Delectable Hot Dago Recipe: A Mediterranean-American Fusion!

The Hot Dago, a popular sandwich in the Midwestern United States, is a delightful meld of meats and spices that transports your taste buds to the Mediterranean coasts. Inspired by Italian flavors and given an American twist, this sandwich is a celebration of flavors that merge the juicy richness of meats with the light tang of Mediterranean spices.

Hot Dago Recipe Overview

The Hot Dago recipe is a sumptuous sandwich meal that consists of a tantalizing meat mixture sandwiched between slices of Italian bread and topped with a generous amount of mozzarella and parmesan cheese. The final product is then toasted to perfection to give it a crispy exterior and a juicy, cheesy core. The recipe takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare and cook and yields 8 servings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef: The beef provides a rich, meaty base for our sandwich filling.
• 2 lb ground pork: Adding pork sausage introduces a juicier, flavorful texture.
• 1 lb. ground Italian sausage: This lends an unmistakable Italian touch to the mix.
• 1 cup dried bread crumbs: Helps in binding the mixture together while adding a slight crunch.
• 3 Tbsp. Mediterranean Mate: This spice blend elevates the taste, introducing a touch of the Mediterranean.
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion: Onions impart a hint of sweetness and sharpness.
• 2 eggs: Act as a binder for the meat mixture, ensuring it holds together.
• 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes: Introduces a gentle kick to the overall flavor.
• 1 tsp. dried oregano: Gives the meat mix a hint of aromatic Italian flavor.
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced: Adds a splash of color and a crunchy texture.
• 1/2 loaf Italian bread, sliced: This will serve as our sandwich’s foundation, ensuring every bite is hearty.
• 1.5 lb. Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Provides a creamy and gooey texture to the sandwich.
• Grated parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this sharp cheese elevates the sandwich’s taste profile.

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork sausage, and ground Italian sausage.

2. Add in the dried bread crumbs, Mediterranean Mate, diced onion, eggs, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and bell peppers. Mix until well combined.

3. Shape the mixture into patties, ideally the size of the sliced Italian bread.

4. Preheat a skillet or grill on medium heat. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.

5. Place a cooked patty between two slices of Italian bread. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top, followed by a sprinkle of parmesan.

6. Toast the sandwich in an oven or on a skillet until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.

7. Serve immediately while hot.

Also Read: Hentons Potato Salad Recipe

FAQs

Q: Can I use only one type of meat for the patties?

Absolutely! While the blend gives a unique flavor, using just one type will still produce a delicious sandwich.

Q: How can I store leftover patties?

Leftover patties can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to a month.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the meat mixture?

Yes, you can add vegetables like mushrooms, olives, or even spinach based on your preference.

Q: What can I serve with the Hot Dago sandwich?

The sandwich goes well with side salads, fries, or even a bowl of soup.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese?

Mozzarella and parmesan are classic choices but feel free to experiment with cheddar, provolone, or any cheese of your liking.

Conclusion

The Hot Dago sandwich is a delightful fusion of flavors, capturing the essence of Mediterranean cuisine in a hearty American sandwich form. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a weekend treat. Enjoy!