Anthony Bourdain Inspired Mortadella Sandwich

A heavenly sandwich with fried mortadella, cheese, mayo, and mustard on a toasted bun.

This sandwich features crispy fried mortadella, melty cheese, and a toasted bun with mayo and mustard. Inspired by Anthony Bourdain, this adaptation offers a flavorful experience drawing from Brazilian and Italian influences.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Servings: 1 sandwich

Full Ingredient List

  • 1/2 lb mortadella, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil
  • 3 slices white American cheese (or Provolone)
  • 1 kaiser bun
  • 1 tablespoon mayo
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard

Mortadella Sandwich

Tools and Equipment

Ingredients

Quantity Name Preparation Notes Substitutions
1/2 lb mortadella thinly sliced regular bologna
1 tablespoon neutral oil
3 slices white American cheese Provolone
1 kaiser bun sourdough, Portuguese water roll
1 tablespoon mayo Kewpie Mayo
1 tablespoon dijon mustard yellow mustard

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat a cast iron skillet or flat top skillet over high heat. (Tips: A griddle function works as well.)
  2. Step 2: Divide the mortadella into three clumps, ensuring air pockets between slices. (Tips: Fold and clump each slice for the desired texture.)
  3. Step 3: Add oil to the hot pan and place the mortadella piles. Let it brown for a minute, then flip. (Tips: Aim for a golden, crispy crust.)
  4. Step 4: Add a slice of cheese to each pile after flipping. (Tips: Ensure even melting by covering with a lid briefly.)
  5. Step 5: Toast the bun halves by moving them around the pan to soak up oil. Remove once slightly crusted. (Tips: Do in the same pan for flavor.)
  6. Step 6: Assemble the sandwich by smearing mayo on one half of the bun, placing the cheese-covered meat stack, then the mustard on the top bun. (Tips: Slice sandwich down the middle before serving.)

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 850 kcal
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Fat: 70 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 6 g

Additional Information

Notes: This recipe pairs excellently with a cold beer or sides like salads or soups.

Background: This sandwich is inspired by Anthony Bourdain’s culinary exploration of Brazilian street food and its Italian influences, particularly from Sao Paulos Bar do Mané.

Geographic Region: Brazil

Seasonality: Year-round

Occasion: Lunch or casual dinner

Recommended Pairings

  • cold beer
  • crispy salad
  • tortellini soup

Tags

sandwich easy quick lunch dinner Brazilian Italian Anthony Bourdain comfort food