Concord Grape Ham Havarti Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Transform an ordinary grilled cheese into a gourmet experience with this sweet-savory combination. Caramelized Concord grapes, reduced with balsamic vinegar, create a jammy spread that perfectly complements smoky ham and creamy Havarti cheese. The tangy-sweet grape mixture cuts through the richness while whole grain bread adds hearty texture. This sandwich works beautifully for lunch or a casual dinner when you want something special but approachable. The grape reduction can be made ahead, making assembly quick when hunger strikes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Thomcord grapes, seedless Concordregular Concord grapes1:1fruit
may have seeds to remove
- 2 teaspoons water
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 pinch sea salt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 4 pieces whole grain breadsourdough bread1:1bread
tangier flavor profile
- 4 teaspoons butter
- 2 pieces havarti cheese, thick slicesbrie cheese1:1dairygourmet
creamier texture
- 2 pieces ham
Instructions
- 1
Combine grapes, water, vinegar and salt in small saucepan
- 2
Cook on high heat, stirring frequently for about 4 minutes until grapes burst
- 3
Cook 2 minutes more, crushing grapes with back of spoon until liquid evaporated
- 4
Remove from heat and let cool
- 5
Combine mayo and mustard in small bowl
- 6
Spread mayo mixture evenly on one side of each bread piece
- 7
Layer half the cheese, half the ham and half the grape mixture on two bread slices over mayo mixture
- 8
Top with remaining bread slices, mayo side in
- 9
Butter outsides of both sandwiches
- 10
Cook in skillet over medium heat for about 4 minutes per side, flipping when first side is golden
Tips
Let the grape mixture cool completely before assembling to prevent cheese from melting prematurely and bread from becoming soggy.
Use medium heat and be patient when grilling to ensure the cheese melts fully while achieving perfect golden-brown crust.
Press gently with spatula while cooking to help cheese melt evenly and create better contact between filling and bread.
Good to Know
Refrigerate assembled sandwiches up to 1 day, grape mixture up to 5 days.
Make grape mixture up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate.
Serve immediately while hot and cheese is melted.
Common Mistakes
Use medium heat to avoid burning bread before cheese melts.
Don't overfill with grape mixture to avoid messy eating.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
creamier texture
General Alternatives
may have seeds to remove
FAQ
Can I use regular Concord grapes instead of Thomcord?
Yes, but you'll need to remove the seeds after cooking. Thomcord grapes are seedless Concord varieties that make preparation much easier.
What if my grape mixture is too liquidy?
Continue cooking over medium heat until more liquid evaporates. The mixture should be jammy and spreadable when cooled.
How long will the grape mixture keep?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 5 days. It actually improves in flavor as it sits and can be used for other sandwiches.