The Best Cheeses For An Italian Hoagie

The Italian hoagie is a sandwich that's made on a long hoagie roll. The type of cheese used on an Italian hoagie depends on the recipe and the region. Some recipes suggest using provolone, which one source claims is non-negotiable, while others suggest using mozzarella, or a mix of five Italian cheeses.

Provolone is the best cheese for an Italian hoagie

Provolone is a non-negotiable ingredient in an Italian hoagie. It is a must-have, along with the right kind of bread, meat, and vegetables. The cheese is key to the sandwich's flavor and authenticity.

Provolone is a sharp, tangy cheese that adds a distinct flavor to the hoagie. It is also a relatively mild cheese, so it won't overpower the other ingredients. The cheese is usually sliced thinly, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the other components of the sandwich.

The cheese is also versatile and pairs well with the other traditional Italian hoagie ingredients, such as salami, ham, pepperoni, capicola, prosciutto, mortadella, and vegetables like tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and peppers.

The combination of provolone with these ingredients creates a delicious, savory, and slightly spicy flavor profile that is the hallmark of a well-made Italian hoagie.

In conclusion, provolone is the ideal cheese for an Italian hoagie due to its distinct flavor, versatility, and ability to complement the other ingredients. It is a key component in creating an authentic and tasty sandwich.

You can also use mozzarella

Mozzarella on an Italian Hoagie

Mozzarella is a soft, white, Italian cheese that originated in Naples. It is a popular cheese choice for pizzas, lasagne, and other baked pasta dishes. But can you use it on an Italian hoagie?

Well, the short answer is yes, you can. However, there are some things to consider when using mozzarella on this type of sandwich. Firstly, it is important to use sliced mozzarella, as this will ensure that the cheese melts properly and creates a nice, even layer on the hoagie. If you try to use shredded or grated mozzarella, it may not melt properly and could make the sandwich messy.

Another thing to keep in mind is that mozzarella has a mild flavour and a higher moisture content than other cheeses typically used on Italian hoagies, such as provolone or sharp cheddar. This means that it may get lost among the other strong flavours in the sandwich, and the extra moisture could make the bread soggy more quickly. To counteract this, you could try using a combination of mozzarella and a stronger, drier cheese, such as provolone, or only adding the mozzarella just before serving to minimise sogginess.

When adding mozzarella to an Italian hoagie, it is best paired with simple, fresh ingredients. Thick, crusty bread, ripe tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar will complement the mild flavour of the cheese. You could also add some basil leaves to enhance the classic Italian flavour combination of basil, tomato, and mozzarella.

While mozzarella may not be the traditional choice for an Italian hoagie, it can be a delicious alternative for those who prefer a milder flavour or are looking for something a little different. Just be sure to eat your sandwich soon after assembling to avoid a soggy mess!

Avoid American, cheddar, or Muenster

When it comes to crafting the perfect Italian hoagie, the choice of cheese is crucial. While a variety of cheeses can complement the other ingredients, there are some types that are best avoided – namely, American, cheddar, or Muenster.

The Italian hoagie, also known as an Italian sub or hero, is a sandwich that originated in Philadelphia and has since spread across the United States, with variations popping up in different regions. However, despite these regional differences, there is a consensus that certain cheeses do not belong on an Italian hoagie.

American cheese, with its mild flavour and smooth texture, is often considered too bland and uninteresting for a hoagie. It lacks the sharpness and tanginess that a good hoagie cheese should have. Similarly, cheddar cheese, while flavourful, has a strong and distinct taste that can overwhelm the other ingredients in the sandwich. Its texture can also be too hard and crumbly, creating a messy eating experience. As for Muenster, its mild flavour and soft texture make it a poor match for the bold, savoury meats and vegetables in a traditional Italian hoagie.

Instead of these cheeses, it is generally recommended to use provolone, which has a sharper, tangier flavour and a firmer texture that holds up well in a sandwich. Provolone is versatile enough to pair well with a variety of meats, including the classic Italian hoagie selections of salami, capicola, prosciutto, and ham. Its tanginess also complements the vinegar-drenched shredded lettuce and other vegetables commonly found in an Italian hoagie. In a pinch, mozzarella can be used as a substitute for provolone, but it is not the preferred choice for this type of sandwich.

Choose a crusty hoagie roll

The hoagie roll is the foundation of your Italian hoagie, so it's worth being fussy about it. A crusty hoagie roll is a must for your sandwich, providing a satisfying textural contrast to the soft fillings. The ideal hoagie roll should be crusty on the outside, with a soft and chewy interior.

Where to Find the Best Hoagie Rolls

If you're lucky enough to have access to a bakery or Italian deli, this is the best place to source your hoagie rolls. The fresher the bread, the better your sandwich will be. If you're buying pre-made hoagie rolls, look for ones that are long, soft, and slightly crusty on the outside.

Making Your Own Hoagie Rolls

If you're feeling ambitious, you can even try making your own hoagie rolls at home. This allows you to control the texture and flavour of your bread, ensuring it's fresh and crusty for your Italian hoagie. Here are some tips for making your own hoagie rolls:

• Use bread flour with a high protein content (at least 11-14%) for the best texture.
• Active dry or instant yeast can be used, but be sure to follow the proofing instructions carefully.
• The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but still easy to handle. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour.
• When shaping the dough, use as little extra flour as possible to avoid making the hoagie rolls tough.
• Let the dough rise until almost doubled in size before baking. Be careful not to overproof the dough, as this will cause your rolls to fall flat.
• For an extra-crusty exterior, brush the rolls with an egg wash before baking.

Storing and Freezing Hoagie Rolls

If you're not using your hoagie rolls right away, there are a few storage options:

• Store uncut rolls in a paper bag or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a plastic bag to prevent air from getting in.
• Freeze the rolls after baking by wrapping them in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Now that you've chosen the perfect crusty hoagie roll, you're ready to assemble your Italian hoagie. Don't forget to add the cheese!

Fillings include ham, salami, pepperoni, capicola, prosciutto, mortadella, and sopressata

Fillings for an Italian Hoagie

The Italian Hoagie is a sandwich made on a long "hoagie" roll. It is typically filled with a variety of meat, cheese, and vegetables. The term is mainly used by Philadelphia natives, but anyone can enjoy a hoagie!

Meats

Cheeses

The type of cheese used on an Italian Hoagie can vary, but provolone is considered a classic choice. Other options include picante provolone, mozzarella, or American cheese.

Other Fillings

In addition to the meat and cheese, an Italian Hoagie is typically filled with fresh vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. Some people also like to add peppers, such as cherry peppers or roasted red peppers, for a spicy kick.

Frequently asked questions