Real N’awlins Muffuletta Recipe Review: A Taste of New Orleans at Home
If you’ve ever been to New Orleans, chances are you’ve heard of—or tasted—the iconic Muffuletta sandwich. This hearty, flavorful sandwich is a staple of NOLA cuisine, and recreating it at home can transport you straight to the bustling streets of the French Quarter. Today, we’re reviewing a classic Real N’awlins Muffuletta recipe that promises to deliver the authentic taste of this beloved sandwich. Here’s our take on the recipe, including tips, tricks, and whether it lives up to the hype.
What is a Muffuletta?
For the uninitiated, the Muffuletta is a sandwich that originated in New Orleans, specifically at Central Grocery. It’s made with a round Sicilian sesame bread, stuffed with layers of Italian cold cuts (like ham, salami, and mortadella), provolone cheese, and a tangy olive salad. The combination of flavors and textures is what makes this sandwich truly special.
The Recipe: Real N’awlins Muffuletta
Ingredients
- For the Olive Salad:
- 1 cup green olives, chopped
- 1 cup black olives, chopped
- 1/2 cup giardiniera (pickled vegetables), chopped
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Sandwich:
- 1 large round Muffuletta loaf or Sicilian sesame bread
- 6 slices ham
- 6 slices Genoa salami
- 6 slices mortadella
- 6 slices provolone cheese
Instructions
- Make the Olive Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine all the olive salad ingredients. Mix well and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (overnight is best for maximum flavor).
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Slice the bread horizontally and hollow out some of the soft interior to make room for the fillings.
- Spread a generous layer of the olive salad on the bottom half of the bread.
- Layer the ham, salami, mortadella, and provolone cheese on top of the olive salad.
- Add another layer of olive salad on top of the meats and cheese.
- Place the top half of the bread on the sandwich and press down gently.
- Serve:
- Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cut into wedges and serve.
Review of the Recipe
What Works
- The Olive Salad:
The olive salad is the star of the show. The combination of briny olives, tangy pickled vegetables, and aromatic garlic creates a flavor explosion that’s both bold and balanced. Letting it marinate overnight enhances the depth of flavor, making it truly authentic. - The Meats and Cheese:
The trio of ham, salami, and mortadella provides a perfect balance of savory and salty flavors, while the provolone cheese adds a creamy, slightly tangy note. The layers of meat and cheese are generous, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. - The Bread:
Using a traditional Muffuletta loaf or Sicilian sesame bread is key. The sturdy, slightly chewy texture holds up well to the hearty fillings and olive salad without becoming soggy.
What Could Be Improved
- Accessibility of Ingredients:
Depending on where you live, finding a true Muffuletta loaf or specific Italian cold cuts might be challenging. However, substitutions like ciabatta or focaccia bread and similar deli meats can work in a pinch. - Time Commitment:
While the recipe is relatively simple, the olive salad requires marinating time, and the sandwich benefits from resting before serving. This isn’t a quick meal, but it’s worth the effort for a special occasion.
Tips for Success
- Make the Olive Salad Ahead: Prepare the olive salad a day in advance to save time and enhance the flavors.
- Press the Sandwich: Use a heavy skillet or sandwich press to lightly compress the sandwich before serving. This helps meld the flavors and makes it easier to cut.
- Customize It: Add your favorite Italian meats or cheeses to make the recipe your own.
Final Verdict
The Real N’awlins Muffuletta recipe is a winner. It captures the essence of the iconic New Orleans sandwich with its bold flavors, hearty fillings, and perfect balance of textures. While it requires some planning and effort, the result is a sandwich that’s worth every minute. Whether you’re hosting a party, craving a taste of NOLA, or simply looking to try something new, this recipe is a must-try.
Rating: 5/5
Why You Should Try It
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves bold, flavorful sandwiches or wants to bring a taste of New Orleans into their kitchen. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a slice of New Orleans with this delicious Muffuletta recipe!
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