Open-faced hot turkey sandwiches are a staple of American comfort food, and for good reason. They’re easy to make, delicious, and can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a hearty dinner, an open-faced hot turkey sandwich is a great option. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of open-faced hot turkey sandwiches, the benefits of making them, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect open-faced hot turkey sandwich.
A Brief History of Open-Faced Hot Turkey Sandwiches
Open-faced hot turkey sandwiches have a long history that dates back to the early 20th century. They were originally served at diners and restaurants as a way to use up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving and other holidays. The sandwich typically consisted of sliced turkey, gravy, and bread, and was served open-faced, meaning that the bread was toasted and the turkey and gravy were piled on top.
Over time, open-faced hot turkey sandwiches became a staple of American comfort food, and their popularity spread throughout the country. Today, they’re a favorite at diners, restaurants, and homes across the United States.
The Benefits of Making Open-Faced Hot Turkey Sandwiches
There are many benefits to making open-faced hot turkey sandwiches. Here are a few:
- Easy to make: Open-faced hot turkey sandwiches are incredibly easy to make. All you need is some sliced turkey, bread, gravy, and a few toppings, and you’re good to go.
- Customizable: One of the best things about open-faced hot turkey sandwiches is that they can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you like your turkey with gravy, cheese, or veggies, you can add your favorite toppings to make the perfect sandwich.
- Affordable: Open-faced hot turkey sandwiches are also very affordable. You can make a delicious sandwich for just a few dollars, making it a great option for families or individuals on a budget.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
Before we dive into the instructions, let’s take a look at the ingredients and equipment you’ll need to make an open-faced hot turkey sandwich.
- 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
- 2-3 slices of turkey breast
- 1/4 cup of gravy
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: cheese, veggies, cranberry sauce
Equipment needed:
- Toaster or toaster oven
- Saucepan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spoon
Choosing the Right Bread
The bread you choose is crucial to making a great open-faced hot turkey sandwich. Here are a few options:
- White bread: White bread is a classic choice for open-faced hot turkey sandwiches. It’s soft, fluffy, and pairs well with the turkey and gravy.
- Whole wheat bread: Whole wheat bread is a healthier option that’s also delicious. It has a nuttier flavor than white bread and pairs well with the turkey and veggies.
- Sourdough bread: Sourdough bread is a great option if you want a more rustic, tangy flavor. It pairs well with the turkey and gravy, and adds a nice depth to the sandwich.
Choosing the Right Turkey
The turkey you choose is also important. Here are a few options:
- Turkey breast: Turkey breast is the most common choice for open-faced hot turkey sandwiches. It’s lean, tender, and pairs well with the gravy and toppings.
- Turkey thigh: Turkey thigh is a darker meat that’s also delicious. It’s got a richer flavor than turkey breast and pairs well with the gravy and veggies.
Instructions
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients and equipment needed, let’s dive into the instructions.
Step 1: Toast the Bread
The first step is to toast the bread. You can use a toaster or toaster oven to toast the bread. If you’re using a toaster, simply place the bread in the toaster and toast until it’s lightly browned. If you’re using a toaster oven, place the bread on the oven rack and toast at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Step 2: Prepare the Turkey
The next step is to prepare the turkey. Slice the turkey breast or thigh into thin slices. You’ll need 2-3 slices per sandwich.
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy
The next step is to prepare the gravy. You can use store-bought gravy or make your own. If you’re using store-bought gravy, simply heat it up in a saucepan over medium heat. If you’re making your own gravy, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is lightly browned. Slowly add 1 cup of chicken broth, whisking constantly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
The final step is to assemble the sandwich. Place the toasted bread on a plate or cutting board. Add 2-3 slices of turkey on top of the bread. Spoon the gravy over the turkey, making sure to cover the entire surface. Add any desired toppings, such as cheese, veggies, or cranberry sauce.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the perfect open-faced hot turkey sandwich:
- Add some cheese: Cheese is a great addition to open-faced hot turkey sandwiches. Try using cheddar, Swiss, or American cheese.
- Add some veggies: Veggies are a great way to add some extra flavor and nutrition to your sandwich. Try using lettuce, tomato, or avocado.
- Use different types of bread: As we mentioned earlier, there are many different types of bread you can use for open-faced hot turkey sandwiches. Try using sourdough, rye, or ciabatta bread for a different flavor.
- Use different types of gravy: There are many different types of gravy you can use for open-faced hot turkey sandwiches. Try using beef gravy, mushroom gravy, or herb gravy for a different flavor.
