Mama Streisand’s Famous Sandwich: A Culinary Ode to Barbra
Barbra Streisand, the iconic singer, actress, and filmmaker, is known for her exceptional talent and captivating performances. But beyond the stage and screen, she also has a passion for food, particularly a sandwich recipe passed down from her mother, Diana. This isn’t just any sandwich; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures, a culinary masterpiece that reflects the warmth and love of a family tradition. This article delves into the details of Mama Streisand’s famous sandwich, providing a step-by-step guide to recreating this delectable treat in your own kitchen. We’ll explore the ingredients, the techniques, and the history behind this iconic sandwich.
## The Legend of Mama Streisand’s Sandwich
The story goes that Diana Streisand, Barbra’s mother, was a fantastic cook. She created this sandwich as a quick and satisfying meal for her family. It became a staple in their household, a comforting and familiar taste that Barbra cherished throughout her life. While the exact original recipe might be shrouded in family secrecy, the spirit of the sandwich – fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a generous helping of love – is what truly defines it. This recipe is an interpretation, inspired by various accounts and culinary explorations, designed to capture the essence of Mama Streisand’s creation.
## Unveiling the Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
The key to Mama Streisand’s sandwich lies in the quality and combination of its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the overall flavor profile. Here’s a breakdown of the essential elements:
* **Bread:** The foundation of any great sandwich is the bread. For Mama Streisand’s sandwich, a sturdy, slightly crusty bread is recommended. Think rye, pumpernickel, or even a good sourdough. The bread should be able to hold up to the fillings without becoming soggy. A Jewish rye bread would be a particularly authentic choice, nodding to Streisand’s heritage. Consider a light or dark rye depending on your preference, the key is that it is flavorful and sturdy.
* **Turkey Breast:** Lean, thinly sliced turkey breast is the star of the show. Opt for high-quality turkey breast from a reputable deli or butcher shop. Freshly sliced turkey is always preferred, as it retains its moisture and flavor better than pre-packaged options. The amount of turkey should be generous, but not overwhelming.
* **Coleslaw:** This isn’t your average mayonnaise-laden coleslaw. Mama Streisand’s coleslaw is a vibrant and tangy mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light, vinegar-based dressing. The coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and a counterpoint to the richness of the turkey and other ingredients. The key here is using fresh ingredients and making the coleslaw yourself.
* **Russian Dressing:** This creamy, slightly spicy dressing is what ties everything together. While store-bought Russian dressing can be used, homemade is always better. The dressing is made with mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of paprika. The tang and spice of the Russian dressing perfectly complements the other flavors in the sandwich.
* **Swiss Cheese:** Thin slices of Swiss cheese add a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and a creamy texture. The Swiss cheese melts beautifully, creating a cohesive and satisfying bite. A good quality Swiss cheese is essential for the best flavor and texture.
* **Pickled Herring (Optional):** This is a more traditional touch that reflects the Eastern European influence on Jewish cuisine. Pickled herring adds a salty, briny flavor that some may find adds a unique depth to the sandwich. If you’re adventurous, give it a try! If you decide to use it, ensure it’s a good quality pickled herring, drained well to avoid making the sandwich soggy.
* **Tomato (Optional):** A slice of fresh, ripe tomato can add a juicy sweetness to the sandwich. However, be mindful of adding too much moisture, which can make the bread soggy. If you choose to use tomato, pat the slice dry with a paper towel before adding it to the sandwich. Also, consider using a thicker slice of tomato so it does not break apart when biting into the sandwich.
## Crafting the Masterpiece: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s assemble Mama Streisand’s famous sandwich. Follow these steps carefully to recreate this culinary delight:
1. **Prepare the Coleslaw:** If you’re making your own coleslaw, start by shredding the cabbage and carrots. In a separate bowl, whisk together the vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and a touch of olive oil. Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables and toss to combine. Let the coleslaw sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can even prepare this ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
2. **Make the Russian Dressing:** If you’re opting for homemade Russian dressing, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika in a bowl. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasonings to your liking. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. As with the coleslaw, you can prepare this in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
3. **Assemble the Sandwich:**
* Lay out two slices of bread.
* Spread a generous amount of Russian dressing on both slices of bread. Make sure to spread it evenly to cover the entire surface.
* On one slice of bread, layer the Swiss cheese. The cheese should cover the entire surface of the bread to create a good foundation for the other ingredients.
* Next, add a generous portion of the thinly sliced turkey breast on top of the Swiss cheese. Make sure to distribute the turkey evenly across the bread.
* Spoon a generous amount of coleslaw over the turkey breast. The coleslaw should be piled high, adding a significant amount of texture and flavor to the sandwich.
