Real N’awlins Muffuletta: A Classic Muffuletta Sandwich Recipe
Welcome to the heart of New Orleans cuisine with the Real N’awlins Muffuletta, a genuine muffuletta sandwich recipe. This delightful creation originated in New Orleans over a century ago at a Sicilian deli, becoming an iconic staple of the region. However, what truly sets this delightful sandwich apart is its spicy, tangy olive salad, bringing a burst of flavors in every bite. So, if you’re eager to recreate this culinary masterpiece at home, let’s get started! Don’t forget to use the best quality ingredients, as they make a significant difference in taste!
Ingredients That Make the Muffuletta Sandwich Special
For this mouth-watering sandwich, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients. Encourage your taste buds with this unique assembly of classic deli meats, cheese, and a one-of-a-kind olive salad.
– 1 cup pimento-stuffed green olives, crushed
– ½ cup drained kalamata olives, crushed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– ¼ cup roughly chopped pickled cauliflower florets
– 2 tablespoons drained capers
– 1 tablespoon chopped celery
– 1 tablespoon chopped carrot
– ½ cup pepperoncini, drained
– ¼ cup marinated cocktail onions
– ½ teaspoon celery seed
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
– ¼ cup red wine vinegar
– ½ cup olive oil
– ¼ cup canola oil
– 2 (1 pound) loaves Italian bread
– 8 ounces thinly sliced Genoa salami
– 8 ounces thinly sliced cooked ham
– 8 ounces sliced mortadella
– 8 ounces sliced mozzarella cheese
– 8 ounces sliced provolone cheese
Instructions: Crafting the Perfect Muffuletta Sandwich
The preparation of the olive salad is what makes this Real N’awlins Muffuletta stand out. Therefore, it requires a little planning ahead. This recipe yields 8 delicious servings with a prep time of 40 minutes and an additional curing time of one day. Let’s dive into the method:
Step 1: Preparing the Olive Salad
Firstly, in a large bowl, combine the pimento-stuffed green olives, kalamata olives, minced garlic, pickled cauliflower, capers, celery, carrot, pepperoncini, and onions. Add the celery seed, dried oregano, dried basil, and ground black pepper. To clarify, this mixture forms the base of the delicious olive salad important to the muffuletta sandwich recipe.
Step 2: Adding the Dressings
Next, blend the red wine vinegar, olive oil, and canola oil together. Pour this dressing over the olive salad mixture, and stir until all ingredients are evenly coated. This lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 3: The Essential Marination Process
Furthermore, cover and refrigerate the olive salad for at least 24 hours. By marinating, the flavors deepen, which is crucial to achieving the distinctive taste of a genuine muffuletta sandwich recipe. Subsequently, the wait is definitely worth it!
Step 4: Assembling the Muffuletta Sandwich
The next day, it’s time for assembly! Slice each Italian bread loaf horizontally. However, do not slice all the way through; keep the top and bottom attached at one side. Remove some of the bread from the inside to make room for the fillings.
Step 5: Layering the Ingredients
Now, layer Genoa salami, cooked ham, mortadella, mozzarella cheese, and provolone cheese on the bottom half. Spread a generous portion of the prepared olive salad onto the meats and cheeses. Press gently but firmly to accentuate those luscious flavors.
Step 6: Final Touch
Finally, replace the top half of the bread and wrap the sandwich tightly in aluminum foil. While traditionally served cold, you can warm the sandwich in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for a gently warmed interior.
Healthier Cooking Method
As a healthy alternative, consider using whole grain Italian bread for additional fiber or reducing the quantity of cured meat. Moreover, a mix of olive oil and vinegar is slightly healthier than commercial dressings.
In Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Muffuletta Sandwich Recipe
Undeniably, the Real N’awlins Muffuletta is a sandwich bursting with flavors, ideal for any occasion. It’s perfect as a main dish, and its bold, zesty layers make it nutritious and satisfying. Enjoy a slice of New Orleans with this iconic muffuletta recipe, elegantly crafted and deliciously indulgent! Above all, share this culinary tradition with family and friends, and relish every hearty bite!
