The Perfect Cheese For An Italian Sub

The Italian sub is a sandwich piled high with cured meats, cheese, and vegetables. While there are many variations, the cheese used is typically provolone, although some recipes may use picante provolone, mozzarella, or burrata.

Provolone is the classic choice

Provolone is a firm, aged Italian cheese with a sharp, salty flavour. It's sliced thinly for an Italian sub, and pairs perfectly with the other classic ingredients. These include Italian cured meats like salami, pepperoni, capicola, prosciutto, and ham, as well as shredded iceberg lettuce, fresh tomatoes, and pickled peppers.

You can also add condiments like mayonnaise, olive oil, and red wine vinegar, and dried oregano is a must.

The beauty of an Italian sub is that it's versatile, and you can add your own twist. But if you want to keep it classic, provolone is the way to go.

Burrata is a gourmet alternative

Burrata: A Gourmet Alternative

Burrata is a decadent, gourmet alternative to the cheeses typically found on an Italian sub. This relatively young cheese was developed in the 20th century in Southern Italy and has since become a key ingredient in Italian dishes. Its name comes from the Italian word 'burro', meaning butter, which refers to its buttery texture and richness.

Burrata is a soft, fresh Italian cheese made from cow's or buffalo's milk. It is similar in appearance to fresh mozzarella, with a soft mozzarella outer shell or 'pouch'. However, when cut open, burrata reveals a surprise inside: a rich, creamy mixture of small cheese curds and cream that spills out, perfect for scooping up with a slice of crunchy Italian bread or crackers. This unique texture and taste profile make it a luxurious option for an Italian sub.

To elevate your Italian sub with burrata, start by using a sturdy sub roll or demi Italian loaf to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. Then, instead of the typical cured meats, opt for a generous helping of burrata, paired with ripe tomatoes, basil or fresh herbs, and a light drizzle of olive oil. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavours. Enjoy it fresh, removing it from refrigeration at least half an hour before serving to ensure the best texture and taste.

While burrata may be a less conventional choice, its creamy texture and indulgent flavour profile make it a delightful alternative to the more standard cheeses used on Italian subs. It is a true delicacy that will impress and satisfy anyone who tries it.

American cheese is a controversial option

American Cheese: A Controversial Option

When it comes to the cheese component of an Italian sub, there is one variety that sparks debate among enthusiasts: American cheese. While some assert that it has no place on this classic sandwich, others argue for its inclusion, citing regional variations and the practicality of using locally sourced ingredients.

The Case Against American Cheese

Proponents of traditionalism staunchly oppose the use of American cheese on Italian subs. In their view, it is simply unacceptable to stray from the classic choice of provolone, which is considered the gold standard for this type of sandwich. This stance is particularly prominent in regions like New York and New Jersey, where the Italian sub has a strong cultural foothold. For purists, the idea of American cheese on an Italian sub is akin to sacrilege.

Regional Variations

However, it's important to acknowledge that sandwich preferences can vary across different regions. While provolone may be the dominant choice in certain areas, there are places where American cheese has historically been used in Italian subs. This variation could be attributed to the fact that in the past, Italian immigrants outside of major cultural hubs like New York City might have had limited access to traditional Italian meats and cheeses. As a result, they adapted their sandwiches to incorporate locally available ingredients, including American cheese.

Practical Considerations

Additionally, some people argue that while provolone is the ideal choice, American cheese can be a suitable alternative in certain situations. For instance, if you're crafting an Italian sub at home and don't have access to a specialty deli or Italian market, American cheese might be the most practical option. In this context, American cheese can be seen as a convenient substitute that still allows you to enjoy the overall experience of the sandwich.

The Great Sandwich Debate

The controversy surrounding American cheese on Italian subs reflects the passionate opinions that people hold about food. While some insist on strict adherence to tradition, others embrace flexibility and regional variations. Ultimately, the choice of cheese may depend on personal preference, cultural background, and the specific circumstances surrounding the sandwich's preparation.

Mozzarella is a last resort

If you're making an authentic New York-style Italian sub, you should definitely opt for provolone. This type of cheese is considered non-negotiable by many. In fact, some sources suggest that the only alternative to provolone is sliced mozzarella, and that's only if you're really desperate.

One source even goes so far as to say that you simply cannot use mozzarella on a New York-style Italian sub. So, if you're looking to create an authentic Italian sub experience, it's best to steer clear of mozzarella and go for provolone instead.

Provolone is a firm, aged Italian cheese with a sharp, tangy flavour. It pairs perfectly with the other ingredients in an Italian sub, such as cured meats, lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. Its firm texture also helps to hold the sandwich together, making it a practical as well as tasty choice.

While mozzarella can be a suitable substitute in some situations, it's generally not the best choice for an Italian sub. Its soft, stretchy texture and mild flavour may not stand up to the other bold ingredients in the sandwich. So, unless you have no other options, it's best to leave the mozzarella for your pizza and stick with provolone for your Italian sub.

Layering is key

The Italian sub is a towering testament to the power of layering. Each ingredient is a chapter in a story of passion, tradition, and undying affection for good food. And while the order of layering may vary, the harmony of flavours and textures remains constant.

The Meat Foundation

The foundation of an Italian sub is its meats. Cured Italian meats, sliced paper-thin, form the base of the sandwich. Prosciutto, Genoa salami, hot soppressata, capicola, and pepperoni are popular choices, with mortadella and boiled ham also making frequent appearances. These meats are piled high, creating a savoury foundation that is both airy and substantial.

The Cheese

When it comes to cheese, provolone is the classic choice for an Italian sub. However, some adventurous souls opt for picante provolone, burrata, or even mozzarella in a pinch. The cheese layer adds a salty, creamy contrast to the stack of cured meats.

The Produce

Lettuce, onion, and tomato are essential components of an Italian sub. The lettuce, shredded iceberg to be precise, provides a satisfying crunch and a textural contrast to the other ingredients. The onion, sliced paper-thin and soaked to temper its bite, adds a pungent sharpness. And the tomato, preferably a plum variety with its thicker skin and fewer seeds, lends a sweet and juicy element to the sandwich.

The Finishing Touches

The final layers of an Italian sub include peppers and condiments. Pickled peppers, such as pepperoncinis or cherry peppers, add a tangy heat. Mayonnaise, while not traditional, is often added to prevent the sandwich from drying out. A drizzle of olive oil and a splash of red wine vinegar bring everything together, and a sprinkle of dried oregano adds an herbaceous note.

Assembly

Now it's time to bring all the layers together. The sturdy sub roll, preferably a crusty Italian hero roll, is split open to receive its bounty. The bottom half is spread with mayonnaise, followed by layers of meat, cheese, lettuce, onion, and tomato, taking care to separate the slippery tomato and cheese. The peppers are added, and the sandwich is drizzled with olive oil and vinegar. A sprinkle of oregano, salt, and pepper completes the masterpiece. The top half of the roll is placed on, and the sandwich is ready to be devoured.

Frequently asked questions