A fresh take on the classic Italian sub takes social media by storm
In the ever-evolving world of viral food trends, the latest sensation to capture the hearts and taste buds of millions is none other than the Chopped Italian Sandwich. With over 11 million views on TikTok, this innovative twist on the classic Italian sub has sparked curiosity and culinary adventure among food enthusiasts. Sam Schwab, diving into the trend, decided to not only try making this unique dish but also integrate it into their lunch and dinner menus for an entire week. Here’s a detailed look at how to prepare this viral sensation and whether it truly stands up to its growing acclaim.
The Recipe:
The chopped Italian sandwich, initially popularized by Eric from Big Eric’s BBQ and later adapted by Jordan Hanger from Ninjacue, essentially deconstructs the traditional Italian sub-ingredients, finely chops them and then combines them in a way that each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavours. The process involves chopping lettuce, deli meats, cheese, tomatoes, banana peppers, and red onions together, then mixing in wet ingredients like mayonnaise, olive oil, red wine vinegar, along with seasonings such as Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. The final step is scooping the mixture into hoagie rolls for a compact, flavour-packed sandwich.
The Review:
Schwab’s experiment with the viral chopped Italian sandwich was met with delight and a few practical observations. The most notable advantage of this sandwich style is the uniform distribution of flavours across each bite, akin to the experience of enjoying a finely balanced chopped salad. Additionally, the chopped format addresses the common frustration of sandwich fillings slipping out with each bite, offering a more cohesive eating experience.
However, the preparation of this deconstructed sandwich does introduce additional steps and, consequently, more cleanup. Schwab pondered whether the unique taste and convenience of eating justified the extra effort. Despite these considerations, the verdict leaned positively towards the innovative sandwich, with an openness to ordering it when dining out, thanks to its distinctive taste and texture.
Tips for Success:
For those eager to try their hand at this viral recipe, Schwab suggests a few tips for an optimal experience. Experimenting with different types of bread and cheeses can tailor the sandwich to personal preferences, enhancing the overall enjoyment. Moreover, if planning to prepare the sandwich ahead of time, it’s advisable to delay adding the wet ingredients until just before serving to avoid a soggy outcome.
The viral chopped Italian sandwich not only lives up to the hype but also invites culinary enthusiasts to reimagine the possibilities of sandwich-making. While it may not completely replace the traditional sub for everyone, it certainly adds a delightful and innovative option for those looking to spice up their meal routines. Whether you’re a staunch traditionalist or a culinary adventurer, this viral sensation is worth exploring for a fresh and flavorful experience.
