Philly Style Submarine Sandwich Recipe

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Growing up in a family that revered the art of sandwich-making, I was introduced to the magic of the Philly Style Sub early on. It wasn’t just a meal; it was an experience. The layers of flavors, the crunch, the harmony of meats, cheeses, and veggies, all nestled within a soft yet satisfyingly chewy bun, captivated my senses. It was, and still is, a culinary hug that brings warmth and comfort, a taste of home, no matter where you are.

I will share an authentic Philly Style Submarine Sandwich recipe that has been passed down in my family for generations. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a piece of my heritage, a slice of Philly’s soul, prepared and presented with love.

How to make Philly Style Submarine Sandwich

The Philly Style Submarine Sandwich is a variation of the classic submarine sandwich, often associated with Philadelphia. It’s similar to a traditional sub but with some regional twists.

Ingredients:

You’ll need a harmonious blend of fresh ingredients and quality deli meats and cheeses to make the perfect Philly Style Submarine Sandwich. Here’s what you’ll gather:

• 1 foot-long Italian roll or hoagie roll: The foundation of any good sub should be fresh, with a slightly crusty outside and soft inside.
• 1/4 lb thinly sliced deli ham: A layer of ham adds a savory depth to the sandwich.
• 1/4 lb thinly sliced genoa salami: For that sharp, rich flavor that salami is known for.
• 1/4 lb thinly sliced prosciutto: This brings a wonderfully salty and umami flavor.
• 1/4 lb sliced provolone cheese: Its mild, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor complements the meats beautifully.
• Lettuce, thinly sliced: Adds crunch and freshness.
• Tomato, thinly sliced: For a bit of sweetness and acidity.
• Onions, thinly sliced: Optional for those who love a bit of sharpness.
• Oregano: To sprinkle on top for that herby touch.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• Olive oil and red wine vinegar: For dressing the sandwich, adding moisture and a punchy flavor.
• Mayonnaise and/or mustard: Based on personal preference.

Instructions:

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by slicing your lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. Set aside. Have your meats and cheese ready to layer.
2. Slice the Roll: Carefully slice the Italian or hoagie roll lengthwise, being sure not to cut all the way through; it should open like a book.
3. Layer the Meats and Cheese: Start with a layer of provolone cheese on the bottom half of the roll. Follow this with layers of ham, salami, and prosciutto. Layering the cheese first near the bread can help prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy.
4. Add the Veggies: On top of the meat, add your lettuce, tomato, and onions. This sequence helps keep the veggies crisp and fresh, sandwiched between the layers.
5. Season and Dress: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and oregano over the veggies. Then, drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar across the sandwich. If desired, apply a thin layer of mayonnaise and/or mustard on the inside of the top half of the roll.
6. Close and Serve: Gently close the sandwich, pressing down slightly to ensure everything melds together without squishing the contents. If preferred, cut the sandwich in half for easier handling.

Tips for the Perfect Philly Style Submarine Sandwich:

• Quality Ingredients: The secret to a memorable Philly Sub is using the best quality, fresh ingredients. Visit a reputable deli for your meats and cheese, and if possible, pick up produce from a local farmer’s market.
• Bread: The roll is crucial. It must be sturdy enough to hold all the ingredients without falling apart but not so hard that it’s difficult to bite through.
• Balance: Striking a balance between the meats, cheese, veggies, and dressing ensures every bite is a perfect symphony of flavors.
• Dressing: Don’t overdo it with the oil and vinegar; a light drizzle adds moisture and zest without making the sandwich soggy.
• Customization: Feel free to adjust the quantities and ingredients based on personal preference. Some may add pepperoni for an extra kick or swap out veggies based on what’s in season.

What to serve with

Serving the perfect sides with a Philly Style Submarine Sandwich can elevate your meal from good to great. When selecting accompaniments, balance is key—you’ll want flavors and textures that complement rather than overshadow the star of the meal. Here are some classic and contemporary options to round off your sandwich experience:

1. Potato Chips: Crispy, salty potato chips are a classic side dish that pairs well with the soft, rich textures of the sub. Whether you prefer plain, ridged, or flavored chips, they offer a delightful crunch and contrast.

2. Pasta Salad: A colorful, zesty pasta salad can be refreshing, especially during warmer months. Use a vinaigrette base to keep it light, incorporating fresh vegetables, herbs, and perhaps some mozzarella cheese for an Italian touch.

