A spectacularly complex aspect of any sandwich, acid plays an important role in any top tier sandwich. It can be added via sauce, vegetable, fruit, or spice, but it is necessary to carefully balance it against the other ingredients. One of the most artistic things you can do with a sandwich is to add a powerful acidic ingredient – like vinegar or lemon – and then apply heat so it will react with another part and create a new and interesting flavor. Some classic and spicy ways to brighten up a sandwich are adding a pickle in a Cubano or a tomato slice in a BLT.
Acid’s strongest role is in cutting fatty flavors, allowing ridiculously rich creations, such as short rib grilled cheese sandwiches. These two rich flavors are normally too heavy to exist side by side but, by adding strong mustard, we can enjoy them together without filling up on the first bite. Through this method, acid opens doors for new and novel sandwiches by unlocking combinations that would be otherwise unpleasant or one-dimensional.
Some of the optimal acids to incorporate into sandwiches include the following:
- Pickled Fruits:
- Pickles (Cucumber)
- Pears
- Apples
- Lemons
- Spicy Peppers
- Pickled Vegetables:
- Kimchi (Cabbage)
- Beets
- Carrots
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Piccalilli
- Sauce:
- Honey
- Balsamic Vinegar
- Yogurt
- Mustard
- Tomato Sauce
- BBQ Sauce
- Hot Sauce
- Harissa
- Spices:
- White Pepper
- Star Anise
- Cinnamon
- Cheese:
- Blue Cheese
- Roquefort
