Just Like Bennigan’s Sandwich – Copycat Recipe
Introduction
Indulge in the nostalgia of a classic sandwich that captures the essence of one of the most beloved menu items from the famous Bennigan’s chain. This copycat recipe for the Just Like Bennigan’s Sandwich is a delightful triple-decker creation featuring layers of ham, turkey, and cheese, all encased in a crispy tempura-style batter. Served with a dusting of powdered sugar and accompanied by sweet raspberry preserves, this dish is perfect for lunch or as a satisfying snack. With a preparation time of only 5 minutes and a cooking time of just 10 minutes, you can have this mouthwatering treat ready in no time. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this culinary adventure that brings a taste of Bennigan’s right into your kitchen!
Recipe Overview
| Name | Just Like Bennigan’s Sandwich – Copycat |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
| Description | A triple-decker ham, turkey, and cheese sandwich is dipped in a tempura-style batter, fried to a golden brown, then served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of raspberry preserves for dipping. The Bennigan’s chain made this sandwich famous. |
| Recipe Category | Lunch/Snacks |
| Servings | 1 |
| Keywords | Healthy, < 15 Mins |
Ingredients
Ingredients Table
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 3 | slices of Swiss cheese |
| 1 | slice of American cheese |
| 3 | slices of ham |
| 1 | slice of wheat bread |
| 1 | slice of turkey breast |
| 2 | eggs |
| 1 | cup all-purpose flour |
| 1 | teaspoon baking soda |
| 1 | cup ice water |
| – | Powdered sugar (for dusting) |
| – | Raspberry preserves (for dipping) |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1157.2 kcal |
| Total Fat | 33.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 508 mg |
| Sodium | 4292.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 145.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.5 g |
| Sugars | 9 g |
| Protein | 68.1 g |
Instructions
Step-by-Step Guide
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Prepare the Frying Oil: In a deep fryer or large saucepan, heat 8 to 12 cups of shortening to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Ensure that the hot shortening is at least 4 inches deep to accommodate the sandwich.
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Construct the Sandwich:
- Begin by laying out a slice of wheat bread on a clean surface.
- Layer the Swiss cheese over the bread, followed by the turkey breast.
- Add another slice of wheat bread on top of the turkey.
- Place the slice of American cheese on this second layer, followed by the ham slices.
- Finally, top the sandwich with the third slice of wheat bread, ensuring that the meat is not hanging over the edges.
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Flatten the Sandwich: Use the palm of your hand to press down gently on the sandwich, flattening it slightly for better frying.
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Make the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks from the two eggs.
- Gradually stir in the cup of ice water.
- In a separate bowl, sift the all-purpose flour and baking soda together. Slowly add this dry mixture to the egg yolk and water mixture.
- Stir with a large spoon, ensuring to leave some lumps in the batter; do not overmix.
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Prepare for Frying: Cut the sandwich in half diagonally from corner to corner.
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Dip and Fry the Sandwich:
- Dip one half of the sandwich into the batter, holding it together with your fingers. Allow any excess batter to drip off.
- Carefully drop the battered half into the hot shortening. If your frying vessel can accommodate it, dip and fry the other half at the same time; if not, fry them one at a time.
- Fry the sandwich halves for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time, until they are golden brown.
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Drain and Serve:
- Once fried, remove the sandwich halves from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess fat.
- After a few minutes, slice each half into two pieces, creating four delectable portions.
- Dust the sandwich pieces generously with powdered sugar for that classic touch.
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Enjoy: Serve the fried sandwich with a small bowl of raspberry preserves for dipping, allowing each bite to be complemented by the sweetness of the preserves. Enjoy your homemade Just Like Bennigan’s Sandwich!
Conclusion
This Just Like Bennigan’s Sandwich – Copycat recipe captures the essence of a classic that is both delightful and indulgent, making it a perfect addition to your lunch or snack repertoire. With its layers of savory ham and turkey, melted cheese, and a crispy, sweet coating, every bite is a delightful trip down memory lane. Whether enjoyed on a cozy afternoon or as a special treat, this sandwich is sure to impress friends and family alike. Don’t forget to share your experience with this recipe and enjoy the compliments that come your way!
Feel free to adjust the serving sizes or ingredients to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Happy cooking!
