From Submarine Sandwiches to Billion-Dollar Bite: Recreating Subway Classics at Home
Subway’s recent acquisition for a staggering sum has undoubtedly made headlines, sparking conversations about the brand’s legacy and the future of fast-food sandwiches. While the news is buzzing, what better way to celebrate (or commiserate, depending on your feelings) than by recreating some of your favorite Subway classics right in your own kitchen? Forget delivery fees and long lines; with a few simple ingredients and some culinary creativity, you can craft personalized submarine sandwiches that rival the original, perhaps even surpassing them in quality and flavor. This guide will take you through recreating several popular Subway options, providing detailed instructions, ingredient suggestions, and tips for achieving that signature Subway taste.
The Anatomy of a Perfect Subway-Style Sandwich
Before diving into specific recipes, let’s break down the essential components of a great Subway-style sandwich. Understanding these elements will allow you to customize and experiment with your own creations.
* **The Bread:** The foundation of any good sandwich is, of course, the bread. Subway offers a variety of bread choices, each with its own unique texture and flavor. For the most authentic experience, consider the following options:
* **Italian:** This is the classic Subway bread, characterized by its soft, slightly chewy texture and subtle flavor. You can find similar loaves at most grocery stores or bakeries. Look for a loaf that’s long and slender, ideal for holding plenty of fillings.
* **Wheat:** A healthier option, wheat bread offers a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture. Opt for whole wheat for added fiber and nutrients.
* **Honey Oat:** This sweet and slightly chewy bread adds a touch of sweetness and a pleasant oat-like aroma to your sandwich. It can be harder to find, but some bakeries may offer a similar variation.
* **Italian Herbs and Cheese:** A flavorful alternative, this bread is infused with Italian herbs and topped with a generous sprinkling of cheese. It adds a savory and aromatic element to your sandwich.
**Tips for the Perfect Bread:**
* **Freshness is Key:** Use the freshest bread possible for the best texture and flavor.
* **Toasting:** Lightly toasting the bread can enhance its flavor and add a pleasant crispness. Be careful not to over-toast, as this can make the bread dry and hard.
* **Slicing:** Slice the bread lengthwise, creating a trough for the fillings. Avoid slicing it completely in half, as this can make the sandwich unstable.
* **The Protein:** The protein is the heart of the sandwich, providing substance and flavor. Subway offers a wide array of protein choices, from classic cold cuts to grilled meats. Here are some popular options and how to recreate them at home:
* **Turkey Breast:** Thinly sliced turkey breast is a lean and flavorful option. Look for high-quality turkey breast with minimal additives. You can even roast your own turkey breast for a truly homemade experience.
* **Ham:** Another classic cold cut, ham offers a salty and savory flavor. Choose a good quality ham, such as Black Forest ham or Virginia ham, for the best taste.
* **Roast Beef:** Thinly sliced roast beef provides a rich and satisfying flavor. Opt for a lean cut of roast beef to avoid excess fat.
* **Chicken Breast:** Grilled chicken breast is a healthier and more flavorful alternative to cold cuts. You can grill your own chicken breast or purchase pre-cooked grilled chicken strips.
* **Tuna Salad:** Subway’s tuna salad is a popular choice, made with tuna, mayonnaise, celery, and onion. You can easily recreate it at home using canned tuna, mayonnaise, finely chopped celery and onion, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
* **Meatball Marinara:** Although more involved, homemade meatballs in marinara sauce can create a truly exceptional Subway-style sandwich. Recipe provided below.
* **The Cheese:** Cheese adds flavor, creaminess, and texture to your sandwich. Subway offers several cheese options, including:
* **American Cheese:** A classic choice, American cheese is mild and melts well.
* **Cheddar Cheese:** Cheddar cheese offers a sharper and more pronounced flavor.
* **Provolone Cheese:** Provolone cheese provides a slightly tangy and nutty flavor.
* **Monterey Jack Cheese:** Monterey Jack cheese is a mild and creamy cheese that melts well.
**Tips for Choosing Cheese:**
* **Pre-Sliced:** Pre-sliced cheese is convenient, but freshly sliced cheese often has a better flavor.
* **Variety:** Experiment with different cheese varieties to find your favorite combination.
