Hint: it’s not just about the filling! We’ve got all the inspo you need for how to make a sandwich that’s tasty and seriously satisfying, every single time.
A lunchtime essential across the country, sandwiches can be a thing of so much joy. But there’s a difference between a good sandwich and a great one. Get it right every time with our 5 top tips for how to make a sandwich – perfect for lunch al-desko, grub on the go, picnics and beyond!
Get bready
All great sandwiches start with the perfect vehicle, aka your choice of bread or bun. There are so many options here, and while of course it’s down to personal preference, there are a few things to consider.
First, make sure your bread is fresh, unless you’re going to toast it – it doesn’t have to be straight out of the oven, but stale bread is a no-no! Second, think about contrasting textures – soft sub rolls work well with crisp fillings like fish fingers, while toasted wholemeal or white bloomer will keep melty cheese in check. Finally, get the right ratio of bread to filling. For the perfect bite, we reckon the bread shouldn’t make up any more than 50% of your sandwich.
Waterproof it
Bear with us, but a good waterproof layer is key to a strong sandwich and – ultimately – avoiding any unwanted sogginess. Classic choices like butter or mayo will ensure that any moist filling ingredients won’t soak all the way through to your bread. Try to spread your waterproof layer right to the edges and corners, and have fun with it – there are lots of tasty things you could try!
Fill it up
Now it’s time to fill that beautiful bread with the most delicious ingredients. The world is your oyster here, and you’ll probably know your favourite fillings already.
Our top tips? Try to buy the best-quality ingredients you can. For meat and fish, that means choosing free-range, higher-welfare and sustainably sourced options where possible, and for veg, keeping it as fresh and seasonal as you can. Remember, leftovers also make incredible sandwiches – think roast meats like turkey, or even leftover mash and veg!
If you’re going for denser ingredients like roast meats or cheese, slice them nice and finely so they’re easier to bite through – no one wants to pull out half the filling in their first mouthful!
And finally, arrange your fillings evenly across your sarnie, and try not to overfill it.
Select your sauce(s)
Now the fun can really start. Create the perfect succulent mouthful with a sauce that brings out the best in your filling. Here are some of our favourites:
- Brown sauce, ketchup, mustard and chilli sauce all pair well with bacon sarnies – make like Jamie’s friend Pete Begg and combine your sauces for a wild flavour ride!
- Fiery horseradish is really good flavour friends with a Steak sarnie.
- Homemade Caesar mayo is the star in this Ultimate chicken sandwich.
- Mustard just can’t be beaten with Homemade salt beef.
- Homemade tartare sauce is an epic addition to tasty fish baps.
- Tapenade and pesto go nicely with roasted veggies and cheese. We’ve paired olive tapenade with Manchego-stuffed peppers in this Sausage sandwich, and green pesto with griddled veg and mozzarella for this epic Steak sandwich.
- Piccalilli, Branston pickle and mango chutney add an edge to cheesy toasties like this hot cross bun number.
- Good old gravy takes this Mega meatball sub from simple to sensational.
The sauce also has a serious job to do, as it helps hold the sandwich together. So make sure you’ve got enough of it!
Top of the toppings
Last but not least, toppings! Here’s your chance to inject extra flavour and texture into your sandwich. Again, it’s all about the contrast. Bombay mix adds perfect crunch to an Indian-style chip butty, while quick-pickled cucumber elevates this Quesadilla toastie. Why not raid the store cupboard or fridge for other toppings and sprinkles that’ll make your sarnie sing? Jarred jalapeños, crispy fried onions or even a few cheeky crisps will work a treat!
Most importantly, have fun with your sandwich. There’s no right or wrong, so go forth and experiment!
Hungry for more? Explore our favourite sandwiches, wraps and toasties.
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