Devonshire Sandwich Recipe: A Fusion of Flavours!
The Devonshire Sandwich is a Pittsburgh original, created by Frank Blandi in 1934 at the Union Grill. This hot open-faced sandwich, sometimes simply called the Devonshire, has become a staple in Pittsburgh cuisine and is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
The delicious combination of turkey, crisp bacon, and a rich cheese sauce makes this sandwich not just any ordinary sandwich – it’s a classic Pittsburgh favorite. The recipe ingredients may seem simple, but the taste is out of this world.
As someone who has had the pleasure of trying this sandwich firsthand, I can’t recommend it enough. That’s why I’m excited to share with you the original recipe for the Pittsburgh Turkey Devonshire Sandwich. Follow these instructions carefully and you’ll be able to create your own tasty and authentic Pittsburgh Devonshire right in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a warm, indulgent sandwich after a long day. And if you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, then look no further than the Devonshire Sandwich – a Pittsburgh original that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Created by Frank Blandi at the Union Grill in Pittsburgh in 1934, the Devonshire Sandwich has become a staple of the city’s culinary scene. This open-faced sandwich is typically served hot and features sliced turkey, crisp bacon, and juicy tomatoes, all smothered in a delicious cheese sauce made with cheddar cheese, chicken broth, and milk.
But what makes this classic Pittsburgh sandwich truly special is its versatility. The Devonshire Sandwich can be customized to suit any taste or occasion. Feeling fancy? Add some homemade paprika parmesan cheese to the cheese sauce for an extra kick of flavor. Want something lighter? Swap out the turkey and bacon for some fresh veggies for a vegetarian twist.
And let’s not forget about the sheer comfort factor of this sandwich. With its rich cheese sauce and buttery toast crusts trimmed just right, each bite is like a warm hug for your taste buds. It’s no wonder that this delicious creation has stood the test of time and remains a beloved favorite among Pittsburghers.
So whether you’re a fan of classic comfort food or just looking to try something new, the Devonshire Sandwich is definitely worth adding to your list. Don’t take our word for it; give it a try today and taste why this Pittsburgh original truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best sandwiches around!
Ingredient List
Here are the key ingredients you will need to make this iconic Pittsburgh original Devonshire sandwich:
- 3/4 stick of butter
- 1 cup of flour
- 1 1/4 pounds of grated cheddar cheese
- 1 pint of hot chicken broth
- 1 cup of hot milk
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Sliced thin, cooked turkey breast
- 3 slices of toast, with crusts trimmed
- 3 slices of crisp, cooked bacon
- 5 thin slices of fresh tomato
Make sure to gather all the ingredients before starting, so that you do not have to pause midway through cooking.
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s get started with the recipe how-to.
Ingredients:
- 3/4 stick butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 pound cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 pint chicken broth
- 1 cup hot milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 slices of toast, crusts trimmed
- 5 thin slices of cooked turkey breast
- 3 slices of crisp bacon, crumbled
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F.
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In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter and gradually stir in flour. Cook for several minutes, stirring constantly until smooth and bubbly.
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Gradually stir in chicken broth and milk.
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Cook on low heat until the mix is thickened and smooth.
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Add grated cheddar cheese and salt to taste. Continue cooking and stirring until cheese is melted.
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Toast the bread slices until golden brown.
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Place one slice in each open-faced sandwich dish, cover with sliced turkey, then add another slice of toast on top.
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Pour sauce over each sandwich and sprinkle with crisp bacon.
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Bake at 400°F for about 15 minutes until top gets bubbly-hot.
Your delicious Devonshire Sandwich is now ready to be served!
Enjoy this classic Pittsburgh recipe created by Frank Blandi from Union Grill in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Substitutions and Variations
The original Devonshire sandwich recipe created by Frank Blandi in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a classic that has stood the test of time. But there are always options for those who like to experiment in the kitchen.
For those who like a bit of spice, add a dash of paprika to your cheese sauce. This will give it a little kick and give your taste buds something to remember.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try a different type of cheese, substitute cheddar with parmesan cheese. This will give you a bold, salty flavor that pairs well with the turkey.
For those who want a lighter version of the sandwich, replace the chicken broth in the sauce with milk. It will be creamier and less heavy than the original.
To make the sandwich even more indulgent, add extra crisp bacon and thicker slices of turkey breast. The key is to balance out the richness of the cheese sauce with the savory flavors of these ingredients.
And finally, switch up the bread for a unique twist on this beloved Pittsburgh original. Try it with sourdough or even focaccia bread for some added texture.
Regardless of which variation you choose, be sure to stick to the key ingredients: turkey breast, crisp bacon, cheese sauce, and toasted bread. These items are what make this sandwich a true foodie favorite from Pittsburgh’s Union Grill.
Serving and Pairing
Once you’ve made your delicious Turkey Devonshire Sandwich, you’ll need to serve it up in style! One of the unique features of this sandwich is that it is typically served hot and open-faced, with a rich cheese sauce generously poured over the top.
For an authentic Pittsburgh experience, I recommend pairing your Devonshire Sandwich with a cold Iron City beer – a classic hometown brew. However, if you prefer wine, a crisp white like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light red such as Pinot Noir would work well with the dish.
In terms of side dishes, fries are the perfect accompaniment to this hearty sandwich. You could even top your fries with some paprika or parmesan cheese to complement the flavors in the sandwich. A side salad can also be a refreshing addition to balance out the richness of the cheese sauce.
