Reviving the $5 Footlong: Affordable Homemade Sub Sandwich

1000 meal prep recepies - with breakdown of protein cost calories

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.

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