Bushra Griffith
The chopped cheese sandwich is a New York City classic. It is made with ground beef, American cheese, and vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. The sandwich is cooked on a griddle and then chopped with the side of a spatula. The chopped part refers to the finely chopped beef before the cheese is added on top. The sandwich is then placed in a sturdy bun or hoagie roll. While some people compare it to a cheeseburger, others insist that it is unique and tastes delicious.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Taste | Greasy, melty, gooey, plasticky, juicy, satisfying, delicious, good, fantastic, tasty |
| Ingredients | Beef, American cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onions, tomatoes, lettuce, mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oil, butter, Adobo seasoning |
| Preparation | Meat is chopped into small pieces and cooked with cheese on a griddle or skillet, placed in a bun, and served immediately |
| Origin | New York City, specifically Harlem, Spanish Harlem, or the Bronx |
| Cultural Significance | Mentioned in hip-hop culture and by Anthony Bourdain; considered a specialty of working-class neighborhoods and a blending of immigrant stories |
| Variations | Meat can be ground chicken, turkey, or vegan; cheese can be Cheddar; bread can be a hoagie roll, hero roll, kaiser roll, baguette, hot dog bun, or sub roll |
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What You'll Learn
Chopped cheese is a New York City staple
At its core, a chopped cheese sandwich consists of seasoned ground beef, onions, and cheese. The beef is cooked on a griddle until browned, then chopped into small pieces using a spatula or spoon. The onions are often sautéed separately and mixed with the beef, along with seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Adobo. The "'chopped'" part of the name refers to this process of chopping the beef before adding the cheese.
The type of cheese used is typically American cheese, valued for its meltability and gooey texture. However, some variations use medium or sharp cheddar for extra flavour. The cheese is added directly to the beef mixture, acting as a binder and creating a cohesive mass of meat and cheese. This combination is then scooped into a sturdy bun, such as a hero roll or hoagie roll, and topped with fresh vegetable toppings like shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and ketchup.
The chopped cheese sandwich holds a special place in New York City's culinary culture. It is often compared to other iconic sandwiches like the bacon, egg, and cheese, or the pastrami on rye. While some may argue that it is simply a variation of a cheeseburger or cheesesteak, New Yorkers defend its unique status, considering it an "if you know, you know" kind of sandwich. The chopped cheese has even gained recognition outside of NYC, with name drops in hip-hop culture and mentions by notable figures like Anthony Bourdain, further solidifying its place as a beloved staple of the city.
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It's like a cheeseburger or cheesesteak, but better
The chopped cheese sandwich is a New York City classic. It's a sandwich made with ground beef, American cheese, and toppings such as lettuce and tomatoes. The beef is cooked on a griddle and then chopped with the side of a spatula, and the cheese is added and chopped into the beef until it melts. The mixture is then placed on a roll, which can be a hero roll, kaiser roll, or hoagie bun, and topped with more toppings.
While some people might compare it to a cheeseburger or cheesesteak, there are some key differences that make chopped cheese stand out. For one, the beef in a chopped cheese is cooked in small pieces, or "tiny free-form meatballs," rather than as a patty. This gives the sandwich a different texture and allows the cheese to act as a binder, holding the beef and onion mixture together.
Another difference is in the cheese itself. While a cheeseburger might use a slice of cheese, the chopped cheese sandwich uses shredded or sliced American cheese, which melts into the beef and creates a gooey, creamy texture. This type of cheese also has a high meltability, which means it stays creamy and doesn't become tough or rubbery.
Finally, the chopped cheese sandwich has a unique history and cultural significance. It's a product of working-class neighborhoods and a blending of immigrant stories. It's also been popularized by name drops in hip-hop culture and by chefs who have created upscale versions of the sandwich. So, while it might be similar to a cheeseburger or cheesesteak in some ways, the chopped cheese sandwich has its own distinct character and flavor that makes it a beloved staple of New York City cuisine.
In conclusion, the chopped cheese sandwich is a delicious and unique creation. It's a sandwich that's greater than the sum of its parts, and while it might be compared to a cheeseburger or cheesesteak, it has its own special place in the hearts and stomachs of New Yorkers and sandwich lovers everywhere. So, if you're ever in the Big Apple and craving something greasy and satisfying, be sure to try the famous chopped cheese!
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It's affordable, appealing, and customisable
The chopped cheese sandwich is a New York City classic, and it's no surprise that it has become a beloved staple for many New Yorkers. One of the reasons for its popularity is undoubtedly its affordability. As a product of working-class neighbourhoods, the chopped cheese sandwich offers a hearty and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
The sandwich is also highly appealing to a wide range of tastes and preferences. While the traditional chopped cheese features ground beef, American cheese, and toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, it can be easily customised to suit individual tastes. For those who want more flavour, swapping in medium or sharp cheddar instead of the standard American cheese is a popular option. The meat options are also flexible, with ground chicken, turkey, or even vegan alternatives readily available for those who prefer them.
