The Best Cheeses For An Italian Sub Sandwich

The Italian sub is a sandwich piled high with cured meats, cheese, and vegetables. While there are many variations, the most common type of cheese used in an Italian sub is provolone.

Provolone is the standard cheese

Provolone is a type of Italian cheese made from cow's milk. It has a mild, slightly nutty flavour and a semi-soft texture. When used in an Italian sub, it is typically sliced thin, ensuring that the sandwich remains airy and not too dense. The cheese is a key component of this popular sandwich, adding protein and flavour to the dish.

While provolone is the standard cheese for an Italian sub, some variations do exist. For instance, Swiss cheese is sometimes used as a substitute for provolone, offering a slightly different flavour profile. However, provolone is the traditional choice and is preferred by purists.

The other ingredients in an Italian sub are typically various Italian cured meats, such as salami, pepperoni, prosciutto, or capicola. These meats provide a savoury, umami flavour that pairs well with the provolone. The sandwich is also often served with vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and pickled peppers, adding a refreshing crunch to the dish.

The bread used for an Italian sub is typically a sturdy sub roll or a demi Italian loaf. These types of bread are bulky and help prevent the fillings from seeping through, ensuring that the sandwich stays crisp and fresh. The sandwich can be customised with condiments such as mayonnaise, olive oil, and red wine vinegar, as well as spices like dried oregano.

Salami is a popular choice

When building an Italian sub, it's important to consider the architecture of the sandwich. Start with a sturdy sub roll or a demi Italian loaf, which will prevent the fillings from seeping through and creating a soggy sandwich. Then, layer on the cured meats, followed by the cheese. Salami is a versatile choice that can be paired with a variety of cheeses, but provolone is the standard choice for an Italian sub. This cheese has a mild, nutty flavour that pairs well with the salty, savoury notes of the cured meats.

In addition to the meat and cheese, an Italian sub typically includes vegetables such as shredded iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickled vegetables like banana peppers or giardiniera. These vegetables add a crunchy texture and a tangy flavour that balances out the richness of the meats and cheese.

To finish the sandwich, a drizzle of olive oil and red wine vinegar, along with a pinch of dried oregano, ties all the flavours together. This classic combination of ingredients, with salami as a key component, makes the Italian sub a popular choice for a hearty and flavourful sandwich.

Cured meats are essential

Cured meats are the foundation of an Italian sub, and with good reason. Firstly, they offer a range of flavours and textures that are simply irresistible. From the salty , ribbon-like slices of prosciutto to the more substantial, spicy kick of Genoa salami, these meats provide a satisfying bite that is enhanced by the curing process.

Secondly, cured meats are preserved, making them safe to consume without refrigeration. This characteristic is ideal for Italian subs, as it ensures the sandwich stays fresh and safe to eat for longer periods. It's no wonder that cured meats are a staple in Italian subs, given their ability to elevate both the taste and practicality of the sandwich.

When constructing an Italian sub, the order of layering the meats is important. Start with the cured meats, such as prosciutto, followed by other varieties like Genoa salami or hot soppressata. This ensures a well-structured sandwich, as the cured meats act as a flavourful base for the rest of the ingredients.

While there are no hard and fast rules, most Italian subs feature three or four types of meat. In addition to prosciutto and salami, mortadella, capicola, and spicy coppa are popular choices. This combination of meats provides a delightful symphony of flavours and textures, ensuring each bite is as tantalising as the last.

The key to a great Italian sub is in the details. Ask your local deli to slice the meats thinly, as this improves both the texture and overall eating experience. A dense sandwich is less appealing, so strive for airy, delicate slices that will melt in your mouth.

Lastly, cured meats are versatile. Whether you prefer a simple sandwich with just a few ingredients or a more indulgent creation with additional toppings, cured meats are the star of the show. They provide a savoury foundation that complements the other components, resulting in a well-rounded and utterly delicious Italian sub.

It's best on a sturdy roll

When it comes to the perfect Italian sub, it's best on a sturdy roll. This is a sandwich with a lot of ingredients, so a sturdy roll is essential to hold everything together. A sub roll or demi Italian loaf is ideal, as they are bulky enough to prevent the fillings from seeping through and creating a soggy mess. The outer crust should be a little crackly, while the inside is cottony and soft.

The key to a good Italian sub is to ensure the bread doesn't get soggy, and a sturdy roll is the first step. You can also scoop out some of the bread from the top half of the roll to make more room for the fillings and prevent them from falling out. This is a great way to make sure your sandwich is hearty and substantial without being too dense.

A good Italian sub should be piled high with cured meats, and a sturdy roll can handle the weight. Whether you choose prosciutto, salami, pepperoni, or capicola, a sturdy roll will keep everything in place. The same goes for the cheese; whether you opt for provolone, Swiss, or picante, a sturdy roll will ensure it stays put.

Finally, a sturdy roll will also stand up to the various toppings and condiments that complete the Italian sub. From shredded lettuce and tomatoes to olive oil, vinegar, and oregano, a sturdy roll will absorb these flavours without falling apart. So, when crafting the perfect Italian sub, don't skimp on the bread—choose a sturdy roll to ensure your sandwich is delicious and mess-free.

Tomatoes are a must

When preparing your Italian sub, be sure to slice the tomato crosswise. This will give your sandwich a nice, even layer of tomato. And don't be shy with the portion size—a generous helping of tomato will enhance the flavour and texture of your sub.

If you're looking for an extra touch of sophistication, consider adding some dried oregano to your tomato. This simple addition will elevate your sandwich and give it a distinct Italian flair.

Of course, the tomato is just one component of a classic Italian sub. This hearty sandwich also typically includes a variety of cured meats, such as salami, prosciutto, and capicola, as well as provolone cheese, lettuce, onion, and a drizzle of olive oil and red wine vinegar. But while these ingredients are all important, it's the tomato that really brings the sandwich together and gives it that signature Italian taste. So, if you're craving an Italian sub, don't forget to include a juicy, ripe tomato—your taste buds will thank you!

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