GOOEY, OOZING CHEESE IS ALWAYS A HIT, especially when it’s sandwiched between two slices of crisp toasted bread. The contrast of rich Brie and the sweet and spicy chili sauce in this combination is sublime. Leave the rind on the Brie; it’s a natural, edible part of the cheese.

　　

Ingredients

makes 4 sandwiches

　　8 ounces Brie-style cheese, cut into 8 slices

　　8 slices hearty artisanal white bread

　　4 tablespoons Sweet Thai Chili Sauce (recipe follows)

　　

Sweet Thai Chili Sauce

4 garlic cloves, peeled

　　1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

　　1 1/2 teaspoons red pepper flakes

　　1/2 cup cider vinegar

　　2/3 cup gently packed light brown sugar

　　(makes 1 cup)

　　

Step 1

Lay 2 slices of cheese on each of 4 slices of the bread. Spread 1 tablespoon chili sauce on each of the remaining 4 slices bread and lay them, sauce side down, on top of the cheese.

　　

Step 2

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and put the sandwiches in the pan. Cook until the cheese has melted and the bread is golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Serve warm.

　　

Sweet Thai Chili Sauce

Step 3

Using a mortar and pestle, pound or mash the garlic and salt together. Stir in the pepper flakes and set aside.

　　

Step 4

Place the vinegar in a small, nonreactive saucepan (see Note). Bring it to a boil over high heat. Stir in the sugar, reduce the heat, and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic mixture and cook for 1 minute. Remove the pan from the heat. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before using.

　　Pure Flavor