Elvis Presley, the legendary musician and cultural icon, left an indelible mark on the world of music, fashion, and even food. Among his many passions, Elvis had a weakness for a particular sandwich that has become synonymous with his name – the Peanut Butter, Banana, and Bacon Sandwich. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of this iconic sandwich, its significance in Elvis’ life, and most importantly, provide a step-by-step guide on how to make it.
A Brief History of the Peanut Butter, Banana, and Bacon Sandwich
The origins of the Peanut Butter, Banana, and Bacon Sandwich are shrouded in mystery, but it’s widely believed to have been created by Elvis’ favorite chef, Alvena “Al” Wheeler, at the Arcade Restaurant in Memphis, Tennessee. Wheeler, who worked at the restaurant from 1954 to 1964, claimed to have made the sandwich for Elvis on numerous occasions, often serving it to him at 3 am after a long night of performing.
The sandwich quickly became a staple in Elvis’ diet, with some sources suggesting that he would often eat it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors resonated with Elvis’ eclectic taste buds, and it’s said that he would often request the sandwich even when he was on tour.
Why the Peanut Butter, Banana, and Bacon Sandwich Was Elvis’ Favorite
So, what made this sandwich so special to Elvis? There are several theories, but here are a few possible reasons:
- Childhood nostalgia: Elvis grew up in a poor household, where peanut butter and bananas were staples. The combination of these two ingredients may have reminded him of his childhood and provided a sense of comfort.
- Sweet and savory combination: Elvis was known for his love of sweet and savory flavors, and the Peanut Butter, Banana, and Bacon Sandwich delivers on both fronts. The sweetness of the banana and peanut butter is balanced by the smokiness of the bacon, creating a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.
- Convenience: As a busy musician, Elvis often had to eat on the go. The Peanut Butter, Banana, and Bacon Sandwich is a self-contained meal that’s easy to eat on the road, making it a convenient option for Elvis’ hectic lifestyle.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients and equipment you’ll need:
- 2 slices of white bread (Elvis preferred Wonder Bread)
- 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter
- 1 ripe banana, sliced
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
- 1 skillet or griddle
- 1 cutting board
- 1 knife
- 1 spatula
Choosing the Right Bread
The bread is a crucial component of the Peanut Butter, Banana, and Bacon Sandwich. Elvis preferred Wonder Bread, which was a staple in many American households during the 1950s and 1960s. If you can’t find Wonder Bread, you can substitute it with any other white bread that’s soft and fluffy.
Preparing the Bacon
The bacon is another essential component of the sandwich. You’ll want to use thick-cut bacon that’s smoked to perfection. Look for bacon that’s labeled “applewood-smoked” or “hickory-smoked” for the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment, let’s move on to the recipe. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Elvis’ favorite sandwich:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook until they’re crispy and golden brown. Flip the bacon halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.
Tips for Cooking the Perfect Bacon
- Use a thermometer to ensure the skillet or griddle reaches the optimal temperature (around 325°F).
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet or griddle, as this can cause the bacon to steam instead of sear.
- Use a spatula to gently press down on the bacon, which will help it cook more evenly.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
While the bacon is cooking, toast the bread slices until they’re lightly browned. You can use a toaster or toast the bread in the skillet or griddle.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Once the bacon is cooked and the bread is toasted, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Spread a layer of peanut butter on each bread slice, followed by a slice of banana. Add two slices of bacon on top of the banana, and finish with the second bread slice.
Tips for Assembling the Perfect Sandwich
- Use a serrated knife to slice the banana, as this will help prevent it from tearing.
- Apply gentle pressure when assembling the sandwich, as you don’t want to squish the banana or peanut butter.
- Use a cutting board to assemble the sandwich, as this will help prevent the bread from getting crushed.
Serving and Enjoying the Peanut Butter, Banana, and Bacon Sandwich
The Peanut Butter, Banana, and Bacon Sandwich is best served immediately, while the bacon is still crispy and the bread is still warm. You can serve it on its own or paired with a side of chips or a salad.
Variations and Twists
While the classic recipe is a must-try, you can also experiment with different variations and twists. Here are a few ideas:
- Add some honey: Drizzle a little honey on top of the peanut butter for a touch of sweetness.
- Use different types of bread: Try using whole wheat bread or sourdough bread for a different flavor profile.
- Add some spice: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes on top of the bacon for an extra kick.
Conclusion
The Peanut Butter, Banana, and Bacon Sandwich is a culinary icon that’s steeped in history and nostalgia. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a sandwich that’s worthy of the King himself. Whether you’re a fan of Elvis or just looking for a new recipe to try, this sandwich is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
What is Elvis’ favorite sandwich?
Elvis’ favorite sandwich is the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich. This unique combination of ingredients may seem unusual, but it was a staple in Elvis’ diet and a favorite among his friends and family. The sandwich typically consists of toasted bread, peanut butter, sliced bananas, and crispy bacon.
The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the crunchy texture of the bacon and the smoothness of the peanut butter, made this sandwich a delight for Elvis. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether you’re a fan of Elvis or just looking to try something new, this sandwich is definitely worth a try.
What type of bread is best for the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich?
The type of bread used for the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich is crucial in bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients. Elvis was known to use white bread, specifically Wonder Bread, for his favorite sandwich. However, you can also use other types of bread such as whole wheat or sourdough.
The key is to use a bread that is soft and lightly toasted, as this will help to bring out the flavors of the peanut butter and bananas. Avoid using a bread that is too dense or heavy, as this can overpower the other ingredients. You can also try using a bread with a slightly sweet flavor, such as brioche or challah, to complement the bananas.
How do I cook the bacon for the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich?
Cooking the bacon is an essential step in making the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich. Elvis liked his bacon crispy, so it’s best to cook it in a pan until it reaches a golden brown color. You can also bake the bacon in the oven if you prefer a crisper texture.
To cook the bacon, simply place it in a pan over medium heat and cook until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Remove the bacon from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. You can also cook the bacon in advance and store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to assemble the sandwich.
Can I use natural peanut butter for the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter for the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich. In fact, natural peanut butter is a great option if you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional peanut butter. Natural peanut butter typically has fewer ingredients and less added sugar than traditional peanut butter.
However, keep in mind that natural peanut butter can be quite oily, so you may need to stir it well before using it. You can also try using a combination of natural peanut butter and honey or maple syrup to add a touch of sweetness to the sandwich.
How do I assemble the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich?
Assembling the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients. Start by toasting the bread until it’s lightly browned. Then, spread a layer of peanut butter on each slice of bread. Next, slice the bananas and place them on top of the peanut butter.
Finally, add a few slices of crispy bacon on top of the bananas and place the other slice of bread on top. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or honey on top of the sandwich for extra flavor. Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately.
Can I make the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich ahead of time?
While it’s best to assemble the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich just before serving, you can make some of the components ahead of time. For example, you can cook the bacon and store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to assemble the sandwich.
You can also slice the bananas and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to use them. However, it’s best to toast the bread and assemble the sandwich just before serving, as this will help to ensure that the bread stays fresh and the flavors stay vibrant.
Is the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich a healthy option?
While the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal, it’s not necessarily the healthiest option. The sandwich is high in calories and fat, thanks to the peanut butter and bacon. However, it’s also a good source of protein and fiber, thanks to the bananas and whole wheat bread.
To make the sandwich healthier, you can try using natural peanut butter and whole wheat bread, and reducing the amount of bacon used. You can also add some sliced apples or honey to the sandwich for extra flavor and nutrition. Overall, the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich is a treat that should be enjoyed in moderation.