3. Coleslaw: The creamy tanginess of coleslaw can complement the richness of the submarine sandwich. A slaw with a vinegar base can add a sharp contrast, while a mayonnaise-based slaw provides a soothing creamy texture.

4. Pickles and Olives: A selection of pickled vegetables, including classic cucumbers, alongside a variety of olives can provide a sharp, tangy contrast to the sandwich. Their acidity and saltiness cut through the richness of the meats and cheeses beautifully.

5. French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: French fries are always a welcome addition to sandwiches. Their crispy texture and salty flavor make them irresistible. For a healthier or sweeter twist, sweet potato fries are a fantastic alternative.

6. Stuffed Peppers: Small peppers stuffed with cheese and/or prosciutto provide a little Italian flair that complements the meats in the Philly Style Sub. They’re also easy to make in advance and serve chilled or at room temperature.

7. Garden Salad: For a lighter side, a fresh garden salad with a variety of lettuces, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light dressing can offer a refreshing contrast to the savory sandwich. It’s also an excellent way to add more vegetables to your meal.

8. Antipasto Plate: An antipasto plate featuring marinated artichoke hearts, sundried tomatoes, assorted cheeses, cured meats, and crusty bread can turn your sandwich meal into a full Italian feast. This is ideal for larger gatherings or a more upscale lunch.

9. Roasted Vegetables: A mixture of roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and onions seasoned with herbs and olive oil can offer a warm, hearty side. Their natural sweetness and charred edges provide an excellent flavor profile that pairs well with the sandwich.

10. Soup: A cup of soup, particularly tomato basil or light minestrone, can be a cozy and comforting addition, especially in cooler weather. It adds a different texture and a warm element to the meal.

11. Seasonal Fruit Salad: Consider a seasonal fruit salad for a sweet, fresh counterpoint to the sandwich. Choose fruits that are in season for the best flavor, and perhaps add a sprinkle of mint for an extra layer of freshness.

Ingredients Substitutes

Creating a Philly Style Submarine Sandwich often involves specific ingredients to capture the authentic flavors of Philadelphia’s famous hoagies. However, there might be times when you need to substitute ingredients due to dietary restrictions, availability, or personal taste preferences. Below are some ingredient substitutes for various components of the sandwich:

Bread:

Traditional choice: Italian hoagie roll

Substitutes:

• Other soft sub-roll varieties can work if you can’t find an Italian hoagie roll. A French baguette or ciabatta roll could also serve the purpose, though they may have a crispier crust.

Deli Meats:

Traditional choices: Italian ham, salami, prosciutto

Substitutes:

• For a vegetarian option, consider grilled portobello mushrooms, zucchini slices, or a vegan deli meat alternative.
• For a less fatty option, you might want turkey or chicken breast.
• If you’re avoiding pork, consider beef salami or turkey-based deli meats.

Cheese:

Traditional choice: Provolone cheese

Substitutes:

• Mozzarella can provide similar melting properties and a mild taste.
• Swiss cheese or Monterey Jack can be used for a slightly different flavor profile.
• For a dairy-free alternative, use a vegan cheese that melts well.

Vegetables:

Traditional choices: Lettuce, tomatoes, onions

Substitutes:

• Swap out iceberg lettuce for romaine or spinach for more nutritional value.
• If you’re not a fan of raw onions, consider caramelized onions for a sweeter option.
• Roasted red peppers can be used in place of or in addition to tomatoes.

Seasonings:

Traditional choices: Oregano, salt, pepper

Substitutes:

• While oregano is classic, you can experiment with an Italian seasoning blend for more complexity.
• Mrs. Dash or other salt-free seasoning blends can replace salt for those watching their sodium intake.

Olive Oil and Vinegar:

Traditional choice: Olive oil, red wine vinegar

Substitutes:

• Use balsamic vinegar for a sweeter, more syrupy condiment.
• For a lighter alternative, a vinegar-based salad dressing can provide a similar tangy profile with fewer calories.
• For those avoiding oil, simply omit it or use a tiny amount of oil spray to reduce fat content.

Final Thoughts

Making a Philly Style Submarine Sandwich is as much about the technique and assembly as it is about the ingredients. It’s a labor of love, a dedication to the craft of sandwich-making that, when done correctly, results in a gourmet experience that’s unrivaled. 

More Sandwich Recipes:

• Captain D’s Fish Sandwich Homemade Recipe
• Oatmeal Sandwich Cookies
• Cookie Sandwich Recipe
• Philly Cheese Steak Wrap
• Sugar Cookie Sandwich