Singaporean Cheese Toast

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Spanish Bocadillo de queso is transformed into a Singaporean delight by incorporating local flavors and ingredients. The original dish typically features a simple combination of cheese and bread, while the Singaporean version adds a spicy sambal spread and pickled cucumber for a burst of flavor. The use of cheddar and mozzarella cheese gives it a creamy and melty texture, enhancing the overall experience. We alse have the original recipe for Bocadillo de queso, so you can check it out.

• 4 slices of bread 4 slices of bread
• 2 tablespoons sambal paste 2 tablespoons sambal paste
• 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
• 100g (3.5 oz) cheddar cheese, grated 100g (3.5 oz) cheddar cheese, grated
• 100g (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, grated 100g (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, grated
• Butter, for spreading Butter, for spreading

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
3. 3.
   Place the bread slices, buttered side down, on a baking sheet.
4. 4.
   Spread a generous amount of sambal paste on the other side of each bread slice.
5. 5.
   Layer the pickled cucumber slices on top of the sambal paste.
6. 6.
   In a bowl, mix the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese together.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the cucumber slices.
8. 8.
   Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
10. 10.
    Cut each slice of toast into halves or quarters and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sambal paste — Adjust the amount of sambal paste according to your spice preference. You can also make your own sambal paste by blending red chili peppers, garlic, shallots, and shrimp paste.
• Pickled cucumber — If you prefer a milder flavor, you can rinse the pickled cucumber slices before using them in the recipe.
• Cheddar and mozzarella cheese — Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda or Swiss, to add your own twist to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, sprinkle some chopped spring onions or cilantro on top of the melted cheese before serving.
• If you don't have access to sambal paste, you can substitute it with sriracha or any other spicy chili sauce.
• To make it a heartier meal, you can add a slice of ham or bacon between the cheese and cucumber layers.
• If you prefer a crispier texture, you can toast the bread slices before assembling the sandwich.
• Serve the Singaporean Cheese Toast with a side of tomato ketchup or chili sauce for dipping.

Serving advice

Serve the Singaporean Cheese Toast hot, either as a standalone snack or as part of a brunch spread. It pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Singaporean Cheese Toast on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped spring onions or cilantro. The vibrant colors of the sambal paste and pickled cucumber will make the dish visually appealing.