Chopped Grinder Sandwich Recipe: A Delightful Blend of Flavors
Welcome to the world of culinary delights where every bite is a symphony of flavors. Today, we are diving into the heart of New Jersey's famous sandwich, th……
Welcome to the world of culinary delights where every bite is a symphony of flavors. Today, we are diving into the heart of New Jersey's famous sandwich, the Chopped Grinder. This recipe is not only a tribute to the classic but also an invitation to elevate your sandwich game. Let's embark on this culinary journey together.
**Ingredients:**
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sauerkraut
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
**Instructions:**
1. **Preparing the Meat Mixture:**
Begin by seasoning the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to ensure even distribution of spices.
2. **Cooking the Meat:**
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Once cooked, transfer the meat to a plate and let it cool.
3. **Preparing the Vegetables:**
While the meat is cooling, finely chop the onion and green bell pepper. In the same skillet used for the meat, sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper until they are tender but still retain their crunch.
4. **Assembling the Sandwich:**
Slice the hoagie rolls in half lengthwise. On the bottom half of each roll, layer the provolone and mozzarella cheese. Add a generous amount of sauerkraut and coleslaw mix on top of the cheese. Sprinkle the cooked ground beef on top of the coleslaw mix.
5. **Adding the Toppings:**
Sautéed onions and bell peppers go on top of the ground beef. Drizzle Dijon mustard over the vegetables, followed by a layer of mayonnaise. Sprinkle a mixture of apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper over the mayonnaise for a tangy finish.
6. **Closing the Sandwich:**
Place the top half of the hoagie roll on each sandwich, pressing down gently to secure the filling. The sandwich is now ready to be enjoyed hot or at room temperature.
**Tips for the Perfect Chopped Grinder:**
- **Quality Ingredients:** Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Freshly ground beef and freshly chopped vegetables make all the difference.
- **Even Cooking:** Ensure the meat is cooked evenly to avoid any raw patches. This will guarantee a safe and delicious sandwich.
- **Layering:** The order in which you layer the ingredients is crucial. Start with the cheese, followed by the sauerkraut and coleslaw mix, then the meat, and finally, the vegetables and dressings.
**Conclusion:**
The Chopped Grinder Sandwich is a masterpiece of flavors that combines savory, tangy, and slightly sweet elements. It's a perfect blend of comfort food and gourmet delight. Whether you're a fan of classic New Jersey sandwiches or looking to explore new culinary horizons, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy your homemade Chopped Grinder Sandwich and savor every bite of this culinary delight. Bon appétit!