Patrick Oconnell
The classic ham, cheese, and pickle sandwich can be made in a variety of ways and with a variety of ingredients. The type of bread used can be anything from sourdough to Pullman, and the cheese can be cheddar, Red Leicester, Gruyère, or mozzarella. The pickle can be a chutney, or you can make your own by tossing cucumbers with salt, dill, peppercorns, and mustard seeds. You can also add condiments such as mayonnaise, mustard, and hot sauce.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bread | Thick slices of sturdy bread (e.g. sourdough) |
| Butter/Mayonnaise | Butter or mayonnaise spread on the outside of the bread |
| Cheese | Cheddar, Red Leicester, Mozzarella, Gruyère, Goat Cheese, Pimento Cheese |
| Ham | Prosciutto, Smoked Ham |
| Pickles | Dill pickle chips, Homemade, Small or large chunks |
| Other Ingredients | Mustard, Radishes, Red Onion, Parsley, Piquillo Peppers |
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What You'll Learn
Use thick slices of sturdy bread, such as sourdough
For a ham, cheese, and pickle sandwich, it's important to use thick slices of sturdy bread, such as sourdough. This is especially important if you're planning to grill the sandwich, as a sturdier bread will hold up better to the heat and weight of the fillings. Sourdough, in particular, has a thick, chewy crust and a soft, airy interior that can stand up to the heartier ingredients in your sandwich.
When using sourdough or another sturdy bread, you can toast or grill your sandwich without worrying about it falling apart. To grill your ham, cheese, and pickle sandwich, butter the outside of the bread instead of the inside. This will give the sandwich a crispy, golden exterior and help it cook evenly. Fill your sandwich by stacking the ingredients in the following order: cheese, pickle, and then more cheese. This order will prevent the pickle from seeping into the bread and making it soggy.
If you're using a softer type of bread that's more prone to sogginess, you can also try toasting or grilling the bread before adding your fillings. This will create a barrier between the bread and the toppings, helping to keep it from getting soggy too quickly. Alternatively, you can spread a layer of mayonnaise on the inside of the bread before adding the fillings. Mayonnaise acts as a barrier and can help prevent the bread from becoming too soggy.
In addition to sourdough, other types of sturdy bread that you can use for a ham, cheese, and pickle sandwich include Pullman loaf and brioche. These breads have a denser texture and a thicker crust, which can hold up well to the weight and moisture of the fillings. When choosing bread for this type of sandwich, look for thicker slices that will provide a good base for the hearty ingredients.
Using thick slices of sturdy bread, such as sourdough, is a key component in creating a delicious and structurally sound ham, cheese, and pickle sandwich. It ensures that your sandwich stays together, grills evenly, and provides a pleasing texture contrast to the soft fillings. So, don't skimp on the bread—it's an essential foundation for this classic flavour combination.
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Spread mayonnaise on the bread slices
To make a delicious ham, cheese, and pickle sandwich, spreading mayonnaise on the bread slices is a great first step. You can spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread or on both sides, depending on your preference. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try melting a couple of tablespoons of mayonnaise and adding some cooked onion, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper to create a distinctive flavour boost. This savoury spread will enhance the overall taste of your sandwich.
When using mayonnaise as a spread, it's important to ensure that you are using fresh, good-quality mayonnaise. This will make a difference in the overall freshness and flavour of your sandwich. You can also consider toasting the bread slightly before spreading the mayonnaise, creating a subtle crunch beneath the creamy spread. This can be done by buttering the bread slices and toasting them in a skillet or toaster until they are lightly golden.
If you're looking for a more indulgent option, you can spread a generous amount of mayonnaise on your bread slices. This will add a rich, creamy texture to your sandwich. However, if you prefer a lighter touch, a thin layer of mayonnaise will still provide flavour without overwhelming the other ingredients. Experiment with different amounts to find your preferred balance.
To enhance the flavour and texture of your sandwich even further, consider adding other spreads or ingredients to the mayonnaise. For example, mixing in some mustard or herbs can create a tangy and savoury flavour profile. You could also try spreading a layer of softened butter on the bread before applying the mayonnaise for an extra decadent touch.
Finally, remember to taste the mayonnaise before spreading it on your bread slices. This will ensure that it complements the flavours of the ham, cheese, and pickle. If you're using a pre-made mayonnaise, you can adjust the taste by adding spices, herbs, or other seasonings. By taking the time to prepare and taste the mayonnaise, you can ensure that it elevates the flavours of your ham, cheese, and pickle sandwich.
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Combine different types of cheese, such as mature cheddar and red Leicester
Combining different types of cheese, such as mature cheddar and red Leicester, is a great way to elevate your classic ham, cheese, and pickle sandwich. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you create a delicious and flavourful sandwich:
Choosing the Cheese
The mature cheddar and red Leicester combination is a popular choice for this sandwich. Mature cheddar has a strong, sharp, and salty flavour that pairs well with the sweetness of the pickle. Red Leicester adds a creamy texture and a mild, nutty flavour that complements the mature cheddar. You can adjust the proportions of each cheese to your taste, or even add more varieties, such as substituting Price's Pimento Cheese for one of the cheeses if you want a Southern twist.
