The Cheesy Truth: Italian Sub's Secret Ingredient

The Italian sub is a sandwich with a variety of cured meats and cheeses. The type of cheese used in an Italian sub can vary, but provolone is a popular choice. Other cheeses that may be used include American cheese, mozzarella, and picante provolone. The sandwich typically includes a variety of Italian cured meats such as salami, pepperoni, capicola, mortadella, and prosciutto.

Provolone is a popular choice of cheese

Provolone is a versatile cheese that can be purchased in different forms, such as deli-sliced or shredded, to suit the preferences of the sandwich maker. Its mild flavour and meltability make it a popular choice for Italian subs, as it does not overpower the other ingredients. It also has a higher melting point than some other cheeses, which helps it retain its shape and texture within the sandwich.

When making an Italian sub with provolone, it is essential to consider the quality and thickness of the cheese slices. Thinly sliced provolone is preferred, as thicker slices may dominate the other flavours in the sandwich. The cheese should be evenly distributed and layered with the meats to create a balanced ratio of ingredients.

The combination of provolone with cured meats, crisp vegetables, and tangy condiments makes for a delicious and satisfying Italian sub. The cheese's versatility, mild flavour, and meltability contribute to its popularity in this classic sandwich. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a hearty snack, an Italian sub with provolone cheese is sure to please.

Creating the perfect Italian sub with provolone cheese involves a careful selection of complementary ingredients. The cheese's mild flavour and meltability make it a versatile component that can be paired with various meats and toppings. By customising the sandwich to one's taste, the result is a flavourful and satisfying dining experience.

Cured meats are a common feature

The variety of meats in an Italian sub is important for creating a balanced flavour profile. While some combinations of cold cuts can taste great together, not all do, so it's important to be intentional with your choices. For example, while pepperoni is a common option, it has no place on an actual good Italian sub, according to one source. Instead, they suggest using hot soppressata, which is similar but has more depth of flavour. Similarly, Genoa salami is said to have depth, a little more acidity, and some funk.

Mortadella is another popular choice, often used as the "base" meat due to its mild flavour. However, lunchmeat ham can also be used as long as it's not flavoured with smoke, honey, or other additives. Prosciutto, on the other hand, should only be used if it's top-shelf and has been sliced very thinly and recently, as it can have a tendency to pull.

The quantity of meat is also important. While some might assume that using more types of meat will result in a better-tasting combination, this isn't always the case. It's usually better to pick one or two types of salami that you like and let them shine, rather than mixing several different kinds.

In terms of preparation, it's best to let the cured meats come to room temperature before assembling the sandwich, as this allows the fat to become the lubrication and enhances the flavour. Additionally, cured meats can be chewy if they're sliced too thick, so it's important to ask for very thin slices when ordering from a deli.

Red wine vinegar is a classic condiment

Red wine vinegar is prized for its ability to enhance the flavours of dishes. Its tangy taste and acidic nature complement the sweetness of fruits or the creaminess of dressings. The acidity of red wine vinegar also makes it an excellent dressing or marinade, pairing well with bold flavours like garlic, mustard and herbs. It is a key ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, adding a bright contrast to creamy or fatty dishes.

The use of red wine vinegar in cooking offers several benefits. Firstly, it can be used to balance and enhance the flavours of other ingredients, adding a bright and tangy twist to salads, marinades and sauces. Secondly, its acidity helps to tenderise meat, making it ideal for use in marinades. Additionally, red wine vinegar has a long shelf life and can be stored for up to 2-3 years if unopened and kept in a cool, dark place. This makes it a convenient staple to keep in the kitchen.

Red wine vinegar also has potential health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, which can help support digestion and heart health, as well as regulate blood sugar levels. Its sharp flavour can add depth to recipes while also providing these nutritional benefits. However, it is important to use red wine vinegar in moderation, as too much can overpower other flavours in a dish.

In conclusion, red wine vinegar is a classic condiment that is versatile, flavourful and enhances various dishes. Its tangy and acidic taste, along with its potential health benefits, make it a valuable ingredient in kitchens around the world.

Olive oil is often drizzled on the bread

One popular option is to combine olive oil with red wine vinegar, creating a tangy and acidic dressing that complements the other ingredients in the sub. This dressing can be whisked together with additional ingredients like parsley, garlic, basil, red pepper flakes, and oregano. This mixture is then poured over the other components of the sandwich, such as lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, and allowed to marinate before being added to the sub.

Another approach is to drizzle olive oil directly onto the bread and then sprinkle it with Italian seasonings, such as oregano, garlic salt, or a blend of herbs and spices. This method imparts a more intense flavour to the bread itself, creating a robust foundation for the rest of the ingredients. The oil may also be mixed with vinegar and spread on the bread, providing a tangy contrast to the other toppings.

In some cases, olive oil is incorporated into a spread or sauce that is then generously applied to the bread. Mayonnaise, for instance, can be mixed with olive oil and spices to create a creamy and flavourful base for the sub. This combination adds moisture and richness to the sandwich, enhancing the overall taste experience. The oil may also be mixed with other ingredients like chilli paste or mustard, creating a more complex and spicy flavour profile.

The use of olive oil in an Italian sub not only enhances the flavour of the bread but also contributes to the overall texture and mouthfeel of the sandwich. It adds a subtle richness and moisture that brings all the ingredients together, ensuring that each bite is satisfying and flavourful. Whether used as a drizzle, dressing, or component of a spread, olive oil plays a crucial role in the construction of this classic sandwich.

It's usually served on a crusty Italian roll

An Italian sub is a sandwich that's usually served on a crusty Italian roll. This roll is sometimes called a 'hero', a 'hoagie', or a 'grinder'. The bread is often dressed with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano.

The crusty Italian roll is filled with a variety of cured meats and cheese. The meats typically include capicola (a spicy Italian ham), mortadella (a bologna-like cured meat studded with pistachios), salami, pepperoni, and prosciutto. The cheese is usually provolone, but some variations include mild provolone, pecorino, or Parmesan.

The sandwich is then filled with vegetables, such as shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, red onion, banana peppers, and black olives. Some recipes include a drizzle of Italian dressing or mayonnaise.

The Italian sub is a flexible sandwich, and variations include different combinations of meats, cheeses, and vegetables. It's a hearty sandwich that's perfect for a quick lunch or an easy snack.

Frequently asked questions