Imagine a breakfast sandwich that’s not just good, but extraordinary, and all for less than $2 per serving. Here’s how to make it happen.
Key Takeaway: Create a gourmet breakfast sandwich without breaking the bank by making smart ingredient choices and utilizing homemade bread.
Introduction
Sunday mornings are made for indulging in a delicious breakfast, but why settle for an expensive café sandwich when you can create something fancier at home for a fraction of the cost? Let’s explore how to craft a gourmet breakfast sandwich under $2.
Ingredients and Cost Breakdown
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need and how much they cost:
Ingredient | Quantity | Cost (approx.) |
---|---|---|
Ciabatta Bread | Homemade | <$1 |
Eggs | 1 per sandwich | $0.20 |
Mortadella | 2 slices | $0.30 |
Cheddar Cheese | 1 slice | $0.20 |
Gouda Cheese | 1 slice | $0.20 |
Tomato | 1 large | $0.50 |
Spicy Mayo | Homemade | <$0.20 |
Basil Leaves | Few leaves | <$0.10 |
Vegetable Oil | For cooking | <$0.10 |
Total Cost per Sandwich | <$2.00 |
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Make Ciabatta Bread (Poolish Method)
- Prep Time: 15 mins (active), 14-18 hours (inactive)
- Cost: <$1 for multiple servings
- Prepare Poolish:
- Mix 220g bread flour, 220g water, and a scant ¼ tsp of instant yeast. Let sit covered at room temperature overnight.
- Make Dough:
- Combine 375g bread flour, 12g fine sea salt, poolish, ½ tsp instant yeast, and 257g water in a mixer. Mix until dough forms.
- First Rise:
- Let dough rise in a bowl covered with plastic wrap for 1 hour.
- Stretch and Fold:
- Perform three sets of stretch and fold every 25 minutes over 1 hour.
- Shape and Bake:
- Shape dough into ciabatta loaves, let rest, then bake at 450°F for 15-20 minutes.
2. Prepare Ingredients
- Tomatoes: Slice and lightly sear in a pan with oil until lightly charred.
- Mortadella: Sear in a hot pan for 1 minute per side until golden.
- Spicy Mayo: Mix ½ cup mayo, 2 tbsp sriracha, 3 cloves grated garlic, salt, and lemon juice.
3. Assemble the Sandwich
- Toast Ciabatta:
- Toast homemade ciabatta until golden.
- Add Spicy Mayo:
- Spread a generous layer of spicy mayo on both halves of the ciabatta.
- Layer Cheese and Tomato:
- On the bottom half, add a slice each of cheddar and gouda cheese, followed by seared tomato slices.
- Add Mortadella and Fried Egg:
- Layer seared mortadella slices and top with a fried egg.
- Finish with Basil:
- Scatter fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of freshness.
- Close and Enjoy:
- Place the top half of the ciabatta bun and press gently to secure all layers.
Conclusion
This gourmet breakfast sandwich not only tastes amazing but proves that homemade can be cheaper and more satisfying than store-bought alternatives. By making your own ciabatta and choosing cost-effective ingredients like mortadella and homemade mayo, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast without overspending.
So next Sunday, treat yourself and your family to a gourmet breakfast experience without the hefty price tag. Your taste buds—and your wallet—will thank you!