* **The Vegetables:** Fresh vegetables add flavor, texture, and nutrients to your sandwich. Subway offers a wide variety of vegetable options, including:
* **Lettuce:** Crisp and refreshing, lettuce adds a cool crunch to your sandwich. Romaine lettuce or iceberg lettuce are good choices.
* **Tomatoes:** Sliced tomatoes add juiciness and sweetness. Choose ripe and flavorful tomatoes.
* **Onions:** Sliced onions add a pungent and savory flavor. Red onions or white onions can be used.
* **Green Peppers:** Sliced green peppers add a slightly sweet and crunchy flavor.
* **Cucumbers:** Sliced cucumbers add a cool and refreshing crunch.
* **Pickles:** Dill pickles or sweet pickles add a tangy and salty flavor.
* **Olives:** Black olives or green olives add a salty and briny flavor.
* **Jalapeños:** Sliced jalapeños add a spicy kick.
**Tips for Preparing Vegetables:**
* **Freshness:** Use the freshest vegetables possible for the best flavor and texture.
* **Washing:** Wash all vegetables thoroughly before using.
* **Slicing:** Slice vegetables thinly for even distribution throughout the sandwich.
* **The Sauce:** The sauce is the finishing touch, adding flavor and moisture to your sandwich. Subway offers a variety of sauces, including:
* **Mayonnaise:** A classic condiment, mayonnaise adds creaminess and richness.
* **Mustard:** Yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, or honey mustard add a tangy and flavorful kick.
* **Ranch Dressing:** Ranch dressing adds a creamy and herby flavor.
* **Oil and Vinegar:** A simple and healthy option, oil and vinegar add a tangy and refreshing flavor.
* **Sweet Onion Sauce:** A signature Subway sauce, sweet onion sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor. Recipe provided below.
* **Chipotle Southwest Sauce:** Adds a smoky and spicy flavor.
## Recreating Subway Classics: Step-by-Step Recipes
Now that you understand the basic components of a Subway-style sandwich, let’s dive into some specific recipes:
**1. The Classic Italian B.M.T.**
This is arguably Subway’s most iconic sandwich. B.M.T. stands for Biggest, Meatiest, Tastiest.
* **Ingredients:**
* 1 Italian bread loaf
* 4-6 slices of Genoa salami
* 4-6 slices of pepperoni
* 4-6 slices of ham
* 2 slices of provolone cheese
* Lettuce, shredded
* Tomato slices
* Onion slices
* Green pepper slices
* Oil and vinegar
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **Instructions:**
1. Slice the Italian bread lengthwise, creating a trough.
2. Layer the salami, pepperoni, and ham in the bread.
3. Top with provolone cheese.
4. Add lettuce, tomato, onion, and green pepper.
5. Drizzle with oil and vinegar.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Enjoy!
**2. The Spicy Italian**
For those who like a little heat.
* **Ingredients:**
* 1 Italian bread loaf
* 6-8 slices of pepperoni
* 4-6 slices of salami (preferably spicy salami)
* 2 slices of provolone or pepper jack cheese
* Lettuce, shredded
* Tomato slices
* Onion slices
* Banana peppers (optional)
* Chipotle Southwest Sauce or a drizzle of olive oil and red pepper flakes
* **Instructions:**
1. Slice the Italian bread lengthwise, creating a trough.
2. Layer the pepperoni and salami in the bread.
3. Top with provolone or pepper jack cheese.
4. Add lettuce, tomato, and onion.
5. Add banana peppers if desired.
6. Drizzle with Chipotle Southwest Sauce or olive oil and red pepper flakes.
7. Enjoy!
**3. The Turkey Breast Sub**
A healthy and delicious option.
* **Ingredients:**
* 1 Wheat or Honey Oat bread loaf
* 4-6 slices of turkey breast
* 2 slices of cheddar cheese
* Lettuce, shredded
* Tomato slices
* Onion slices
* Cucumber slices
* Mustard or mayonnaise
* **Instructions:**
1. Slice the Wheat or Honey Oat bread lengthwise, creating a trough.
2. Layer the turkey breast in the bread.
3. Top with cheddar cheese.
4. Add lettuce, tomato, onion, and cucumber.
5. Spread with mustard or mayonnaise.
6. Enjoy!
**4. The Tuna Sub**
A classic and convenient choice.