* (Optional) Add a slice of tomato on top of the coleslaw. Remember to pat the tomato slice dry with a paper towel before adding it to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
* (Optional) If using pickled herring, add a few pieces on top of the coleslaw or tomato.
* Top with the other slice of bread, Russian dressing side down.
4. **Cut and Serve:**
* Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the sandwich in half diagonally. This not only makes the sandwich easier to eat but also creates a visually appealing presentation.
* Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors and textures that is Mama Streisand’s famous sandwich!
## Tips and Variations: Making it Your Own
While the recipe above captures the essence of Mama Streisand’s sandwich, feel free to experiment and make it your own. Here are a few tips and variations to consider:
* **Bread Variations:** If rye or pumpernickel isn’t your thing, try using sourdough, challah, or even a pretzel roll. The key is to choose a bread that is sturdy enough to hold the fillings and complements the other flavors.
* **Meat Options:** While turkey breast is the traditional choice, you can also use roast beef, pastrami, or corned beef. Each meat will add a different flavor profile, so experiment to find your favorite combination.
* **Cheese Alternatives:** If you’re not a fan of Swiss cheese, try using provolone, muenster, or even a sharp cheddar. Each cheese will add a different level of sharpness and creaminess to the sandwich.
* **Vegetarian Option:** To make a vegetarian version of the sandwich, replace the turkey with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu. You can also add other vegetables, such as roasted red peppers or grilled zucchini.
* **Spicy Kick:** For a spicier sandwich, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Russian dressing or use a spicy mustard instead of mayonnaise.
* **Sweet Touch:** If you prefer a sweeter sandwich, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the Russian dressing.
* **Grilling or Pressing:** For a warm and melty sandwich, grill it in a panini press or on a skillet until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
## The Importance of Quality Ingredients
No matter what variations you choose, the key to a truly exceptional Mama Streisand’s sandwich is to use high-quality ingredients. Freshly baked bread, thinly sliced turkey breast, homemade coleslaw, and flavorful Russian dressing will all contribute to the overall taste and experience. Don’t skimp on the ingredients – it’s worth the investment.
## Serving Suggestions: Completing the Meal
Mama Streisand’s sandwich is a satisfying meal on its own, but you can also pair it with other dishes to create a complete and balanced meal. Here are a few serving suggestions:
* **Pickles:** A side of dill pickles or half-sour pickles is a classic accompaniment to a deli sandwich. The sourness of the pickles helps to cut through the richness of the sandwich.
* **Potato Salad or Macaroni Salad:** These classic side dishes are always a hit. Choose your favorite recipe or buy them from a reputable deli.
* **Soup:** A bowl of matzo ball soup, chicken noodle soup, or split pea soup is a comforting and satisfying addition to the meal.
* **Chips:** A bag of potato chips or kettle chips is a simple and easy side dish that adds a satisfying crunch.
* **Fruit Salad:** A refreshing fruit salad is a light and healthy way to end the meal.
* **Dessert:** A slice of cheesecake, a rugelach, or a black and white cookie is the perfect sweet treat to complete the meal.
## A Sandwich Worthy of a Star
Mama Streisand’s famous sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary tribute to a family tradition and a reflection of Barbra Streisand’s love for good food. With its combination of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and satisfying textures, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to experience a sandwich worthy of a star. Enjoy!
This sandwich is truly a delicious tribute to the culinary inspiration of Barbra Streisand’s mother. It’s a simple, yet elegant combination that anyone can recreate at home. The vibrant coleslaw combined with the savory turkey and creamy Russian dressing creates a symphony of flavors. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, Mama Streisand’s sandwich is sure to become a family favorite. This recipe embodies comfort food at its finest – a taste of home, love, and a dash of Barbra Streisand magic.
This recipe makes one sandwich, but can easily be multiplied to feed a crowd. Consider making the coleslaw and Russian dressing ahead of time to streamline the assembly process. When making multiple sandwiches, lay out all the ingredients in an assembly line for maximum efficiency. Get creative with the presentation, perhaps using parchment paper to wrap each sandwich for a more rustic look. Most importantly, share this sandwich with loved ones and enjoy the experience of creating and savoring this culinary gem. Whether you’re a die-hard Streisand fan or simply a lover of good food, Mama Streisand’s sandwich is a must-try. The simple yet elegant flavors make this sandwich a winner.
Enjoy this trip into the world of Barbra Streisand’s culinary heritage, and happy sandwich-making!
Remember to always use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations to find your perfect combination. And most importantly, enjoy the process of creating and savoring this delicious and iconic sandwich.