The chopped cheese sandwich truly shines in its customisability. It can be made as simple or as extravagant as desired. For a quick and easy meal, the sandwich can be kept basic, with just the essential ingredients. However, for those who want to elevate their sandwich experience, additional toppings and condiments such as ketchup, mayonnaise, and adobo seasoning can be added to create a more indulgent treat.
The versatility of the chopped cheese sandwich extends beyond its ingredients. It can be prepared in a variety of ways to cater to different preferences and occasions. For those on the go, a smaller roll or even a bagel can be used, providing a convenient and portable option. On the other hand, a heartier hero roll can be utilised when a more substantial meal is desired. The chopped cheese sandwich is a versatile delight that can be tailored to suit any appetite or occasion.
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It's made with ground beef, American cheese, and veggies
Chopped cheese is a beloved New York City sandwich, often regarded as one of the city's best. It is made with ground beef, American cheese, and veggies. The beef is cooked with seasonings and onions, then chopped up with a spatula and mixed with the cheese until melted. This mixture is then scooped into a sturdy bun and topped with veggies such as lettuce, tomatoes, and sometimes, ketchup and mayo.
The sandwich is said to be affordable, appealing, and customisable, making it a popular choice for many. It is especially well-known as a late-night snack, satisfying those greasy food cravings. While some may compare it to a cheeseburger, others argue that the chopped cheese has a unique texture and preparation method that sets it apart.
To make an authentic chopped cheese sandwich, ground beef is recommended over a beef patty, as it allows for a more even distribution of meat and cheese throughout the sandwich. The beef should be cooked on a griddle or skillet over medium heat, and a cast-iron skillet is ideal for achieving an even crust on the patties.
When it comes to cheese, American cheese is the traditional choice, known for its meltability and gooeyness. However, some opt for cheddar or other types of cheese for a stronger flavour. As for the bread, a hero or hoagie roll is commonly used, but alternatives such as kaiser rolls, baguettes, or hot dog buns can also be used.
The chopped cheese sandwich has become an iconic part of New York City cuisine, with many fond memories associated with it. Its fame has spread beyond the city, thanks to mentions in hip-hop culture and by celebrity chefs, sparking interest in this humble sandwich from all over.
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It's quick and easy to make at home
Chopped cheese is a beloved sandwich that is quick and easy to make at home. It is a New York City staple, often sold at bodegas, and is commonly made with ground beef, seasonings, and onions, cooked on a griddle, and then chopped with a spatula. The cheese is then added and melted into the mixture, which is then placed into a sturdy bun with veggie toppings such as lettuce and tomatoes.
To make chopped cheese at home, start by dividing and toasting the buns. In a skillet or pan, add butter and sauté onions until fragrant. Push the onions to the side and add the ground beef. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and sear on both sides for 2-4 minutes. Next, slowly break apart the beef and mix it with the onions. Once the beef is fully cooked, divide it into portions and add the cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted, and then use a spatula to chop the cheese into the beef mixture. Finally, transfer each portion to the toasted buns and add toppings such as lettuce and tomatoes.
There are a few variations to making chopped cheese at home. For example, some recipes suggest using a blend of cumin, coriander, garlic, oregano, annatto, and salt and pepper for seasoning. Additionally, while traditional chopped cheese sandwiches use American cheese, any type of cheese can be used. Furthermore, while chopped cheese is typically made with ground beef, some recipes suggest using ground chuck, which has a higher fat ratio to ensure the meat is tender and juicy.
Chopped cheese is a quick and easy meal that can be made at home, and it is a great option for those who want to enjoy a taste of New York City without having to leave the comfort of their own kitchen.
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Frequently asked questions
Chopped cheese is a sandwich made with ground beef, cheese, and vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, and lettuce. The beef is cooked on a griddle and then "chopped" with a spatula, after which cheese is added and melted into the mixture. The mixture is then placed on a roll or bun and served.
Chopped cheese is a beloved staple in New York City, especially after a night out. It is considered by some to be better than a burger, with a unique taste and texture. However, others believe it is overrated and just a glorified cheeseburger.
American cheese is the traditional and most common choice for chopped cheese sandwiches. Its meltability and gooeyness are said to perfectly complement the other ingredients. However, other types of cheese such as cheddar can also be used if desired.
Chopped cheese is typically served on a hero or hoagie roll, but other options such as kaiser rolls, baguettes, or hot dog buns can also be used.
To make chopped cheese at home, you will need ground beef, American cheese, a roll or bun, and vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, and lettuce. Cook the ground beef on a griddle or in a skillet, chopping it with a spatula as it cooks. Add the cheese and let it melt, then mix it into the beef. Place the mixture on the roll or bun and add your desired toppings.
