Photo Credit: James Martin, CBS Interactive
Warning: Do not try this at home!
Takeru Koboyashi broke a new record at SXSW on Monday when he ate 13 grilled cheese sandwiches in one minute. We’re not sure whether to be appalled or jealous, but it’s impressive nonetheless (especially considering the fact that he weighs in around 130 pounds).
In 2006, the Japanese competitor reached fame when he devoured 53.5 hot dogs in 10 minutes at the Nathan Hot Dog Eating Contest. He held the record for nearly six years and has been an ongoing source of controversy for the annual competition ever since. (Due to sponsorship disagreements, he refused to compete in 2010 and was arrested for jumping the stage at the event wearing a “Free Kobi” shirt. In 2011, he was taken down from Major League Eating’s Wall of Fame.) Who knew the food arena could be so scandalous?
Competitive eating is his sport, and there is a strategy behind each bite. Kobayashi executed grilled cheese victory by dunking each sandwich into water before swallowing. So while we are intrigued by his consumption capabilities, you can see why we don’t recommend following his footsteps. Grilled cheese sandwiches are too scrumptious to make soggy. They are meant to be savored, “ooh-ed” and “ahh-ed.”
The video of Kobayashi’s win will likely ruin your appetite, but a glance over our collection will fix your grilled cheese craving in no time. These recipes will inspire you to expand your repertoire past American cheese and run to the store in search of some Brie. Or perhaps you’ll drop everything to caramelize some onions for a subtle hint of sweetness and texture. You really can’t go wrong with any of these mouthwatering cheese pairings. Add some bacon, we dare you.
Some of our favorite recipes for cheesy inspiration:
Michael’s “Grown Up” Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Chuck’s Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions
Kelsey’s Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Bacon and Apples
Giada’s Panino alla Margherita
More grilled cheese on Devour: NYC’s Grilled Cheese Champion Crowned at The Big Cheesy
It's incredible alright but wow it's really gross too… 13 in one minute? Wow.
Love to have this book, I'm a cater and your food looks great