Are you a fan of Starbucks’ Bacon Gouda Sandwich, but want to enjoy it from the comfort of your own home? Look no further. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of recreating this delicious sandwich, with a few tweaks to make it even better.
Understanding the Original
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at the original Bacon Gouda Sandwich from Starbucks. This sandwich typically consists of:
- Applewood-smoked bacon
- Melted Gouda cheese
- A sweet and tangy fig jam
- Fresh arugula
- A toasted baguette
The combination of flavors and textures is what makes this sandwich so unique and delicious. The smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the creamy Gouda cheese, while the fig jam adds a sweet and tangy element. The peppery flavor of the arugula adds a nice contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
Gathering Ingredients and Equipment
To make a Bacon Gouda Sandwich like Starbucks, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 slices of applewood-smoked bacon
- 2 tablespoons of fig jam
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups of arugula
- 2 cups of shredded Gouda cheese
- 1 baguette, sliced in half lengthwise
- Salt and pepper to taste
You’ll also need the following equipment:
- A skillet or griddle for cooking the bacon
- A toaster or toaster oven for toasting the baguette
- A cheese grater for grating the Gouda cheese
- A knife for spreading the fig jam and butter
Choosing the Right Bacon
The type of bacon you use is crucial to the flavor of the sandwich. Applewood-smoked bacon is the best choice, as it has a rich, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the Gouda cheese. If you can’t find applewood-smoked bacon, you can substitute it with regular bacon, but the flavor won’t be the same.
Preparing the Fig Jam
The fig jam is a key component of the sandwich, adding a sweet and tangy element to the flavor profile. You can make your own fig jam by cooking down fresh figs with some sugar and water, or you can use store-bought fig jam. If you’re using store-bought fig jam, make sure to choose a high-quality brand that doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives or flavorings.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that we have all the ingredients and equipment, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Cooking the Bacon
Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the bacon slices until they’re crispy and golden brown, flipping them halfway through. This should take about 6-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon.
Toasting the Baguette
While the bacon is cooking, toast the baguette slices in a toaster or toaster oven. You want the bread to be lightly toasted, with a crispy crust and a soft interior.
Spreading the Fig Jam and Butter
Once the baguette is toasted, spread a layer of fig jam on each slice. You want a thin layer, just enough to add a hint of sweetness to the sandwich. Next, spread a layer of softened butter on top of the fig jam. This will help to balance out the sweetness of the fig jam and add a richness to the sandwich.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Place a few slices of cooked bacon on each baguette slice, followed by a sprinkle of shredded Gouda cheese. Top with a handful of fresh arugula and place the other baguette slice on top.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your Bacon Gouda Sandwich to the next level:
- Use a panini press: If you have a panini press, use it to grill the sandwich and melt the cheese. This will add a crispy crust to the bread and a gooey, melted cheese.
- Add some caramelized onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory element to the sandwich. Simply cook some onions in a pan with a little bit of oil until they’re soft and caramelized.
- Use a different type of cheese: While Gouda is the traditional choice for this sandwich, you can also use other types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone.
Conclusion
Recreating the Bacon Gouda Sandwich from Starbucks is easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients and some basic equipment, you can make a delicious sandwich that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you’re a fan of the original or just looking for a new sandwich to try, this recipe is sure to please.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a sandwich that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. The combination of flavors and textures is what makes this sandwich so unique, and with a few tweaks, you can make it even better.
So next time you’re in the mood for a Bacon Gouda Sandwich, don’t head to Starbucks – head to your kitchen and start cooking. With a little bit of creativity and some basic ingredients, you can create a sandwich that’s sure to become a favorite.
What type of bread is best for a Bacon Gouda Sandwich like Starbucks?
For a Bacon Gouda Sandwich similar to Starbucks, it’s essential to choose the right bread. The coffee giant uses a Ciabatta bread, which is a type of Italian bread known for its airy holes and slightly crispy crust. You can find Ciabatta bread at most grocery stores or bakeries. If you can’t find Ciabatta, you can also use a rustic bread or a baguette as a substitute.
When selecting your bread, make sure it’s fresh and has a slightly crispy crust. You can also toast the bread lightly before assembling the sandwich to give it a crispy texture. Avoid using a dense or heavy bread, as it can overpower the other flavors in the sandwich.
What type of cheese is used in a Bacon Gouda Sandwich like Starbucks?
The cheese used in a Bacon Gouda Sandwich like Starbucks is, of course, Gouda. Specifically, it’s a smoked Gouda cheese that adds a rich and creamy flavor to the sandwich. You can find smoked Gouda cheese at most grocery stores or specialty cheese shops. If you can’t find smoked Gouda, you can also use a regular Gouda cheese as a substitute.
When using Gouda cheese, make sure to slice it thinly so it melts evenly and doesn’t overpower the other flavors in the sandwich. You can also use a combination of Gouda and other cheeses, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to create a unique flavor profile.
How do I cook the bacon for a Bacon Gouda Sandwich like Starbucks?
To cook the bacon for a Bacon Gouda Sandwich like Starbucks, you’ll want to use thick-cut bacon and cook it until it’s crispy. You can cook the bacon in a pan on the stovetop or in the oven. To cook the bacon in a pan, simply place the bacon slices in a pan over medium heat and cook until crispy, flipping halfway through.
To cook the bacon in the oven, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. Place the bacon slices on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy. Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool before assembling the sandwich.
What type of spread is used in a Bacon Gouda Sandwich like Starbucks?
The spread used in a Bacon Gouda Sandwich like Starbucks is a garlic aioli. The garlic aioli adds a rich and creamy flavor to the sandwich, and helps to balance out the smokiness of the bacon and the Gouda cheese. You can make your own garlic aioli by mixing together mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice.
If you don’t have time to make your own garlic aioli, you can also use a store-bought version. Simply spread a layer of garlic aioli on the bread before assembling the sandwich. You can also use other spreads, such as mustard or mayonnaise, if you prefer.
How do I assemble a Bacon Gouda Sandwich like Starbucks?
To assemble a Bacon Gouda Sandwich like Starbucks, start by spreading a layer of garlic aioli on the bread. Next, add a few slices of cooked bacon on top of the aioli. Then, add a slice or two of Gouda cheese on top of the bacon. Finally, top the sandwich off with some fresh lettuce and tomato.
When assembling the sandwich, make sure to use high-quality ingredients and to assemble the sandwich carefully. You want to make sure that all of the flavors and textures are balanced and that the sandwich is easy to eat. You can also customize the sandwich to your liking by adding other ingredients, such as avocado or spinach.
Can I customize a Bacon Gouda Sandwich like Starbucks to my liking?
Yes, you can definitely customize a Bacon Gouda Sandwich like Starbucks to your liking. One way to customize the sandwich is to add other ingredients, such as avocado or spinach. You can also use different types of cheese or bacon to create a unique flavor profile.
Another way to customize the sandwich is to use different types of bread or spreads. For example, you could use a whole wheat bread instead of Ciabatta, or use a spicy mustard instead of garlic aioli. The key is to experiment and find the combination of ingredients that you enjoy the most.
How do I store leftover Bacon Gouda Sandwiches like Starbucks?
If you have leftover Bacon Gouda Sandwiches like Starbucks, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. To store the sandwiches, simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat the sandwiches, simply remove them from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature.
You can also freeze the sandwiches for up to a month. To freeze the sandwiches, simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat the sandwiches, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then let them come to room temperature before serving.