Reviving the $5 Footlong: Affordable Homemade Sub Sandwich

Key Takeaway: Discover how to make a delicious footlong sub sandwich at home on a budget, featuring homemade bread and deli-style chicken, topped with fresh veggies and dressing.

Remember the $5 Footlong craze? Now you can enjoy a budget-friendly version right from your kitchen. Learn how to craft this iconic sandwich with simple ingredients and basic cooking tools.

Crafting the Perfect Footlong Sub

Ingredients You’ll Need

Bread:

• 1 cup (250g) milk, warmed to 95°F (35°C)
• 2.5 tbsp (30g) granulated sugar
• 2.5 tsp (11g) instant yeast
• 3 cups (450g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp (3g) fine sea salt
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, softened
• Optional: Sesame seeds and grated cheese for topping

Deli-Style Chicken:

• 3 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts (about 2 lbs or 900g)
• 1 tsp (0.5g) finely chopped fresh rosemary
• 2 tsp (7g) garlic powder
• 1 tsp (2g) brown sugar
• 1.5 tbsp (8g) kosher salt

Toppings:

• Fresh tomatoes, sliced and seasoned with salt
• Thinly sliced red onion, rinsed and drained
• Iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced and dressed
• 2 tbsp (9g) olive oil
• 4 tbsp (24g) red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Making Bread

• Mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast until dissolved.
• In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
• Add yeast mixture and beaten eggs to the flour mixture.
• Knead until dough is smooth, then add softened butter and knead until incorporated.
• Let dough rise for 1 hour at room temperature or overnight in the fridge.
• Divide dough into 6 pieces, shape into logs, and proof for 30 minutes.
• Brush with egg wash, optionally top with sesame seeds and cheese, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 17-20 minutes until golden brown.

2. Preparing Deli-Style Chicken

• Mix rosemary, garlic powder, brown sugar, and salt.
• Season chicken breasts with this mixture, roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Chill completely before slicing thinly.

3. Assembling the Sub

• Slice the footlong bread in half lengthwise.
• Spread mayonnaise generously on both halves.
• Layer with provolone cheese, sliced deli-style chicken, seasoned tomatoes, red onions, and dressed iceberg lettuce.
• Close the sandwich and slice into portions.

Conclusion: A Taste of Affordable Deli Experience

By making your own footlong sub at home, you not only save money but also customize it to your liking. The homemade bread adds a delicious touch, while the deli-style chicken ensures a savory and satisfying bite.

Enjoy the simplicity of creating a classic deli sandwich without the expense. Experiment with different toppings and flavors to suit your preferences. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, this budget-friendly recipe promises to deliver freshness and flavor in every bite.

Elevate your sandwich game with this easy-to-follow recipe. Embrace the joy of homemade meals that are both economical and delicious. Treat yourself to the taste of a classic sub sandwich, reinvented for your kitchen and your wallet.

This recipe showcases how simple ingredients and basic techniques can result in a memorable culinary experience. Dive into the world of homemade footlong subs and savor the satisfaction of creating something delicious and affordable at home.