Exploring My Favorite Deli Sandwiches: A Journey Through Authenticity and Flavor
When it comes to deli sandwiches, I have a variety of favorites that each hold a special place in my heart. From the classic gyro to the custom sub creations, here's a journey through my favorite deli sandwiches, complete with their unique flavors and preferred accoutrements.
The Greek Tradition: Gyros
One of my favorite deli sandwiches is undoubtedly the gyro. This dish, often found in Greek cuisine, is a delightful combination of seasoned meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served with lettuce, tomato, and tzatziki sauce. The gyros are not only a vibrant representation of Mediterranean culture but also a delicious meal in and of themselves.
If gyros are not available, I tend to opt for a mixed sub that includes everything on it. These towering subs, loaded with various meats, cheeses, and toppings, are a feast for my taste buds. To complete the meal, a bag of chips and a cold can of a refreshing beverage are always a great addition.
Jimmy Johns: A Familiar Favorite
While Jimmy Johns may not be considered a traditional deli, their 18-inch tuna sub has won a special place in my heart. This large, well-stocked sandwich is a testament to their commitment to creating delicious subs. I'm always eagerly waiting to get my hands on the tuna sub, and it never disappoints.
Authentic Italian Flavors: The Hoagie
No discussion of deli sandwiches would be complete without mentioning the classic Italian hoagie. Originating in Eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, this sandwich is a beloved American staple.
Unlike many subs, the hoagie is typically made with a thin cut of meat and little to no mayonnaise or mustard. Instead, it's drizzled with olive oil and vinegar, seasoned with a touch of salt, pepper, and oregano. Another unique feature of the hoagie is the bread, which is often hollowed out a bit to accommodate the rich fillings. This hollowed-out style of bread is often used in meatball subs, where the bread crumbs are added to the meatballs for an extra layer of flavor.
Pastrami on Real Jewish Rye
For a more substantial and slightly fattier option, the dense, caraway-seeded pastrami on real Jewish rye bread with a spicy brown mustard is a must-have. There's something about the texture and spiciness of the pastrami that makes it an ideal choice. I typically crave 6 ounces of thinly sliced pastrami on rye that has a rich crust and is loaded with caraway seeds. To complement this, I favor Gulden’s spicy brown mustard, which adds that perfect kick.
Custom Subs: A Personal Touch
When it comes to custom subs, my favorite combination is roast beef or a BLT, but if I have the option to create my own sandwich, I opt for an Italian cheese bread. I like to load it with hard salami, Genoa salami, pepperoni, and a bit of ham, all topped with banana peppers and provolone cheese. The bread is toasted using a combination of oregano, oil, and vinegar, which enhances the flavor of the sandwich immensely.
Exploring and enjoying these different deli sandwiches is not just about the food itself but also about the experience of savoring each bite. From the rich, fatty Pastrami on real Jewish rye to the classic Italian hoagie, each sandwich is a unique culinary journey. Whether I'm grabbing a gyro, a Jimmy Johns sub, a hoagie from the local deli, or crafting my own custom sub, I always find the perfect combination of flavors that satisfy my taste buds.
Which of these deli sandwiches is your favorite? Share your own stories and preferences in the comments below!