Exploring the Authenticity of Nate's Grilled Cheese in 'The Devil Wears Prada'

In the The Devil Wears Prada series, viewers witness the fast-paced and oftentimes stressful life of Andrea, a young woman working as a fashion editor's assistant at Runway magazine. While the show is rich in fashion and style, one moment stands out for food enthusiasts: when Andrea's boyfriend, Nate, makes her a grilled cheese sandwich. The authenticity of the ingredients used, however, has sparked curiosity among fans.

The Grammatically Correct Jarlsberg

One significant aspect of Nate's grilled cheese is the use of Jarlsberg cheese. In the episode, he specifically mentions, "It's on rye, with what I think is 8 of Jarlsberg." This fact has led some to question the grammatical correctness of his statement. Strictly speaking, it would be more correct to say 'eight pieces of Jarlsberg' rather than '8 of Jarlsberg.' However, in a casual conversation, this slight grammatical error is often overlooked.

The Flavor Profile of Jarlsberg

Jarlberg cheese, as mentioned by Nate, is a semi-soft cheese made from cow's milk. It has a sweet and slightly nutty flavor, which pairs well with the crustiness of rye bread. The cheese is famous for its distinctive orange color, which comes from annatto, a vegetable dye that is added during the cheese-making process to enhance its appearance.

Griddled Perfection

The griddling of the sandwich is crucial to achieve the right texture and flavor. Grilled cheese made with rye bread is often less commonly seen but can provide a unique, hearty taste. The addition of Jarlsberg cheese to this mix promises a combination of gooey, melted cheese and the toasty, crunchy texture of the rye bread.

To achieve the perfect grilled cheese, follow these steps:

Preheat your pan: On medium heat, place a non-stick pan or a cast-iron skillet and allow it to heat up for a few moments. Prepare the toppings: Place 8-10 slices of Jarlsberg cheese and 2 slices of rye bread on a plate, ready for grilling. Grill the sandwich: Place the slices of rye bread, cheese side down, in the heated pan. Let them cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melty, then flip the sandwich and cook the other side until it's also golden brown. Cover for added flavor: Optionally, cover the sandwich with a lid to steam the cheese and allow it to melt further. Remove from heat once the cheese has fully melted and the bread is lightly toasted. Serve immediately: Enjoy your grilled cheese sandwich hot, with a side of your favorite condiments, like ketchup, mayo, or mustard.

The Cultural Impact

'The Devil Wears Prada' has left an indelible mark on pop culture, and its food-centric moments have not gone unnoticed. Discussions about Nate's grilled cheese sandwich show how deeply ingrained the show's food scenes have become in the minds of its viewers. The fact that the show features such a straightforward, yet intriguing food moment adds to its relatability and appeal to a wide audience.

The grilled cheese not only serves as a culinary moment in the series, but it also offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the characters. It reminds us that even in high-pressure environments, simple, comforting foods can bring joy and a sense of normalcy. This blend of everyday comfort food and the high-stakes world of New York fashion encapsulates the duality of the show and keeps fans engaged with discussions around its food scenes.

Fan Engagement and Nostalgia

Sequels and adaptations, such as the 2023 film 'The Almost Impossible', continue to honor the original's themes and storylines. Discussions like these about the grilled cheese sandwich reveal the lasting impact of the show's cultural references. Fan engagement around calling attention to the more mundane and down-to-earth moments in the series, such as a grilled cheese sandwich, highlights how these small, quotidian moments contribute to the show's legacy.

Conclusion

The moments of comfort and down-to-earth living in The Devil Wears Prada are just as important as its extravagant fashion. The grilled cheese sandwich, made by Nate, with Jarlsberg cheese on rye bread, is a testament to this. While the sandwich itself might seem simple, the cultural significance of the moment cannot be overstated. It invites viewers to enjoy the show not just for its opulence, but for its everyday simplicity and the relatable moments hidden within the high fashion narrative.

So, the next time you're craving a grilled cheese, perhaps a jar of Jarlsberg cheese and some rye bread are all you need to recreate a piece of 'The Devil Wears Prada' in your own kitchen. Enjoy the comfort and simplicity of this iconic sandwich, a tribute to both the show and the everyday bliss it brings.