Sandwich recipes, fillings, and tips for the perfect snack or meal – Samsung Food

Sandwiches might just be the most popular lunch worldwide, we reckon. And definitely one of the easiest, most practical lunches out there. Legend has it that the sandwich owes its name to John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, in the 18th century. Known for his passion for gambling, the Earl desired a meal that wouldn’t distract him from his card games. His ingenious solution involved placing slices of meat between two pieces of bread, creating a portable and convenient snack. This practical invention quickly gained popularity and became known as a sandwich.

While the Earl of Sandwich popularized the concept, the idea of using bread as a vessel for fillings goes back even further. In ancient times, people in the Middle East and Mediterranean region would wrap meat, cheese, and vegetables in flatbreads or pita bread. This early form of sandwich can still be found in dishes like the Turkish doner kebab or the Greek gyros. Or even just wraps!

Sandwich Recipes and Common Types

We know that sandwich is a broad term, and that there are hundreds of thousands (or maybe even millions) of different sandwich recipes out there. Here are some favorite types, organized by country.

American Sandwich Recipes

1. Club Sandwich: The classic American club sandwich recipe consists of layers of bread, with fillings like turkey or chicken, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise. It’s a hearty and satisfying option commonly found in diners and delis across the United States. Some say it stands for ‘chicken lettuce under bacon’ but who knows!

2. Reuben: Originating in New York City, Reuben sandwich is a combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing, all grilled to perfection and served on rye bread.

British Sandwich Recipes

1. Coronation Chicken Sandwich: Coronation chicken sandwich was first invented for Queen Elizabeth II. The dish of coronation chicken itself is chicken, mayonnaise, curry powder, raisins, and almonds. Add it on a sandwich and voila! This regal sandwich is a British classic, bursting with unique flavors. Interestingly, 2023 saw another coronation dish for King Charles – but this time, it’s quiche – which we can’t see being turned into a sandwich recipe!
2. Ploughman’s Sandwich: Ploughman’s sandwich brings together ingredients such as cheese, pickles, salad vegetables, and savory chutney. It’s a wholesome and flavorsome option, perfect for picnics or a satisfying lunch.

Italian Sandwich Recipes

1. Panini: Panini is a beloved Italian creation made with Italian bread – anything except standard sliced white bread. It’s filled with almost whatever you want. Popular options include cured meats like salami, cheese, vegetables, and flavorful spreads – like pesto or tapenade. The sandwich is then grilled so you get that warm, crispy outside and gooey cheese inside.

2. Caprese Sandwich: Caprese sandwich pays homage to the flavors of Italy with the simple combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It’s a light and refreshing option, perfect for summer. And beats a caprese salad if you’re looking for something portable and filling!

Middle Eastern and Mediterranean Sandwiches

1. Falafel Pita: A popular Middle Eastern sandwich that features crispy falafel balls nestled in a warm pita bread. Topped with creamy tahini sauce, fresh vegetables, and tangy pickles, this sandwich gives you plenty of flavor and contrasting textures.
2. Shawarma: Originating from the Levantine region, shawarma is usually served in a wrap or pita bread with thinly sliced marinated chicken, beef, or lamb. This is then topped with tahini sauce and/or hummus, salad, and pickles. You can also add chili!

What pairs well with sandwiches?

When it comes to pairing sandwiches with side dishes, the goal is to complement the sandwich and sometimes, to make the overall meal more complete and filling Here are some ideas to consider:

• Chips or Fries. Serve your sandwich with a side of crispy potato chips or fries for a classic pairing. Opt for different flavors of chips to ramp up the flavors. Like salt and vinegar for a cheesy sandwich or barbecue for a salty sandwich. Or just add a dipping sauce for your fries!

• Seasonal Fruit. Complement your sandwich with a side of fresh fruit. Whether it’s a bowl of juicy watermelon or a mix of berries, they’re light and sweet, which balances out your savory sandwich nicely. Plus, it’s a great way to add some vitamins and minerals to your meal.
• Pickles and Olives. You can also add some tangy flavors to your sandwich by including a side of pickles or olives. Dill pickles, bread and butter pickles, or a variety of olives like Kalamata or green olives can provide a nice contrast.
• Vegetable Sticks and Dips. Create a light and crunchy side by serving vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers with a delicious dip. Guacamole, hummus, tzatziki, or ranch dressing are great options. This pairing adds freshness and offers a healthy option alongside your sandwich.
• Soup. If you are looking for a more hearty option, a bowl of soup would do the job and helps you add fiber too. For example, pair a grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Making the Perfect Sandwich

Sounds simple, right? Who even needs a sandwich recipe? Surely it’s just a case of pairing bread and toppings? Well…yes and no. You can be really creative with sandwiches. And it’s true, they’re almost always tasty. But if you want a really good sandwich, you have to be a bit more scientific than that!

5 Sandwich Tips

• Choose the Right Bread. The bread you choose can make or break your sandwich. Consider the texture, flavor, and sturdiness of the bread to complement your chosen fillings. Options range from soft white bread to crusty baguettes, whole wheat rolls, or even gluten-free alternatives.
• Balance Your Ingredients. To create a satisfying sandwich, layer your ingredients thoughtfully. Consider the flavors and textures, so you get the right balance between bread, fillings, and spreads. Aim for complementary flavors and varied textures. And remember to protect the bread from soggy ingredients like tomatoes!
• Cut the Crusts. Removing the crusts can give your sandwich a neater appearance and make it easier to eat. If you prefer to keep the crusts, try making them well-toasted to add extra flavor and crunch.
• Toast it. Toasting your sandwich not only adds a crispness but also enhances the flavors. Grilling or toasting your sandwich can melt cheese, make fillings warm, and change the overall taste and texture of the sandwich.
• Experiment with Fillings: One of the joys of sandwiches is the endless variety of fillings you can explore. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and try unique combinations! Consider different cheeses, exotic vegetables, meats, or even vegetarian options to discover your next favorite sandwich.

FAQs

The Crux (or is that crust?) of It

Sandwiches have come a long way from their humble origins to become a worldwide culinary sensation. From a classic American club sandwich or an exotic Middle Eastern falafel pita, there’s a sandwich to suit every taste. By understanding the origins, exploring regional variations, and following the tips for preparing the perfect sandwich, you can elevate this beloved dish to new heights. So go ahead, unleash your creativity, and start your journey on making your version of sandwich that will satisfy your cravings!