The Ultimate Italian Hero
The Ultimate Italian Hero – this classic sandwich has many names, and every deli makes it differently. Its deliciousness lies in the proportion of rich-and-fatty ingredients to spicy-and-crunchy ones.
For optimal structure and texture, start with crusty rolls with pillowy insides (or toast soft rolls).
The Ultimate Italian Hero – Use two to four types of cured meat for a range of umami, and plenty of lettuce and pickles to counterbalance them.
Then assemble wisely: Shingle the meat and cheese across the rolls, then top with pickles, onions and dressed lettuce.
Once put together, the wet ingredients are wrapped in meat so they’re held in place and the bread doesn’t get soggy.
The Ultimate Italian Hero – Wrap with parchment or wax paper for tidier eating and transporting.
The Ultimate Italian Hero Recipe
Rinse the red onion under cold water, then transfer to a large bowl.
Add the red wine vinegar, dried oregano and 1 teaspoon salt.
Stir to combine and set aside.
Arrange the rolls cut side up so they lie flat.
Spread with a thin layer of mustard and/or mayonnaise, if using.
Shingle the entire surface with the cheese, then the cured meats.
Scatter an even layer of pickled peppers.
Add the iceberg lettuce and olive oil to the onion-oregano mixture and toss until well coated.
Season to taste with salt.
Pile the lettuce on one side of the sandwich, then close the sandwich and press down lightly.
If packing, wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper or foil, then cut in half crosswise.
Sandwiches will keep for up to 4 hours refrigerated.
The Ultimate Italian Hero Recipe
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1½ tablespoons dried oregano
Kosher salt (Diamond Crystal)
4 (6- to 8-inch-long) sub, hero or hoagie rolls, split lengthwise but attached on one side
Mustard and/or mayonnaise (optional)
4 ounces sliced provolone and/or low-moisture mozzarella cheese
1 pound thinly sliced Italian cured meats, such as salami, prosciutto, mortadella, coppa and/or soppressata
1 cup sliced pickled peppers, such as pepperoncini, banana peppers, giardiniera and/or jalapeños
1 small head iceberg lettuce (about 1 pound), thinly sliced
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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