A Grinder Sandwich is a type of sandwich commonly associated with New England and parts of the Northeastern United States. The grinder features a long, soft Italian-style sub roll filled with a variety of ingredients, typically meats, cheeses, vegetables, and condiments. The sandwich is often served warm, with the fillings toasted or melted, though it can also be served cold.Here’s a general breakdown of what you might find in a Grinder Sandwich:
Ingredients:
- Bread: A soft, chewy, Italian sub roll (often called a hoagie roll or baguette).
- Meat: This could include options like:
- Italian cold cuts (salami, ham, mortadella, capicola, etc.)
- Roast beef
- Chicken cutlets
- Meatballs
- Sausage
- Cheese: Common choices include mozzarella, provolone, or Parmesan.
- Toppings:
- Lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Onions
- Pickles
- Peppers (often banana or hot peppers)
- Condiments: Mayonnaise, mustard, oil and vinegar, Italian dressing, or marinara sauce (for meatball grinders).
- Seasonings: Often, grinders are sprinkled with oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning.
Variations:
- Hot Grinder: The sandwich is often toasted, melting the cheese and warming the fillings. A common version would be a meatball grinder (with marinara sauce) or a sausage grinder.
- Cold Grinder: Served as a traditional sub sandwich with cold cuts and no toasting.