* **Ingredients:**
* 1 Italian or Wheat bread loaf
* 1 can (5 ounces) of tuna in water, drained
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 1 tablespoon finely chopped celery
* 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Lettuce, shredded
* Tomato slices
* Cucumber slices
* **Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, celery, and onion. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Slice the Italian or Wheat bread lengthwise, creating a trough.
3. Spread the tuna salad in the bread.
4. Top with lettuce, tomato, and cucumber.
5. Enjoy!
**5. Meatball Marinara Sub (Homemade!)**
This requires a bit more effort, but the results are worth it.
* **Ingredients (Meatballs):**
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **Ingredients (Sauce):**
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* 1/2 teaspoon sugar
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **Ingredients (Sub):**
* 1 Italian bread loaf
* Mozzarella cheese, shredded
* **Instructions:**
1. **Make the Meatballs:** In a bowl, combine all meatball ingredients. Mix well. Roll into small meatballs.
2. **Cook the Meatballs:** You can bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or pan-fry them in a little olive oil until browned on all sides.
3. **Make the Sauce:** In a saucepan, combine all sauce ingredients. Bring to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. **Combine Meatballs and Sauce:** Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for another 15 minutes.
5. **Assemble the Sub:** Slice the Italian bread lengthwise, creating a trough. Fill with the meatball mixture and top with mozzarella cheese.
6. **Bake (Optional):** Place the sub under a broiler for a minute or two to melt the cheese.
7. Enjoy!
## Secret Sauces: Recreating Subway’s Signature Flavors
No Subway recreation is complete without attempting to replicate their famous sauces.
**1. Sweet Onion Sauce**
This sauce is surprisingly easy to make at home.
* **Ingredients:**
* 1/2 cup white onion, finely chopped
* 1/4 cup white vinegar
* 1/4 cup sugar
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* 1/2 cup water
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Pinch of salt
* **Instructions:**
1. In a saucepan, combine the chopped onion, white vinegar, and sugar.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
4. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan and stir constantly until the sauce thickens.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the garlic powder and salt.
6. Let the sauce cool completely before using. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
**2. Chipotle Southwest Sauce (Copycat)**
This sauce adds a smoky and spicy kick.
* **Ingredients:**
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons sour cream
* 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
* 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the can of chipotle peppers)
* 1 teaspoon lime juice
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon cumin
* Salt to taste
* **Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, combine all ingredients.
2. Mix well until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
## Customization is Key
The beauty of making Subway-style sandwiches at home is the ability to customize them to your exact preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of bread, protein, cheese, vegetables, and sauces. Here are some ideas to get you started:
* **For a vegetarian option:** Try using veggie patties, hummus, or grilled vegetables as your protein source.
* **For a gluten-free option:** Use gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps.
* **For a low-carb option:** Skip the bread altogether and create a salad bowl with your favorite Subway fillings.
* **Add a personal touch:** Experiment with different spices, herbs, and condiments to create your own signature sandwich.
## Beyond the Sandwich: Subway-Inspired Sides and Desserts
Complete your Subway experience with these homemade sides and desserts:
* **Cookies:** Recreate Subway’s famous cookies with homemade chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, or sugar cookies. There are countless recipes available online.
* **Chips:** Serve your sandwiches with a side of your favorite potato chips or tortilla chips.
* **Salad:** Create a side salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing.
## The Billion-Dollar Question: Will Homemade Beat the Original?
While Subway’s sale signifies a significant shift in the fast-food landscape, it also presents an opportunity to appreciate the simple pleasure of a well-made sandwich. By recreating Subway classics at home, you gain control over ingredients, quality, and customization. You can use higher-quality ingredients, tailor the flavors to your exact preferences, and avoid processed additives. Ultimately, the question of whether homemade beats the original is a matter of personal taste. However, with a little effort and creativity, you can certainly create a Subway-style sandwich that rivals, or even surpasses, the original in flavor and satisfaction. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner sandwich artist, and enjoy the delicious journey of recreating Subway classics in your own kitchen. As Subway embarks on a new chapter, you can create your own delicious story, one sandwich at a time.
This allows for ultimate control over ingredients and flavor profiles. Enjoy the possibilities!