Introduction
The Herb Butter Turkey & Gravy Sandwich is a delectable way to transform leftover turkey into a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This sandwich combines the rich flavors of herb-infused butter, tender turkey, and savory gravy, all nestled between slices of crusty rustic bread. Whether you’re using Thanksgiving leftovers or a store-bought rotisserie turkey, this recipe will elevate your sandwich game and delight your taste buds. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, preparation steps, and the culinary magic behind this comforting dish.
Recipe Overview
– Total Time: 30 minutes
– Servings: 4
– Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
– 1 cup cooked turkey, sliced
– 4 tablespoons herb butter (see instructions below)
– 1 cup gravy (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 slices rustic bread (sourdough or ciabatta)
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Begin by preparing the herb butter. In a bowl, mix softened butter with finely chopped fresh herbs, garlic powder, and lemon zest until well combined. Set aside.
2. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Spread a generous amount of herb butter on one side of each slice of rustic bread.
4. Place two slices of bread, butter side down, in the skillet. Layer half of the sliced turkey on each.
5. Spoon a portion of gravy over the turkey on each sandwich.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, butter side up.
7. Grill each sandwich for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Carefully flip and grill the other side until golden and crispy.
8. Once done, remove from the skillet and cut the sandwiches in half. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Understanding the Ingredients
The Star of the Show: Herb Butter
– Herb butter is a flavorful compound butter that adds richness and depth to your sandwich.
– Fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, and thyme contribute vibrant flavors and aromas.
– Garlic powder and lemon zest enhance the overall taste, making each bite a culinary delight.
The Perfect Bread for Your Sandwich
– Consider using sourdough or ciabatta for their crusty texture and flavor.
– Rustic bread enhances the sandwich experience by providing a sturdy base that holds up to fillings.
– When selecting bread, look for options with a good crust for grilling, ensuring a satisfying crunch.
Turkey: The Heart of the Sandwich
– You can use leftover turkey from holidays or a store-bought rotisserie for convenience.
– Slice the turkey thinly to ensure it’s easy to layer and bite into.
– The quality of the turkey is crucial; choose well-cooked, flavorful options for the best results.
Creating the Gravy
– You can use either homemade gravy or store-bought, depending on your time and preference.
– Gravy complements the flavors of the turkey and herb butter, adding moisture and richness.
– Consider variations in gravy, such as mushroom or onion gravy, to elevate the dish further.
Prepping Your Skillet or Griddle
To start, preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat. This ensures that your sandwich will be perfectly toasted and heated through without burning. A properly heated cooking surface allows for even cooking, resulting in a crispy outside and a warm, delicious inside.
Spreading the Herb Butter
For optimal flavor, evenly spread herb butter on the exterior of the bread slices. Use a butter knife or a spatula to apply a generous layer, ensuring that every bit of the surface is covered. This not only enhances the taste but also aids in achieving a golden, crispy crust when grilled.
Alternative Toasting Methods
If you don’t have a skillet or griddle available, consider using an oven or toaster oven. Simply place the buttered bread on a baking sheet and toast it under the broiler for a few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Another option is to use a panini press, which can effectively grill the sandwich while adding attractive grill marks.
Assembling the Perfect Sandwich
Layering Techniques
When constructing your sandwich, start with a slice of the buttered bread as your base. Layer the turkey evenly, followed by any optional ingredients like cheese or cranberry sauce. Consider adding a layer of fresh greens or sautéed onions for added texture and flavor.
Incorporating Optional Ingredients
Cranberry sauce can elevate your sandwich by adding a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory turkey and herb butter. Spread a thin layer on one slice of bread or mix it directly with the turkey for an even distribution of flavors.
Achieving Flavor Balance
To create a well-rounded sandwich, balance savory, sweet, and herbaceous notes. For example, if you include cranberry sauce, consider adding a sprinkle of salt or a dash of black pepper to enhance the overall taste profile.
