Today is National Sandwich Day, an annual celebration held in honour of the universally cherished dish that is the sandwich. Whilst sandwiches are often associated with packed lunches and quick meals, we must not forget about their versatility, especially...
Today is National Sandwich Day, an annual celebration held in honour of the universally cherished dish that is the sandwich. Whilst sandwiches are often associated with packed lunches and quick meals, we must not forget about their versatility, especially when it comes to barbecuing! As you unravel the various layers of your favourite sandwich, be it a classic BLT or club, we invite you to explore the endless possibilities that unfold when you combine a sandwich with the sizzling and smoky allure of BBQ. From toasted bread and tender grilled meats to melted cheese and a mountain of toppings, you can transform an ordinary sandwich into a gourmet dish. Below we have listed our top sandwich recipes to inspire you, perfect for restaurant/pub owners and caterers who want to add a new, mouthwatering dish onto their lunch or evening time menu.
Before we delve into the recipes, what is National Sandwich Day all about?
Background Information
The splendid Sandwich Day dates back to 1762, commemorating the birth of John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, the ingenious mind behind the universally loved dish. It is said that Montagu requested his servant to bring him meat tucked between two pieces of bread, so he could continue to gamble without using utensils or getting greasy fingers on playing cards. Over time, this tasty invention gained in popularity, with people ordering their food ‘The Same as Sandwich’ until it was shortened to just ‘Sandwich’. Whilst some historians believe the term arrived before 1762 (as early as 1st Century BC!), Montagu was the catalyst, evolving the dish into the diverse array of sandwiches we savour today.
This year, we encourage you to honour the Earl with a feast of BBQ sandwiches, showcasing the robust flavours and smoky aromas that are a signature to barbecuing.
4 Must-try BBQ Sandwich Recipes
Grilled Steak Sandwich
Being the epitome of American BBQ, steak sandwiches are probably one of the most common and popular sandwich types in the barbecuing world. Although the Philly Cheesesteak is the most renowned steak sandwich, loaded with beef, cheese, and onions, why not try a different take? This Argentine-inspired sandwich by Sainsbury’s is the perfect alternative, layering succulent steak with a vibrant chimichurri, to produce a dish that is an undeniable treat for the palate. We recommend toasting your choice of bread on the grill, to create an unforgettable celebration of textures.
Chicken Caesar Sandwich
For a lighter, yet equally delicious option, you could consider a chicken sandwich. With chicken, the secret lies within the marinade, helping to tenderise the meat before grilling whilst adding a wealth of flavour. We discovered this recipe by Bon Appétit that combines the humble sandwich with the popular Caesar salad. The combination of charred chicken, tangy mustard-mayo, and refreshing slaw adds layers of complexity to each bite.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Grilled cheese sandwiches are probably one of the easiest and quickest dishes to make, especially on those cosy, winter afternoons. Although grilled cheese is cherished by many people in its simplest form, National Sandwich Day is the perfect opportunity to take it to the next level and create a culinary masterpiece. This Mexican Birria grilled sandwich by Over the Fire Cooking looks mouth-wateringly good – spicy, cheesy, and filled with pulled beef short rib, it is a dish that you will never want to take off of your menu.
Vegetarian/Vegan Sandwich
For our vegetarian/vegan readers, you are not forgotten! Whilst BBQ is traditionally renowned for meats, there are still plenty of veggie-friendly dishes to try. This pulled portobello BBQ sandwich by Vanilla and Bean is a fantastic choice for guests with dietary preferences. Smoky, savoury, and delightfully messy, these sandwiches feature barbecued portobello mushrooms bathed in a BBQ sauce, delivering a hearty and satisfying bite without the meat.
As we enjoy National Sandwich Day 2023, let’s salute the Earl of Sandwich’s brilliant invention by indulging in the finest BBQ dishes. At Cinders, our premium BBQ equipment is designed to empower both professional chefs and amateur grill masters, providing reliability and efficiency for delicious results no matter the occasion. Do you only require a grill for your event? We offer a local search for a barbecue rental service.