The Westin Kierland’s Brittlebush Bar & Grill Delights With Their Elevated Version
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the satisfaction of a perfectly crafted grilled cheese sandwich. At The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa’s renowned Brittlebush Bar & Grill, they take this classic to new heights with their Green Chile Pork Grilled Cheese. GOLF.com’s senior editor, Jessica Marksbury, hails this creation as one of the best sandwiches she has ever had, and we couldn’t agree more.
Created by Chef de Cuisine Thomas Lanoue based on a family recipe for green chili, this sandwich showcases a delightful blend of flavors. An exquisite mezcal-braised pork butt, enhanced with the smoky richness of menonita cheese, is sandwiched between two slices of locally sourced sourdough bread. The result is a grilled cheese experience that is both familiar and extraordinary.
The Journey to Grilled Cheese Greatness
To recreate The Westin Kierland’s Green Chile Pork Grilled Cheese, follow these steps:
- Begin with a boneless, skinless pork butt and generously season it with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Sear the pork over medium heat until it develops a delicious caramelized crust. Transfer the seared pork to a roasting pan.
- Roast fresh poblano, jalapeno, and hatch green chili peppers until their skins blister. Remove the skins, seeds, and stems, then add the peppers to the roasting pan with the pork.
- In a separate bowl, toss whole garlic cloves, red onions, yellow onions, scallions, and tomatoes with olive oil. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and roast under a broiler until soft and nicely charred. Add this combination to the roasting pan.
- Include fresh cilantro, oregano, thyme, and enough chicken stock to cover three-quarters of the pork butt. To infuse a smoky aroma, add a splash of mezcal.
- Cover the roasting pan with foil and braise the meat at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately six hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Once the pork is tender and succulent, remove it from the braising liquid and shred it. Blend the braising liquid until smooth, creating a luscious sauce.
Building the Perfect Sandwich
To assemble the ultimate grilled cheese experience, follow these instructions:
- Take two slices of sourdough bread and generously spread a rosemary compound butter on each side.
- Place the bread slices on a griddle or non-stick frying pan and top one slice with menonita cheese.
- In a separate sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add a portion of the shredded pork, searing it until it turns beautifully browned.
- Season the pork with salt and pepper and mix in a portion of the green chili sauce.
- Add the pork mixture to one slice of the bread and cover it with the second slice, completing the sandwich.
- Serve the grilled cheese masterpiece with a small dish of extra sauce for dipping.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What other variations can I try when making an elevated grilled cheese sandwich?
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are numerous possibilities to explore. Chef Lanoue suggests incorporating fresh vegetables like sliced tomatoes, Granny Smith apples, figs, or caramelized onions. He also recommends experimenting with chutneys, jams, deli meats, and pickles, which add various flavors and textures to the experience.
Are there any general tips for creating a perfect grilled cheese sandwich?
Absolutely! First and foremost, use high-quality ingredients, such as locally sourced bread and cheese. Be mindful of the grilling process, aiming for a golden brown crust while ensuring the cheese inside melts to perfection. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your favorite ingredients to personalize your sandwich.
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In conclusion, The Westin Kierland’s Green Chile Pork Grilled Cheese is a culinary masterpiece that satisfies cravings for comfort food. Chef Lanoue’s dedication to creating exceptional flavors and textures is evident in every bite. By following the meticulous steps outlined above, you can transport yourself to a world of gourmet grilled cheese delights.
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