Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons canola oil
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large onions, sliced
  • 2 teaspoons sherry vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 12 slices rustic Italian bread (each about 1/2-inch thick)
  • 8 ounces Gruyere, thinly sliced

Method

  • Heat the canola oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large saute pan over medium heat.
  • When the butter is melted, add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until dark brown and caramelized, about 25 minutes.
  • Add the vinegar, sugar and 2 tablespoons water, scrapping up any dark bits that have accumulated on the bottom of the pan.
  • Continue to cook until all the liquid has evaporated.
  • Transfer the onions to a bowl and reserve.
  • Butter 1 side of each bread slice.
  • Lay 6 slices butter-side down on a work surface.
  • Top each with 2 slices of Gruyere, a dollop of the onions and 2 more slices of Gruyere.
  • Top with another slice of bread, butter-side up.
  • Heat a cast-iron griddle over medium heat.
  • Add the sandwiches and cook until the cheese begins to melt and the bread is golden brown, 2 to 4 minutes.
  • Flip and continue to cook until golden brown and the cheese is melted through, 2 to 4 minutes.
  • Cut in half and serve immediately.