By Nancy Vallarella
Photo credit – Nancy Vallarella
Imagine a summer day in the South, where the air is thick with heat, the cicadas are serenading, and the kitchen is bustling with the creation of a timeless delicacy: the Southern Tomato Sandwich. This unassuming yet irresistible treat is more than just a sandwich; it’s a celebration of the season, a testament to simplicity, and a culinary experience that social media has recently catapulted into the spotlight.
The Hook: Why the Southern Tomato Sandwich is Your New Summer Obsession
You might think you’ve savored all summer has to offer—beach trips, barbecues, and lazy afternoons. But have you tasted the essence of summer itself? Enter the Southern Tomato Sandwich: a dish so straightforward, it’s genius. Fresh tomatoes, soft bread, and a generous slather of mayo—this trio transforms into a bite of pure sunshine. And here’s the kicker: it’s not just a sandwich; it’s a cultural icon that you’ll soon be craving every summer.
Building the Perfect Southern Tomato Sandwich
Tomatoes: The secret to the perfect tomato sandwich lies in the quality of the tomatoes. Forget the bland, out-of-season varieties. We’re talking about heirlooms like Cherokee Purple, Yellow Heirloom, and Beefsteaks, bursting with flavor and juiciness. For the best results, buy from local farmers or use homegrown tomatoes, harvested before they are fully ripe to avoid splitting and pest attraction. Allow them to ripen fully on your kitchen counter for that unbeatable fresh taste.
Bread: Traditionalists swear by soft white bread, but sourdough and whole wheat are worthy contenders, offering unique textures and flavors. Freshly baked bread elevates the experience, and while toasting is optional, consider keeping it fresh and soft to complement the juicy tomatoes.
Mayonnaise: Ah, the great mayo debate. Down South, Duke’s is king. Elsewhere, Hellmann’s rules. For those seeking a gourmet twist, Kewpie mayonnaise with its umami kick (enhanced with a touch of red miso) or homemade mayo can take your sandwich to the next level.
Seasoning: Keep it simple with salt and pepper or get adventurous with fresh herbs like basil leaves or chives. Mix herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice into your mayo for an extra layer of flavor that amplifies the tomato’s natural sweetness.
Where to Find some of the Best Tomatoes on Long Island
• Bakewicz Farms in Wading River and the St. James Market: Farmer Justin Bakewicz’s tomatoes are nurtured from March to August, ensuring they are perfect for your sandwiches. From beefsteaks to heirlooms, each variety is grown with care.
• Thera Farms in Brentwood: Known as the “Tomato Whisperer,” Farmer Teddy Bolkas grows an array of tomatoes using organic methods. Their farmstand even offers salsa boxes for those looking to expand their tomato repertoire.
Classic Tomato Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients:
• 2 slices of bread
• 1-2 ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Spread mayo on both slices of bread.
- Layer tomato slices on one piece of bread.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Top with the other slice of bread.
- Cut in half and enjoy.
Tips: Experiment with the thickness of your tomato slices. Thicker slices are easier to manage. Salting the tomato slices and letting them sit on a paper towel for a few minutes will concentrate their flavor and keep your bread from getting too soggy.
Homemade Mayonnaise Recipe
Ingredients:
• 1 egg (room temperature)
• 1 cup neutral oil (extra virgin
olive oil or avocado oil)
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
or lemon juice
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
Directions:
- In a wide-mouth mason jar, blend all ingredients with a stick blender, starting at the bottom for
10 seconds before moving up until fully emulsified. - Cover and refrigerate for up to four days.
With the Southern Tomato Sandwich, you’re not just making a meal; you’re embracing a tradition that tastes like sunshine. So, grab those tomatoes and get ready to bite into the magic of summer.