Preparing the Cheese
You can slice or grate the cheese. Slicing the cheese into wedges creates a classic look, while grating the cheese ensures better coverage and can make it easier to eat. If you decide to grate the cheese, combine the mature cheddar and red Leicester in a bowl first for even distribution throughout the sandwich.
Assembling the Sandwich
Start by buttering one side of your bread and spreading mayonnaise on the other. You can also add a touch of mustard to the mayonnaise for an extra kick. Next, spread a generous amount of pickle on the bread. If you're using thick slices of sturdy bread, like sourdough, you may want to butter the outside of the bread instead of the inside to prevent the pickle from seeping through.
Add a layer of cheese, then your ham, and if you'd like, some spinach or other greens. You can also sprinkle over some red onion and radishes that have been lightly pickled in red wine vinegar and caster sugar. Top it off with another layer of cheese to create a barrier that will help keep the pickle from making your bread soggy. Finally, add the second slice of bread, buttered-side down, and gently press your sandwich together.
Serving Suggestions
Cut your sandwich diagonally and serve it as-is, or toast it in a pan over medium heat until both sides are golden and the centre is gooey for a toastie version. This sandwich pairs well with ready-salted crisps or chips to balance out the tangy flavour. Enjoy your delicious ham, cheese, and pickle sandwich with a combination of mature cheddar and red Leicester!
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Add piquillo peppers for extra flavour
If you're looking to add a little extra something to your ham, cheese, and pickle sandwich, consider adding piquillo peppers. Piquanté peppers, also known as piquillos, are a variety of chili pepper that is commonly used in Spanish cuisine. They have a sweet and tangy flavour that can complement the other ingredients in your sandwich.
When it comes to preparing the piquillo peppers for your sandwich, you can roast them to bring out their natural sweetness. If you're short on time, you can also purchase them already roasted and jarred. Simply slice the peppers into thin strips or chop them into small pieces, and you're ready to start assembling your sandwich.
Start by spreading a layer of mayonnaise or butter on your bread of choice. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even mix in some ground mustard and cayenne pepper to give your spread a little kick. Then, layer on your favourite type of cheese. A sharp cheddar or a creamy Gruyère would pair well with the piquillo peppers.
Next, add a layer of sliced ham. If you're feeling fancy, you can use prosciutto for an extra indulgent touch. Now, it's time for the star ingredient—layer on those piquillo peppers! You can add them whole or chop them up, depending on your preference. Finally, top it off with some crunchy dill pickles and the other slice of bread.
To take your sandwich to the next level, you can grill it. Butter the outside of the bread and cook your sandwich in a skillet or on a griddle over medium heat until the bread is golden and toasted. The result? A warm, oozy, delicious ham, cheese, pickle, and piquillo pepper sandwich that's sure to satisfy your cravings.
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Include extra toppings such as red onion, radishes, and parsley
If you're looking to elevate your classic ham, cheese, and pickle sandwich, consider adding extra toppings such as red onion, radishes, and parsley. These toppings will not only add a crunchy texture but also bring a burst of flavour to your sandwich.
For a tangy twist, finely slice some red onion and radishes, and place them in a small bowl with red wine vinegar and caster sugar. Let them lightly pickle for about 20 minutes. In the meantime, you can start assembling the rest of your sandwich. Spread a generous amount of mayo and mustard on your bread slices—this will serve as a flavourful base for your sandwich.
Now it's time to layer on the toppings. Start with a generous helping of smoked ham, followed by fresh parsley, which will add a bright, herbal note to your sandwich. Drain the onions and radishes from the pickling liquid and pat them dry before laying them on top of the parsley. The pickled vegetables will add a pleasant tang and crunch to your sandwich.
Finally, top it all off with a good sprinkling of cheddar cheese. Close your sandwich with another slice of bread, and you're almost ready to serve. To bring all the flavours together, lightly toast your sandwich in a skillet or sandwich press until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted. Cut your sandwich diagonally, and serve it warm for the ultimate indulgent experience.
With these extra toppings, your ham, cheese, and pickle sandwich will be taken to the next level, offering a delightful combination of flavours and textures in every bite.
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Frequently asked questions
You can add some mustard, onion, and parsley to your sandwich. If you want to get even more adventurous, you can make your own pickles and pimento cheese spread.
To make homemade pickles, toss sliced cucumbers with salt and leave them to sit for an hour. Then, boil the cucumbers with vinegar, sugar, garlic, and a spice bag made of cheesecloth containing peppercorns, dill seeds, mustard seeds, and fresh dill. After boiling for 5 minutes, chill the cucumbers in ice water for an hour.
To make pimento cheese, melt mayonnaise in a skillet and add onion, dry mustard, and cayenne. You can substitute piquillo peppers for the pimentos to add extra flavor.
For a regular sandwich, you can use any type of bread. However, if you want to make a grilled cheese or toastie, you should use a sturdy, thick-sliced bread like sourdough.