Grilling the Sandwich to Perfection
Grilling Techniques
When grilling, place the sandwich in the preheated skillet and press down gently with a spatula. This helps create contact with the heat and ensures even grilling. Flip the sandwich carefully after a few minutes, watching for a golden brown color to avoid burning.
Monitoring Cooking Time
Keep a close eye on your sandwich while it cooks. The ideal grilling time is usually around 4-5 minutes per side but can vary based on your stove’s heat. Adjust as needed to maintain the perfect balance of crispiness without overcooking the bread.
Enhancing with Melted Cheese
If you choose to add cheese, place it on top of the turkey before closing the sandwich. The cheese will melt beautifully as the sandwich grills, adding a creamy texture that complements the turkey and herb butter flawlessly.
Heating the Gravy
Best Practices for Warming Gravy
When warming gravy, do so gently over low heat in a saucepan. Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even heating. If the gravy gets too thick, add a splash of broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Serving Gravy as a Side
For an interactive dining experience, serve the warm gravy in a small bowl on the side for dipping. This allows you and your guests to control how much gravy to add to each bite of the sandwich.
Creative Gravy Uses
Consider drizzling a bit of warm gravy over the assembled sandwich before serving. This adds moisture and an extra layer of flavor, making each bite even more irresistible.
Serving Suggestions
Plating Your Sandwich
For an attractive presentation, slice the sandwich diagonally and arrange it on a plate. You can elevate the visual appeal by adding a small sprig of fresh herbs or a colorful garnish like a cherry tomato or pickle.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your Herb Butter Turkey & Gravy Sandwich, serve it with a side of crispy homemade fries, a fresh green salad, or a warm bowl of soup. For drinks, consider pairing with a crisp apple cider or a light beer.
Creative Garnishes
Enhance the visual appeal of your sandwich by adding garnishes. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of paprika can make a simple sandwich look gourmet.
The Joy of Enjoying Your Herb Butter Turkey & Gravy Sandwich
Take a moment to savor the unique flavors and textures of your sandwich. The combination of herb butter, tender turkey, and rich gravy creates a comforting and satisfying meal. Enjoy the delightful experience of dipping your sandwich into warm gravy, adding an extra layer of indulgence to each bite.
Conclusion
The Herb Butter Turkey & Gravy Sandwich is more than just a meal; it is a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and joy to any dining experience. By combining fresh herbs, quality turkey, and rich gravy, this sandwich becomes a delightful comfort food that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it as a post-holiday treat or simply craving a hearty lunch, following this recipe will ensure a satisfying and flavorful experience that showcases the essence of home-cooked goodness. Enjoy every bite of this culinary delight!
Herb Butter Turkey & Gravy Sandwich
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper
- 4 slices rustic bread (sourdough or ciabatta)
- 2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
- 1 cup turkey gravy
- 0.5 cup cranberry sauce (optional)
- None cups mixed greens (arugula or spinach)
- None slices provolone cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Herb Butter: In a bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped parsley, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the herb butter is smooth. Transfer the herb butter to a piece of parchment paper, roll it into a log shape, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare the Bread: Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread a generous layer of herb butter on one side of each slice of rustic bread.
- Assemble the Sandwich: On a slice of bread (butter side down), layer some mixed greens and turkey slices. If using, add a slice of provolone cheese and a spoonful of cranberry sauce for a tart contrast. Top with another slice of bread, butter side up.
- Grill the Sandwich: Place the sandwich onto the preheated skillet and grill for about 3-4 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the sandwich and grill the other side until golden brown and the cheese has melted (if using).
- Heat the Gravy: While the sandwich is grilling, heat the turkey gravy in a small saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
- Serve: Once the sandwich is crispy and golden, remove it from the skillet and slice it in half. Serve with a small bowl of warm gravy for dunking. Enjoy your delicious Herb Butter Turkey & Gravy Sandwich!