Revamping Your Leftover Turkey Game
As the Thanksgiving feast winds down and the kitchen counters are laden with leftovers, the quest for delicious and creative recipes begins. One standout favorite is the Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Sandwich. Not only does this delightful sandwich utilize those extra turkey slices, but it also incorporates tangy cranberry sauce, turning holiday remnants into a culinary sensation.
What Makes This Sandwich Special?
This sandwich recipe beautifully marries the savory taste of turkey with the sweetness of cranberry, all while being a healthier option. The original recipe leans towards lighter living by replacing traditional ingredients like mayo and cheese with hummus. Hummus brings a creamy component to the sandwich while also packing a protein punch, making it suitable for those who are dairy-free or looking for a lower-calorie option.
Easy Steps to Create a Flavorful Creation
To make your tasty Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Sandwich, you’ll need:
- 2 slices of coarse grain bakery bread
- ¼ cup of hummus
- 2 leaves of bibb or Boston lettuce
- 2-3 slices of purple onion
- 2-3 slices of leftover turkey (¼ inch thick)
- ¼ cup of cranberry sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Start by spreading hummus on both slices of bread. Then, layer the lettuce, onion, turkey, cranberry sauce, and additional lettuce. Season to taste with salt and pepper before adding the top slice of bread, hummus side down. For a gourmet twist, consider grilling the sandwich, enhancing the flavor and providing a delightful crunch to the bread.
The Perfection of the Grilled Version
For those yearning for a heartier experience, the grilled Turkey Cranberry Sandwich is a must-try. Swap out hummus for warm, melted cheddar cheese, turning it into a warm, savory delight. The key is using quality bread, ideally one that can hold the sandwich’s filling together, like brioche or homemade whole grain. Here’s how to make the grilled variation:
- Lay sharp cheddar cheese between the slices of buttery bread, ensuring a gooey filling.
- Spread cranberry sauce on one side of the cheese before layering on the turkey.
- Cook in a non-stick skillet until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is perfectly melted.
This grilled sandwich isn’t just a meal but an experience—a warm, comforting taste of the holidays that brings back fond memories while satisfying your taste buds.
A Personal Story: Tradition Meets Innovation
As Alice Currah recalls from her youth, her time spent in her uncle's deli paved the way for her love of the turkey cranberry sandwich. Every holiday season, families across the nation share a similar tradition, using leftover turkey as a canvas for creating memories. The flavor combinations evolve, but the heart remains the same: good food shared with loved ones.
Your Turn to Experiment!
The beauty of the Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Sandwich lies in its flexibility. Whether sticking to the classic or trying a modern twist with hummus or grilled cheese, everyone can enjoy this creative use of leftovers. Next holiday season, take a moment to craft your version of this sandwich and keep the tradition alive while forging new memories!
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