Have you ever discovered a dish so mouthwatering, so sinfully decadent, that it feels like you’ve just unearthed a culinary treasure chest? That’s exactly how I felt when I first sampled the Hot Brown Sandwich. This Kentucky classic is as rich and comforting as a warm, woolen blanket on a cold winter’s night. But what makes this sandwich so remarkable, you ask?
Imagine sinking your teeth into a sandwich layered with tender turkey, ripe tomatoes, and crispy bacon, all smothered with a velvety, cheese sauce. The flavors meld together in a heavenly fusion, making each bite a moment of pure, unadulterated bliss. But enough of my drooling, let’s dive into what it takes to create this masterpiece!
The History of the Hot Brown Sandwich
This iconic dish was first created at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky in the 1920s. The chef, Fred K. Schmidt, was looking for a way to feed the late-night crowd that would frequent the hotel after dancing the night away. The usual ham and egg late-night fare seemed too heavy.
Instead, he came up with the Hot Brown Sandwich – an open-faced turkey sandwich covered in a creamy Mornay sauce. It was an instant hit and to this day remains a beloved specialty in Kentucky and beyond.
What Makes a Perfect Hot Brown Sandwich?
A perfect Hot Brown Sandwich starts with high-quality ingredients. Fresh, juicy turkey slices are key, not to mention ripe tomatoes and crispy bacon. But the showstopper here is the Mornay sauce – a white cheese sauce made from a mixture of Gruyère and Parmesan. It’s velvety, creamy, and oh-so-indulgent.
Of course, the dish wouldn’t be complete without a sprinkling of extra cheese on top, which is then broiled until bubbly and golden. The result? A decadent, open-faced sandwich that’s bursting with flavor.
Creating Your Own Hot Brown Sandwich at Home
Creating this iconic sandwich at home is simpler than you might think. While the ingredients list may seem a bit extensive, most are pantry staples. And don’t be intimidated by the Mornay sauce; it’s really just a basic bechamel with cheese added in. Trust me, once you’ve made it, you’ll want to drizzle it on just about everything!
Remember, the key is in the quality of the ingredients. Opt for the freshest, highest-quality turkey, tomatoes, and bacon you can find. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients
- 4 slices of thick bread
- 2 tomatoes
- 8 slices of turkey
- 8 slices of crispy bacon
- For the Mornay Sauce:
- 2 cups of milk
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 cup of grated Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by making the Mornay sauce: melt the butter in a saucepan, add the flour and stir until smooth. Gradually add in the milk while stirring constantly. Once it’s thick, add the cheeses and continue stirring until they’ve melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toast the bread slices and place them on a baking tray. Layer the turkey and tomatoes on top of each slice, then pour over the Mornay sauce. Top each sandwich with 2 slices of bacon.
- Broil in the oven until the sauce is bubbly and begins to brown. Serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Tips for Hot Brown Sandwich
For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a dash of paprika or nutmeg to your Mornay sauce. Also, to ensure maximum crispness for your bacon, fry it separately before adding to the sandwich. And remember, this dish is best served hot, so don’t let it sit around for too long before indulging!
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
The Hot Brown Sandwich is not just a sandwich; it’s an experience. It marries classic ingredients in an unexpected and decadent way, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re a sandwich enthusiast or a culinary adventurer, this Kentucky classic is a must-try.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Carbohydrate: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 35g