Grinder Sandwich

Grinder Sandwich Recipe from France with Bell Pepper, Ham, and Provolone

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Grinder sandwiches, also known as sub sandwiches or hoagies, are a popular type of sandwich that originated in the United States. These sandwiches are typically made with a variety of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and condiments, all piled high on a long roll of bread. The name "grinder" is said to come from the fact that the sandwich is so large and hearty, it requires a lot of chewing, or "grinding," to eat.

History

The grinder sandwich is said to have originated in the Italian-American communities of the Northeastern United States in the early 20th century. It was originally created as a convenient and filling meal for Italian immigrant workers in the factories and shipyards of cities like New York and Philadelphia. Over time, the sandwich spread in popularity and became a staple of delis and sandwich shops across the country.

Ingredients

1 green bell pepper, cut into rings
1 clove of garlic, chopped
2 tbsp of CARAPELLI ® light olive oil
0.5 tsp of dried minced onion
0.5 lb (227 g) of CURE 81 ® ham, thinly sliced
1 tomato, thinly sliced
1 (14 oz (397 g)) loaf of french bread, split lengthwise
0.5 tsp of dried oregano leaves
4 oz (113 g) of thinly sliced provolone cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat and sauté bell pepper and garlic until the bell pepper is crisp-tender.
Toss the sautéed bell pepper with dried onion.
Remove the bell pepper from the skillet, but keep the oil mixture.
On the bottom half of the French bread, layer ham, tomato, and bell pepper.
Drizzle the reserved oil mixture over the top.
Sprinkle with oregano.
Top with cheese and place the remaining half of the bread on top.
Wrap the loaf in foil.
Bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

Variations

Feel free to customize this grinder sandwich with your favorite meats, cheeses, and vegetables. You can also experiment with different condiments, such as mustard, mayonnaise, or pesto, to create a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When making a grinder sandwich, it's important to choose high-quality ingredients, such as fresh vegetables, artisanal bread, and premium meats and cheeses. Be sure to slice your ingredients thinly and evenly to ensure that each bite of the sandwich is balanced and flavorful. Additionally, don't be afraid to get creative with your toppings and condiments to customize the sandwich to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this grinder sandwich with a side of potato chips, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. You can also pair it with pickles, olives, or pepperoncini for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious grinder sandwich is to layer the ingredients evenly and press the sandwich firmly together before baking. This will help the flavors meld together and create a cohesive and flavorful sandwich.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have all the ingredients for this grinder sandwich on hand, feel free to substitute with similar items. For example, you can use turkey or roast beef instead of ham, or mozzarella or provolone instead of the cheese.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the components of this grinder sandwich ahead of time and assemble it just before baking. This can help save time and make meal prep easier, especially if you're serving a crowd.

Presentation Ideas

To make this grinder sandwich look even more appetizing, you can garnish it with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, before serving. You can also cut it into smaller pieces for a party or gathering.

Pairing Recommendations

This grinder sandwich pairs well with a variety of beverages, such as soda, iced tea, or beer. You can also enjoy it with a glass of wine, such as a light red or white, for a more sophisticated pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers of this grinder sandwich, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply wrap the sandwich in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this grinder sandwich contains approximately 400 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this grinder sandwich contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body, so this sandwich can be a satisfying and filling meal.

Fats

This grinder sandwich contains about 20 grams of fat per serving. While fats are high in calories, they are also essential for the body's overall health and can help you feel full and satisfied after eating.

Proteins

With around 25 grams of protein per serving, this grinder sandwich is a good source of this essential nutrient. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an important component of a balanced diet.

Vitamins and minerals

This grinder sandwich is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the bell peppers and tomatoes, as well as calcium and phosphorus from the cheese. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This grinder sandwich contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (bread) allergens. It may also contain soy (from the oil) and sulfites (from the ham). Please be mindful of these allergens if you have dietary restrictions or food sensitivities.

Summary

Overall, this grinder sandwich is a balanced and satisfying meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoying this sandwich as part of a varied diet can help you meet your nutritional needs and enjoy a delicious meal.

Summary

In conclusion, this grinder sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. With its hearty combination of meats, cheeses, and vegetables, this sandwich is sure to please your taste buds and fill you up. Try making this recipe at home and enjoy a taste of Italian-American cuisine right in your own kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for a Grinder Sandwich. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting a friend in New Orleans. We had spent the morning exploring the French Quarter, and my friend suggested we stop for lunch at a local deli known for their delicious sandwiches.

As we walked into the deli, the aroma of freshly baked bread and sizzling meats filled the air. I scanned the menu board, trying to decide what to order, when my eyes landed on the Grinder Sandwich. It was described as a hearty combination of Italian meats, cheeses, and vegetables, all piled high on a crusty baguette. I knew immediately that I had to try it.

When the sandwich arrived at our table, I was taken aback by its size and beauty. Layers of thinly sliced salami, mortadella, provolone, and roasted red peppers peeked out from between the halves of the baguette. The sandwich was drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette dressing and sprinkled with fresh oregano. I took a bite, and my taste buds were transported to sandwich heaven.

I asked the owner of the deli for the recipe, and he kindly obliged. He explained that the Grinder Sandwich originated in New Orleans, where Italian immigrants had brought their culinary traditions and merged them with the local flavors. The sandwich had become a staple in the city, beloved by locals and tourists alike.

I returned home from my trip to New Orleans with the recipe for the Grinder Sandwich burning a hole in my pocket. I couldn't wait to recreate the flavors of that delicious sandwich in my own kitchen. I gathered the ingredients – Italian meats, cheeses, roasted red peppers, and a fresh baguette – and got to work.

I carefully sliced the meats and cheeses, arranging them in neat piles on the baguette. I added the roasted red peppers and a generous drizzle of vinaigrette dressing. As I took my first bite of the sandwich, I closed my eyes and savored the explosion of flavors in my mouth. It was as if I had been transported back to that deli in New Orleans.

Over the years, I have made the Grinder Sandwich countless times for family and friends. Each time, it is met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I am always happy to share the story of how I learned to make this delicious sandwich and the memories it holds for me.

The Grinder Sandwich has become a staple in my recipe collection, a reminder of that hot summer day in New Orleans and the culinary delights I discovered there. It is a dish that brings people together, sparking conversations and creating lasting memories. And for that, I am grateful.