Conclusion
Open-faced hot turkey sandwiches are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich history, customizable ingredients, and affordable price, it’s no wonder they’re a staple of American comfort food. By following the instructions and tips outlined in this article, you can make the perfect open-faced hot turkey sandwich that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What is an open-faced hot turkey sandwich?
An open-faced hot turkey sandwich is a type of sandwich that consists of sliced turkey, served hot and placed on top of toasted bread, often with various toppings such as gravy, cheese, and vegetables. Unlike traditional sandwiches, open-faced hot turkey sandwiches do not have a top slice of bread, allowing the flavors and textures of the ingredients to shine through.
The beauty of open-faced hot turkey sandwiches lies in their simplicity and versatility. They can be made with a variety of ingredients, from classic combinations like turkey and gravy to more adventurous options like avocado and bacon. Whether you’re looking for a comforting, homestyle meal or a quick and easy snack, open-faced hot turkey sandwiches are a great option.
What type of bread is best for open-faced hot turkey sandwiches?
When it comes to choosing the right bread for open-faced hot turkey sandwiches, there are several options to consider. White bread, whole wheat bread, and sourdough bread are all popular choices, as they provide a sturdy base for the sandwich without overpowering the other ingredients. You can also use artisanal breads, such as baguette or ciabatta, for a more rustic and textured sandwich.
Regardless of the type of bread you choose, it’s essential to toast it before assembling the sandwich. Toasting the bread helps to bring out its natural flavors and textures, and provides a crispy base for the sandwich. You can toast the bread in a toaster or under the broiler for a few minutes, until it’s lightly browned and crispy.
How do I cook the turkey for open-faced hot turkey sandwiches?
There are several ways to cook the turkey for open-faced hot turkey sandwiches, depending on your personal preferences and the level of convenience you’re looking for. One option is to use leftover roasted turkey, which can be sliced thinly and served hot. You can also use deli turkey or turkey breast, which can be sliced and heated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
If you want to cook the turkey from scratch, you can roast a whole turkey or turkey breast in the oven, or cook sliced turkey in a skillet on the stovetop. Regardless of the cooking method, it’s essential to cook the turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
What are some popular toppings for open-faced hot turkey sandwiches?
One of the best things about open-faced hot turkey sandwiches is the variety of toppings you can use. Some popular options include gravy, cheese, bacon, avocado, and vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and onion. You can also use condiments like mayonnaise or mustard to add extra flavor to the sandwich.
The key to choosing the right toppings is to balance flavors and textures. For example, if you’re using a rich and savory gravy, you may want to balance it out with some crunchy vegetables or crispy bacon. You can also experiment with different combinations of toppings to find your favorite.
Can I make open-faced hot turkey sandwiches ahead of time?
While open-faced hot turkey sandwiches are best served hot, you can make some of the components ahead of time to save time and effort. For example, you can cook the turkey and toast the bread in advance, then assemble the sandwich just before serving. You can also prepare the toppings, such as slicing the vegetables or cooking the bacon, ahead of time.
However, it’s best to assemble the sandwich just before serving, as the bread can become soggy if it’s exposed to the toppings for too long. You can also keep the sandwich warm in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F or 90°C) for a few minutes before serving.
How do I keep open-faced hot turkey sandwiches warm and toasty?
To keep open-faced hot turkey sandwiches warm and toasty, you can use a few different techniques. One option is to place the sandwich under the broiler for a few seconds, until the bread is lightly toasted and the toppings are heated through. You can also use a toaster oven or conventional oven to keep the sandwich warm, set to a low temperature (around 200°F or 90°C).
Another option is to use a warming tray or chafing dish, which can be set to a low temperature to keep the sandwich warm for a longer period. You can also use a thermos or insulated container to keep the sandwich warm, especially if you’re serving it at a buffet or outdoor event.
Can I customize open-faced hot turkey sandwiches to suit my dietary needs?
Yes, open-faced hot turkey sandwiches can be easily customized to suit your dietary needs. For example, if you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free bread or substitute the bread with a gluten-free alternative like lettuce or portobello mushrooms. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you can substitute the turkey with a plant-based protein source like tofu or tempeh.
You can also customize the toppings to suit your dietary needs, such as using low-fat cheese or skipping the bacon. Additionally, you can use herbs and spices to add flavor to the sandwich without adding extra salt or sugar. The key is to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to find a combination that works for you.