NATIONAL GRILLED CHEESE DAY

Grilled cheese sandwiches are one of the most popular fast foods in the US. This comfort food is made using only three ingredients, bread, butter, and cheese. It is easy to make, and its aroma awakens the taste buds. On 12th April every year, people across the US celebrate National Grilled Cheese Day.

History of National Grilled Cheese Day

Just like most food holidays, the origin of National Grilled Cheese Day is not known. The grilled cheese, however, has a fascinating history.

Ancient Romans were the first to cook the bread and cheese sandwich. As time went by, other cultures adopted the dish but altered it to fit their preference. The French people used ham and cheese to make the treat. In Switzerland, it was a tradition to melt the cheese and toast the bread before making grilled cheese.

In 1911, the processed cheese was popularized in the US after its invention by James L Kraft. Its affordability and availability made it even more popular.

In 1912, a bread slicing machine was invented by Frederick Rohwedder, and this made it easy to make grilled cheese. However, this was short-lived since the machine was destroyed in a fire that same year.

In 1928, another version of bread slicing machine was availed, and several bakers bought them. Soon after, the bakers learned how to put the cheese together in the bread, and the grilled cheese became an American staple.

During World War II, many soldiers and sailors took plenty of grilled cheese sandwiches with them. This introduced the grilled cheese to Europeans, and slowly, it became a worldwide sensation.

Interestingly, this comfort dish was initially called the Cheese Dream. It was in the 1960s that the word grilled cheese sandwich was coined.

Today, the original version of grilled cheese has been altered, and people make it in the way that appeals to them.

How to Celebrate National Grilled Cheese Day

Grill up your best version of this iconic version at home. You can have it traditionally or spice it up with some pineapple, bacon, mayonnaise, and pepperoni. The internet has a variety of National Grilled Cheese Day recipes you can try out. Remember grilled cheese and friends go together. Invite your friends over and prepare grilled cheese as finger food.

If you don’t want to make the grilled cheese at home, visit a nearby bakery to satisfy your taste buds. Most of the restaurants and bakeries treat their customers to incredible National Grilled Cheese Day deals and freebies. Be sure to check what your favorite joint has on offer.

Don’t forget to take pictures while enjoying your treat. Share the beautiful moments with your loved on social media using the hashtag # NationalGrilledCheeseDay

Why Celebrate National Grilled Cheese Day

Grilled cheese is considered comfort food for most Americans. It replenishes good memories in life. How our moms made grilled cheese sandwiches for us as kids and growing up craving something warm and fulfilling like the grilled cheese.

One good thing with grilled cheese is that it goes well with just everything. From grilled cheese with tomato soup, salad, milkshakes to soups of all kinds. Adding herb infused oils and sautéed vegetables can also take this comfort food to another great level.

National Grilled Cheese Day also offers us an excellent opportunity to explore the cheese world. Explore cheese by texture, country, and variety and try making grilled cheese from it. You can also make cheese combination during the preparation to elevate your grilled cheese experience.

Interesting Facts about Grilled Cheese

- An average piece of grilled cheese has approximately 300 calories.

- The most popular cheese varieties for this sandwich are Cheddar, American, Mozzarella, and Provolone.

- In 2006, Joey Chestnut broke the world record after eating 47 grilled cheese sandwiches.

- In 2004, eBay sold the Virgin Mary Grilled Cheese for $28000.

- Grilled cheese is the second most loved comfort food by Americans with Pizza holding the first position.