh figs, chopped
2 tablespoons mayo

*You can use any kind of cheese you like, but for this sandwich, something with a sweet or buttery finish is best (think Brie).

How to make the best grilled cheese sandwichMy number one trick for a perfect FGC sandwich: use mayo instead of butter or oil. It might seem a little weird if you've never tried this, but I promise it's delicious and produces a fantastic, crispy exterior.

Add mayo to each exterior side of two of the bread slices. Place the first slice mayo side down in a pan over medium/low heat (not too hot or the bread can burn before the cheese melts). Pile on the cheese and figs. On the other slice, spread the almond butter. Place over the top of the first piece and press down. Now spread the top of that piece with mayo. After a minute or two, flip to the other side. 

Fancy Grilled Cheese SandwichesContinue cooking until both sides are crispy and the cheese begins to ooze out the sides of the sandwich. Make these with some people you love this weekend; they'll be impressed. xo. Emma

