There’s something inherently comforting about the classic combination of grilled cheese and tomato soup. This beloved pairing has been warming hearts and satisfying taste buds for generations. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, seeking solace on a chilly day, or simply craving a nostalgic meal, this dynamic duo never fails to deliver. In this article, we’ll explore how to create the perfect grilled cheese sandwich and pair it with a homemade tomato soup that will elevate this classic comfort food to new heights.
Part 1: The Perfect Grilled Cheese
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of good quality bread (sourdough or white bread work well)
- 8 oz of cheese (a mix of cheddar and gruyère is recommended)
- 4 tablespoons of butter, softened
- Optional: 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Instructions:
- Begin by grating the cheese if it’s not pre-sliced. A mix of cheeses provides a more complex flavor profile.
- Lay out your bread slices and butter one side of each slice. If using mayonnaise, spread a thin layer on the unbuttered side of each slice. This secret ingredient can help achieve a perfectly golden-brown crust.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet.
- Quickly add a generous portion of grated cheese to the bread, making sure to evenly distribute it.
- Top with another slice of bread, buttered side up.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown.
- Carefully flip the sandwich and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for a minute before slicing diagonally.
- Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Grilled Cheese:
- Use room temperature butter for easy spreading.
- Don’t rush the process – moderate heat ensures the cheese melts completely without burning the bread.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations. Sharp cheddar, gruyère, fontina, or even a bit of blue cheese can add interesting flavors.
- For an extra decadent version, try adding thin slices of apple or a spread of fig jam before grilling.
Part 2: Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup
Now, let’s move on to the perfect companion for our grilled cheese – a creamy, homemade tomato soup. This recipe takes inspiration from slow-roasted tomatoes, which intensify the flavors and create a rich, comforting soup.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 6 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a large baking sheet, arrange the halved tomatoes, quartered onion, and garlic cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized. This slow roasting process intensifies the flavors and sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Once roasted, transfer the vegetables to a large pot. Add the chicken or vegetable broth and tomato paste.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the mixture until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the mixture to a standard blender in batches.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring the soup to a simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream, chopped basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the soup is too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more broth.
- Just before serving, stir in the butter for added richness and a silky texture.
Serving Suggestions:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately alongside your perfectly grilled cheese sandwiches. For an extra touch, you can garnish the soup with a drizzle of cream, a sprinkle of fresh basil, or a few homemade croutons.
The Perfect Pairing
The combination of grilled cheese and tomato soup is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. The crispy, buttery exterior of the grilled cheese gives way to gooey, melted cheese that perfectly complements the rich, creamy tomato soup. The acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
This pairing is often associated with sick meals to help you feel better, and for good reason. The warm, comforting nature of both the sandwich and the soup can be soothing when you’re under the weather. The grilled cheese provides easily digestible carbohydrates and protein, while the tomato soup offers hydration and vitamin C.
Variations and Adaptations
While the classic grilled cheese and tomato soup combo is hard to beat, there are numerous ways to adapt this meal to suit different tastes or dietary requirements:
- Pasta Bread Grilled Cheese: For a unique twist, try using sliced pasta bread for your grilled cheese. This bread, made with cooked pasta incorporated into the dough, adds an interesting texture and flavor to the sandwich.
- Tomato Soup with a Kick: If you enjoy spicier foods, consider adding a touch of chili powder or a dollop of harissa paste to your tomato soup. This transforms it into a hybrid of tomato soup and a milder chili, perfect for those who enjoy recipes with a bit of heat.
- Slow Cooker Tomato Soup: For those days when you want to come home to a ready-made meal, try adapting the tomato soup recipe for a slow cooker. Simply add all ingredients except the cream and butter to your slow cooker in the morning, cook on low for 6-8 hours, then blend and add the cream and butter before serving.
- Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup: Enhance the depth of flavor in your soup by roasting a whole head of garlic along with the tomatoes. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into the soup before blending for an extra layer of rich, mellow garlic flavor.
- Grilled Cheese Variations: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your grilled cheese. Try adding sliced avocado, crispy bacon, or even a layer of pesto to your sandwich for added flavor dimensions.
Health Benefits
While comfort food isn’t typically associated with health food, this meal does offer some nutritional benefits:
- Lycopene: Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.
- Vitamin C: Both tomatoes and tomato soup are excellent sources of vitamin C, which supports immune function.
- Calcium: The cheese in your grilled sandwich provides a good dose of calcium, essential for bone health.
- Complex Carbohydrates: When made with whole grain bread, your grilled cheese can provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
Conclusion
The combination of grilled cheese and tomato soup is more than just a meal – it’s a comforting ritual that has stood the test of time. By making your tomato soup from scratch and perfecting your grilled cheese technique, you can elevate this classic pairing into a gourmet experience.
Whether you’re looking for sick meals to feel better, exploring homemade tomato soup recipes, or simply craving a satisfying lunch or dinner, this duo delivers on all fronts. The versatility of both the sandwich and the soup allows for endless variations, ensuring that this classic combination never gets old.
So the next time you’re in need of some comfort food, skip the canned soup and pre-made sandwiches. Instead, take the time to craft this meal from scratch. The process itself can be therapeutic, and the result is a warm, satisfying meal that nourishes both body and soul. From the first dunk of your crispy grilled cheese into the creamy tomato soup to the last spoonful, you’ll be reminded why this classic pairing has endured for generations and will continue to be a beloved comfort food for years to come.
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FAQ
Is it normal to eat grilled cheese with tomato soup?
Yes, it’s a classic combination that many people enjoy. The creamy soup complements the crispy, cheesy sandwich perfectly.
Is grilled cheese and tomato soup an American dish?
Yes, this pairing is widely considered an American comfort food staple, often enjoyed for lunch or dinner.
What else goes with grilled cheese and tomato soup?
You can enhance your meal with a side salad, pickles, or chips for added crunch and flavor.
What goes well with grilled cheese?
Besides tomato soup, grilled cheese pairs well with fresh fruits, like apple slices, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.