What is a Santa Fe sandwich?
The Santa Fe sandwich is a popular sandwich with Southwestern roots that you can find in restaurants and cafes across the country.
But what exactly is a Santa Fe sandwich? While there are plenty of variations, most have a few key ingredients in common. These sandwiches usually include grilled chicken or turkey, creamy avocado, roasted peppers, cheese, and a spicy sauce to kick things up a notch.
In this article, we’ll explore the Santa Fe sandwich’s history, dive into its key ingredients, explore some delicious variations, and show you how to make your own perfect version at home.
The history and origins of the Santa Fe sandwich
The Santa Fe sandwich, as the name suggests, is rooted in the culinary traditions of the Southwest. It showcases the region’s unique ingredients and flavors.
It’s difficult to trace the exact origin of the Santa Fe sandwich. Was it invented by a restaurant chain looking for a signature item? Did a local deli owner create it? Or was it the inspired creation of an individual home cook?
As the sandwich has spread beyond Santa Fe and the Southwest, it has evolved. Chefs and home cooks have put their own spin on it. Some versions are spicier than others. Some use different types of cheese or bread. But the core ingredients and Southwestern influence remains.
Key Ingredients: A Deeper Dive
Let’s break down the essential components that make a Santa Fe sandwich truly sing.
The Protein: Grilled Chicken or Turkey
Grilled chicken or turkey is the star of the show, providing a lean and flavorful protein base. The best sandwiches start with well-seasoned meat. Marinating the chicken or turkey beforehand amps up the flavor even more. Think about Southwestern spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic.
Got dietary restrictions? No problem! Black beans or grilled halloumi cheese make fantastic vegetarian or vegan alternatives.
The Southwestern Flair: Roasted Peppers
Roasted peppers are crucial for that smoky-sweet Southwestern vibe. Poblano and Anaheim peppers are classic choices. Roasting them brings out their natural sugars and adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
Roasting peppers at home is easier than you think! You can broil them, grill them, or even char them directly over a gas stovetop flame. Just remember to peel off the blackened skin afterward.
Creamy Goodness: Avocado
Avocado lends a luxurious creaminess to the Santa Fe sandwich. Whether you use sliced ripe avocado or a simple guacamole spread is up to you. Either way, you’re adding healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to your meal.
The Cheese Factor
Cheese is another place where you can customize your sandwich. Pepper jack adds a kick, while Monterey jack is mild and melty. Cheddar and provolone are also solid choices, each offering a unique flavor profile that complements the other ingredients.
SAUCE IT UP: THE SPICY ELEMENT
Let’s be honest, the spice is what makes a Santa Fe sandwich a Santa Fe sandwich. You can’t skimp on the sauce!
Common Sauce Variations
While there are many variations, the most common spicy sauces you’ll find on a Santa Fe sandwich are chipotle mayo, sriracha mayo, or a Southwestern aioli. The level of heat can vary wildly. So, how do you adjust the spice to your liking? Experiment with different types of chili peppers or hot sauces until you find the perfect balance.
Recipe for a Simple Chipotle Mayo
Want to whip up a quick and easy chipotle mayo at home? Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
- Mayonnaise
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (start small and add more to taste!)
- A squeeze of lime juice
Mix all ingredients together and adjust to taste. For a unique twist, try adding a clove of minced garlic, some chopped cilantro, or other Southwestern seasonings. The possibilities are endless!
Building the Perfect Santa Fe Sandwich: Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to make the ultimate Santa Fe sandwich? Here’s how:
- Ingredient Preparation: The first step is to prep all your ingredients. Grill your chicken or turkey until it’s cooked through and slightly charred. Roast those poblano peppers until the skins are blackened and blistered, then peel and slice them. Whip up that amazing sauce we talked about earlier. And don’t forget to slice up a perfectly ripe avocado.
- Bread Selection: The right bread can make or break a sandwich. For a Santa Fe, you want something sturdy enough to hold all those delicious fillings. Sourdough, ciabatta, or even a toasted brioche bun all work great.
- Assembly Instructions: This is where the magic happens. Start by slathering some of that sauce on both the top and bottom buns. Then, layer your ingredients strategically. Think: a base of sauce, then chicken or turkey, roasted peppers, avocado slices, and maybe even a sprinkle of cheese if you’re feeling fancy. End with a top bun that has sauce on it.
- Grilling or Pressing the Sandwich (Optional): Want to take your Santa Fe sandwich to the next level? Throw it in a panini press or on a grill for a few minutes. This will warm everything through, melt any cheese you’ve added, and give the bread those beautiful grill marks. For perfect grill marks, make sure your grill or press is nice and hot.
Enjoy!
Variations and Adaptations
The Santa Fe sandwich is delicious as is, but you can easily change it to fit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
- Vegetarian Santa Fe Sandwich: Instead of meat, use black beans, grilled veggies, or halloumi cheese.
- Vegan Santa Fe Sandwich: Use plant-based mayo and a vegan cheese alternative.
- Santa Fe Wrap or Salad: Skip the bread and put all the ingredients into a wrap or on top of lettuce.
- Santa Fe Burger: Use the same ingredients to create a delicious burger.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the healthiest chicken sandwich at Chick-fil-A?
If you’re looking for a relatively healthier chicken sandwich at Chick-fil-A, the Grilled Chicken Sandwich is generally considered the best option. It’s lower in calories and fat compared to the fried options, ditching the breading and frying process. Of course, “healthy” is relative when we’re talking fast food!
What makes food Santa Fe style?
Santa Fe-style cuisine typically incorporates flavors and ingredients common to the Southwestern United States, specifically New Mexico. Think roasted green chiles (a MUST!), corn, black beans, and often a touch of spice. It’s a vibrant and flavorful style of cooking, often featuring earthy and smoky notes.
What type of cheese is best for a Santa Fe sandwich?
For a Santa Fe sandwich, you want a cheese that melts well and complements the Southwestern flavors. Monterey Jack is a classic choice, offering a mild and creamy flavor. Pepper Jack is another great option if you want to add a little extra kick. Queso quesadilla cheese is also a winner.
What is a Santa Fe melt?
A Santa Fe melt is essentially a grilled sandwich that embraces those Southwestern flavors. Imagine grilled chicken or turkey, roasted green chiles, black beans, corn, and a melty cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, all nestled between two slices of grilled bread. It’s a warm, comforting, and flavorful meal!
Summary
The Santa Fe sandwich is a popular choice because of its unique flavor combinations, Southwestern influences, and versatility. It’s also easy to customize so you can adapt it to your own tastes. Give the recipe a try and see what variations you can come up with!