Photo: Strolling of the Heifers / Flickr

While people all over the world love a great grilled cheese sandwich, it seems that some Canadian chefs have taken their passion for this humble sandwich to new lengths, and glamourised the humble grilled cheese in the process. Find out all about the great grilled cheese cook-off, then learn to make a fancy, winning grilled cheese sandwich at home.

The grate event

The official name of the event was The Dairy Farmers of Canada’s Grate Canadian Grilled Cheese cook-off, and celebrated grilled cheese in all of its guises. Solange Heiss, from Dairy Farmers of Canada, had the following to say: ‘Grilled cheese sandwiches stir up deep emotions in the hearts and stomachs of Canadians. It’s comfort food in the most classic sense.’ We’re sure she’s absolutely right, but Canadians aren’t the only to enjoy a great grilled cheese.

And the winner is…

Photo: Mr. T in DC / Flickr

Four chefs from Canada’s top restaurants competed, but there could be only one winner. The top sandwich came from Chef Michael Howell, and won praise for both its taste and appearance. This was no average sandwich, and beat fillings such as maple syrup and duck to earn its prize. The best part? You can recreate it at home.

The ‘grate’ grilled cheese winner

To make a sandwich just like the one that came first in the competition, cut open a ciabatta and spread with lemon aioli, then place a slice of Havarti cheese on one side. Top with sliced fig, two slices of thinly shaved Parma prosciutto, a few sprigs of arugula, and finally, another slice of the cheese. Toast in a panini press until the cheese is melted and the ciabatta is slightly marked, then slice in half and serve with salad in a vinaigrette dressing.