The Ultimate Grilled Swedish Västerbotten Cheese Sandwich

Introduction

There is something truly magical about Swedish comfort food; it is simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying, relying on high-quality ingredients rather than complex techniques. At the center of this culinary tradition lies Västerbotten cheese, often revered as the "Emperor of Cheeses" in Sweden. It boasts a unique, complex flavor profile that is savory, nutty, and beautifully sharp—somewhere between an aged Parmesan and a mature cheddar. When you take this legendary cheese and melt it between two thick slices of rustic sourdough on an Arteflame grill, you elevate a standard lunch into a gourmet experience. The flat cooktop of the Arteflame provides the perfect surface to achieve an edge-to-edge golden crust that is shatteringly crisp, contrasting perfectly with the gooey, aromatic interior. This recipe is your ticket to a rustic Nordic meal that warms the soul and delights the palate.

Ingredients

Main Components

• 4 slices of high-quality rustic sourdough bread (thick cut)
• 2 cups Västerbotten cheese, freshly grated (substitute with a mix of sharp Cheddar and Parmesan if unavailable)
• 4 tablespoons salted butter, softened at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (optional, but recommended for tang)
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Begin by lighting your Arteflame grill. Build a medium-sized fire in the center to allow the flat steel cooktop to reach the optimal temperature.
2. You are aiming for a medium heat zone on the cooktop. Avoid the area directly next to the open flame, as it may burn the bread before the cheese melts. Aim for the surface to reach approximately 350°F to 400°F (175°C - 200°C).
3. Scrape the cooktop clean and apply a very thin layer of vegetable oil to season the surface before cooking.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. While the grill heats up, lay out your sourdough slices on a clean surface or cutting board.
2. Generously butter one side of each slice of bread. This buttered side will eventually face the grill to create that essential golden crust.
3. Flip the slices over. On the un-buttered side, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on two of the slices. This adds a subtle acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese.
4. Pile the grated Västerbotten cheese high onto the mustard-coated slices. Season with a generous crack of black pepper. top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side facing out.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

1. Place the assembled sandwiches directly onto the flat steel cooktop in the medium heat zone.
2. Let them grill undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes. Press down slightly with a spatula to ensure even contact with the griddle, which helps seal the bread and melt the cheese.
3. Check the bottom; once it is a deep golden brown, carefully flip the sandwich.
4. Grill the second side for another 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and oozing out the sides, and the bread is crispy.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the sandwiches from the grill and let them rest on a wire rack or wooden board for one minute. This prevents the hot cheese from burning your mouth and allows the filling to set slightly.
2. Cut the sandwiches in half diagonally.
3. Sprinkle with a little fresh dill if desired and serve immediately while hot and gooey.

Tips

To master this Swedish classic, the quality of the cheese is paramount. Västerbotten has a granular texture that melts uniquely; if you cannot find it, do not use pre-shredded bagged cheese, as the anti-caking agents prevent a smooth melt. Always grate your own block cheese for the best consistency. When grilling on the Arteflame, temperature control is key. If the bread is browning too fast but the cheese hasn't melted, slide the sandwiches toward the outer edge of the cooktop where the heat is gentler. Conversely, if you want a harder sear, move them closer to the center for the final thirty seconds. Additionally, using room-temperature butter ensures an even spread on the bread, preventing tearing and ensuring that the entire surface creates a uniform, caramelized crust.

Variations

While the classic version is divine, you can easily customize this sandwich to suit your taste or ingredients on hand. The sturdy nature of sourdough holds up well to additional fillings without getting soggy. Here are a few ways to twist the traditional recipe:

• The Forest Style: Add sautéed chanterelle mushrooms inside the sandwich for an earthy, authentic Swedish autumn flavor.
• The Smoky Twist: Add thin slices of smoked ham or prosciutto to introduce a savory, meaty element.
• Sweet & Savory: Spread a thin layer of cloudberry or fig jam on the inside of the bread to contrast the sharp salty cheese.
• Herb Infused: Mix chopped fresh chives and parsley into the grated cheese before assembling.
• The Kick: Add thin slices of pickled jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy variation.

Best pairings

A sandwich this rich requires beverages and sides that can cut through the fat or complement its savory notes. In Sweden, coffee is a surprisingly common pairing during "fika" (coffee break), but for a lunch or dinner setting, you have excellent options. A crisp, cold lager or pilsner works wonders, cleansing the palate between bites of sharp cheese. If you prefer wine, a white wine with high acidity, such as a Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc, balances the heaviness of the Västerbotten. For side dishes, nothing beats a classic tomato soup for dipping, or a Swedish-style cucumber salad (Pressgurka) with vinegar and dill to add a refreshing crunch and acidity that lightens the meal.

Conclusion

The Grilled Swedish Västerbotten Cheese Sandwich is more than just a quick meal; it is a celebration of Nordic flavors and the joy of outdoor cooking. By using the Arteflame grill, you achieve a textural contrast between the crunchy sourdough and the molten, robust cheese that is simply impossible to replicate in a toaster oven. Whether you are enjoying this as a solitary treat or serving it as a comfort food feast for friends and family, the combination of savory, sharp cheese and buttery bread is universally loved. We hope this recipe brings a little taste of Sweden to your backyard. Fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy one of the world’s most satisfying sandwiches.