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You know what's funny about this sandwich? Every time I make it, I think about my Uncle Joe, who swore he invented it one late night after a Yankees game. Truth is, this sky-high stack of deli meats has probably been around longer than baseball, but in our family, it'll always be Uncle Joe's creation.
Last Sunday, my nephew demolished two of these while telling me about his first day of high school. Sometimes the best conversations happen over a really good sandwich.
Essential Ingredients
- White bread: nothing fancy, just the squishy kind from the bread aisle
- Four different deli meats: (hear me out - it's worth it)
- Russian dressing: (store-bought is fine, I won't tell)
- Shredded lettuce: that's actually crisp
- Mayo: the real stuff, not the light version. This isn't that kind of sandwich
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Building Your Masterpiece
- First things first:
- Spread that mayo on your bread. My grandma used to say it creates a "waterproof jacket" for the bread. She wasn't wrong - keeps everything from getting soggy.
- Start layering those meats:
- Like you're building the world's tastiest skyscraper. I usually go ham first (because why not?), then turkey (the sensible middle child), roast beef (the show-off), and finally salami (the flavor bomb on top). Between each layer, throw in some of that shredded lettuce. It's like giving your sandwich little crunchy breaks.
- Here's a secret I learned the hard way:
- You've got to let this beast rest for about 30 minutes before cutting it. First time I made it for a picnic, I rushed it and ended up with what looked like a deli meat explosion. Now I know better.
Remember that time I tried to be fancy and used artisanal sourdough? Big mistake. Some things are classics for a reason. Plain old white bread holds this beauty together perfectly.
Perfect Timing
Make it ahead if you want, but not too ahead. Nobody likes sad lettuce.
Serving Suggestions
Cut it into triangles if you're feeling fancy, squares if you're practical. Add some pickle spears on the side because, well, pickles make everything better.
Make It Your Own
Throw in some cheese if that's your thing. Add banana peppers if you're feeling spicy. My kid adds potato chips inside his - weird, but who am I to judge?
Keep It Fresh
Wrap it tight in plastic wrap if you're saving it for later. It'll keep in the fridge overnight, but let's be honest - it never lasts that long.
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You know what's funny? After all these years of making this sandwich, it still makes me smile when someone takes that first big bite and their eyes light up. There's something magical about a really good sandwich, isn't there?
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this ahead?
- Yes, perfect for prep ahead and serving chilled.
- → How to keep it from getting soggy?
- Layer lettuce between meats to protect bread.
- → Can I use different meats?
- Yes, customize with your favorite deli meats.
- → How long does it keep?
- Best eaten same day but keeps 24 hours refrigerated.
- → Can I make it gluten-free?
- Yes, use gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps.