Introduction: What is a Hot Brown Sandwich?
The Hot Brown Sandwich is a famous open-faced sandwich that originated in Louisville, Kentucky. It is made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce, which is a cheesy white sauce. The sandwich is then broiled until it is hot and bubbly, and served on slices of bread.
The Hot Brown Sandwich is a popular dish in Louisville, but it has also gained popularity in other parts of the United States. It is often served in restaurants and cafes, and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
History of the Hot Brown Sandwich
The Hot Brown Sandwich was created in the 1920s by the chef of the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. The hotel was a popular destination for travelers, and the chef wanted to create a new dish that would be unique to the hotel.
The chef, Fred K. Schmidt, came up with the idea for the Hot Brown Sandwich after a night of dancing at the hotel’s ballroom. He wanted to create a dish that would be hearty enough to satisfy the guests after a night of dancing, but also elegant enough to be served in the hotel’s upscale dining room.
Ingredients used in a Hot Brown Sandwich
The Hot Brown Sandwich is made with several ingredients, including:
- Turkey: The sandwich is traditionally made with roasted turkey.
- Bacon: The bacon adds a salty, smoky flavor to the sandwich.
- Mornay sauce: This is a cheesy white sauce that is made with milk, butter, flour, and grated cheese.
- Bread: The sandwich is served on slices of bread, typically white bread.
- Tomatoes: Sliced tomatoes are often added to the sandwich for a fresh, juicy flavor.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese is often sprinkled on top of the sandwich for added flavor.
How to prepare a Hot Brown Sandwich
To prepare a Hot Brown Sandwich, follow these steps:
- Preheat the broiler.
- Toast two slices of bread.
- Place the toast in the bottom of an oven-safe dish.
- Top the toast with slices of turkey and bacon.
- Pour Mornay sauce over the turkey and bacon.
- Broil the sandwich until the Mornay sauce is hot and bubbly.
- Top the sandwich with sliced tomatoes and grated Parmesan cheese.
Why is the Hot Brown Sandwich famous in Louisville?
The origin of the Hot Brown Sandwich
The Hot Brown Sandwich was created at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky in the 1920s. The hotel was a popular destination for travelers, and the chef wanted to create a new dish that would be unique to the hotel.
The popularity of the Hot Brown Sandwich
The Hot Brown Sandwich quickly became a favorite among hotel guests, and it soon gained popularity in Louisville and other parts of the United States. Today, it is a beloved local dish that is served in restaurants and cafes throughout the city.
Different variations of the Hot Brown Sandwich
While the traditional Hot Brown Sandwich is made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce, there are many variations of the dish. Some restaurants add different types of cheese to the Mornay sauce, while others add vegetables like spinach or roasted red peppers.
Where to find the best Hot Brown Sandwich in Louisville
There are many restaurants in Louisville that serve the Hot Brown Sandwich, but some of the most popular include the Brown Hotel, The Cafe, and The Silver Dollar.
How to pair a Hot Brown Sandwich with other dishes
The Hot Brown Sandwich is a rich and flavorful dish, so it pairs well with light and fresh sides like salads or fruit. Some restaurants also serve the sandwich with potato chips or fries for a more indulgent meal.
Nutritional value of a Hot Brown Sandwich
The Hot Brown Sandwich is a high-calorie dish that is not particularly nutritious. One sandwich can contain over 1,000 calories and 50 grams of fat. However, it can be enjoyed as an occasional treat or shared with a friend.
Conclusion: The enduring appeal of the Hot Brown Sandwich
The Hot Brown Sandwich is a beloved dish in Louisville, Kentucky and beyond. Its rich and hearty flavors make it a satisfying meal, while its elegant presentation makes it a favorite among foodies and tourists. Whether enjoyed at the historic Brown Hotel or at a local cafe, the Hot Brown Sandwich is a true culinary icon.
