Build a Perfect Sandwich

To build a perfect sandwich there is an eight step formula, so let’s begin.

Step One: the foundation of any sandwich starts with the BREAD. Try pairing a soft bread with soft toppings and a crustier bread with crunchy tough fillings.

Step Two: is the MOISTURE SHIELD OR BARRIER. This is generally some kind of fat like mayonnaise, butter or pesto. Be sure to spread it completely to the edges of both slices of bread to help prevent sogginess.

Step Three: the star of the show… PROTEIN. A thinly sliced or shaved meat will allow for better texture and less slippage. The suggested ratio is 1:4 meaning; 4 parts protein to 1 part cheese.

Step Four: CHEESE! I love cheese! It adds a creaminess to your sandwich as well as helps to bind ingredients together.

Step Five: is all about TEXTURE AND CRUNCH. Try raw onions, pickles, lettuce or even crispy bacon. Think of anything that has a crunch… cereal, potato chips or raw bell peppers. The list can go on and on, just don’t skip this as it provides the vital contrast in your sandwich.

Step Six: TANGY ZIPPY FLAVOR. Mustard, vinaigrette, balsamic vinegar, pickles, BBQ sauce, even ketchup it’s all designed to wake up your palate.

Step Seven: a FRESH CREAMY ELEMENT like avocado, roasted peppers or tomatoes for freshness.

Step Eight: SEASONINGS. Salt and pepper go a long way to make a sandwich delightful. But consider herbs or other spices like Italian seasoning, curry powder, garlic powder or even onion powder. Think about the herbs you put on tomatoes or other veggies and add them to your sandwiches.

Optimal Layering Structure
On the BOTTOM is your bread with a FAT BARRIER followed by the DENSE HEAVY INGREDIENTS like cheese and meat.

The MIDDLE layer is your MAIN PROTEIN. Be sure to layer the protein so it extends all the way to the edges of your bread and slightly beyond.

Finally the TOP layer is where your WET INGREDIENTS live. These are things like tomatoes and cucumbers. Next you add your GRIPPY INGREDIENTS like lettuce and finally you have your FAT BARRIER on your TOP BREAD.

Additional Tips
- Using thin slices of vegetables and/or shaved meat helps prevent the filling from sliding out of your sandwich.

- Season as you go meaning season your tomatoes and greens directly instead of on the top of the sandwich.

- Compress your sandwich by wrapping the final sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for a few minutes to set the structure you have just built.

Enjoy your perfect sandwich!

💗 Jo