If you’re entertaining guests, consider setting up a make-your-own Devonshire Sandwich bar, with all the fixings including bacon, tomatoes, and extra cheese sauce for those who like it extra saucy. Your guests will love creating their perfect sandwich and experiencing this Pittsburgh original right in their own home.
No matter how you choose to serve and pair your Turkey Devonshire Sandwich, your taste buds are sure to be delighted by this delicious and indulgent meal.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
When it comes to the Devonshire Sandwich, it is possible to make ahead of time and store for later use. However, it’s important to remember that this sandwich is best served hot and fresh. To preserve its delicious flavor, avoid making it too far in advance.
If you do happen to have leftovers or want to prepare ahead of time, you can store the sandwich in the refrigerator for up to three days. There are a couple of ways to approach reheating your Devonshire Sandwich. The first option is to heat it up in the oven at 300°F for approximately 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method ensures that your bread stays crisp, while also allowing the cheese sauce to melt perfectly.
Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, which is a quicker option but may impact the texture of the bread. To maintain some level of crunchiness, avoid wrapping the sandwich when reheating and instead place it on a plate.
To prepare ahead of time, you can create each of the individual ingredients separately and store them until ready to use. This includes pre-cooking your bacon, turkey and trimming your toast crusts. Additionally, you can make and refrigerate your cheese sauce in advance.
Overall, the Devonshire Sandwich isn’t difficult to prepare or store, but its layers must be balanced as well as reheated carefully so as not to sog up the bread. By following these tips, you can enjoy this classic Pittsburgh original devonshire sandwich whenever you want!
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you’re ready to make the Pittsburgh original, it’s important to keep a few tips in mind to create the perfect Devonshire Sandwich. Here are my top tips for ensuring a delicious outcome:
Firstly, make sure the cheese sauce is fully melted before adding it to the sandwich. This will ensure a smooth consistency and even distribution of flavor throughout the dish.
Secondly, don’t overcook the turkey breast. Overcooked turkey can become dry and tough, which will greatly affect the texture and taste of your sandwich. Instead, cook until just tender and juicy.
Thirdly, use thick slices of bread that can hold up to the weight of the toppings. The bread should be toasted until crispy on both sides to add a satisfying crunch to the sandwich.
Next, when making the cheese sauce, slowly whisk in hot milk while continuously stirring. This technique will prevent lumps from forming and create a creamy consistency.
For an extra punch of flavor, add paprika or parmesan cheese to the cheese sauce. This will add depth and complexity to the dish that will elevate it beyond the classic recipe.
Lastly, make sure to assemble the sandwich while it’s still hot for optimal enjoyment. The warmth will bring out all the flavors and aromas of the ingredients, particularly in a hot open-faced sandwich like this one.
By following these tips and incorporating your own creativity, you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious Devonshire Sandwich that would make Frank Blandi proud.
FAQ
As a helpful chef, I’m here to answer any questions that you may have about this delicious Devonshire Sandwich Pittsburgh original recipe. From preparing the cheddar cheese sauce mixture to oven timing, I’ve got you covered! Here are some frequently asked questions and my expert answers.
What is the origin of the Devonshire sandwich?
A popular sandwich known as the Turkey Devonshire or simply Devonshire has been around since 1934 and has its roots in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This mouthwatering dish is an open-faced sandwich served hot and toasted with turkey, tomatoes, bacon, and a savory cheese sauce. If you’re a fan of the Kentucky Hot Brown, this sandwich will also tickle your taste buds.
When was turkey sandwich invented?
Back in 1953, The Boston Globe featured an article with a rather sexist title, “Man’s Special Turkey Sandwich,” which included a recipe for a sandwich made with reheated stuffing, both white and dark turkey meat, gravy, and cranberry sauce piled onto sliced bread. This was the first time the sandwich was mentioned in the newspaper.
Bottom Line
The Devonshire Sandwich has become a beloved staple of Pittsburgh cuisine, thanks to Frank Blandi and Union Grill. Its unique combination of flavors and textures has stood the test of time, making it a classic sandwich that is loved by many.
If you haven’t tried this delicious sandwich yet, then I urge you to give it a shot. With its mouth-watering cheese sauce, juicy turkey, crisp bacon, and fresh tomatoes piled high on top of thick slices of toast, there is no wonder this sandwich has been so popular for almost a century.
In conclusion, the Devonshire Sandwich Pittsburgh original is an iconic dish that should be celebrated for its rich and flavorful taste. So go ahead and try it out today! I guarantee you won’t regret it.
Devonshire Sandwich Pittsburgh original!! Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 slice toast, crusts trimmed off
- 3 slices crisp bacon
- 5 thin slices cooked turkey breast
- 3/8 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup flour
- 1/4 lb grated cheddar cheese
- 1 pint chicken broth
- 1 pint hot milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- parmesan cheese
- paprika
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
- Fry bacon and remove from pan.
- Drain.
- Set aside.
- Melt ¾ stick butter in deep pan and add flour, stirring constantly.
- Add chicken broth.
- Stir.
- Add hot milk.
- Stir.
- Add cheese and salt.
- Bring to boil.
- Reduce heat.
- Cook slowly for 20 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Cool to lukewarm.
- Whip cheese sauce with wire beater until smooth.
- Place 1 slice toast in a casserole dish and top with 3 slices bacon.
- Add 5 slices turkey.
- Cover with the whipped cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle with a little melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and paprika.
- Bake 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
Your own notes
Nutrition
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Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.