Kimchi Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Take this childhood classic to the next level with a boost of flavor and extra health benefits from kimchi — that’s right, we’re making a kimchi grilled cheese sandwich.

A traditional Korean fermented food, kimchi is a mix of fermented vegetables and seasonings, usually cabbage. You’ll find it in most Asian grocery stores or in the health foods section of your local supermarket.

Fermented foods, like the kimchi in this kimchi grilled cheese, not only add a slightly sour (but satisfying!) flavor, but they’re also full of good-for-you probiotics that balance your gut’s healthy bacteria levels and aid in digestion. By making this grilled cheese with kimchi, you’re not only putting a more exciting twist on a classic, but your gut will thank you, too. 

Time-saving tip: Make clean-up easier and faster if you plan to use this recipe often by designating a specific cutting board for chopping kimchi. The chili peppers used to make kimchi can stain most surfaces, including cutting boards, dish towels and clothing. Consider yourself warned.

Try even more tasty recipes featuring fermented foods like our Kielbasa Bake With Cheesy Potatoes and Sauerkraut and our Greek Yogurt Black Bean Dip.

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Kimchi Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Start to finish: 10 minutes
Impresses: 1 

Ingredients
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
2 slices each of American cheese and sharp cheddar
2 slices sourdough bread
¼–½ cup sliced cabbage kimchi, drained and roughly chopped
½ tablespoon mayonnaise, divided
½ tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper paste), optional 

Method
Heat toasted sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.

Prepare the grilled cheese by adding the first layer of cheese to the bottom piece of bread. Add the layer of kimchi, and then a second layer of cheese. Top it with the remaining piece of bread and spread ½ the mayonnaise on top. If using gochugaru, spread a thin layer inside 1 or both pieces of bread for an extra layer of flavor. 

Flip the kimchi grilled cheese sandwich over when placing it in the skillet, so the slathered side is facing down. Cook 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese begins to melt and the bread is well-toasted. Before flipping, add the remaining mayonnaise across the top piece of bread. Flip, and then cook another 2–3 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the other side of the sandwich is well-toasted.

Remove from heat and place on a clean cutting board. Allow the grilled cheese to cool slightly. Slice in ½ and enjoy your kimchi grilled cheese sandwich immediately.