Crispy Squid Cutlet Sandwich with Air Fryer
#SquidCutletSandwich #HomemadeSubway #EasyAirFryerRecipe #SpecialOccasionMeal
This recipe introduces how to make a magnificent sandwich at home, rivaling Subway’s, using frozen squid cutlets. Crispy squid cutlets, fried to perfection in an air fryer, are combined with fresh vegetables, savory bacon, and melted cheese for a rich harmony of flavors. Lightly toasting the grain ciabatta bread in butter further enhances the sandwich’s appeal. The satisfying chewiness of the thick squid cutlets, the umami of the bacon, and the crispness of the fresh vegetables create a delightful experience with every bite. You don’t need meat patties; this sandwich is delicious and satisfying with just frozen squid cutlets. It’s so filling that half a sandwich is often enough! Highly recommended for special occasions or a delightful brunch.
Sandwich Ingredients- 2 Frozen squid cutlets
- 4 slices Thick-cut bacon
- 2 slices Sliced cheddar cheese
- 1 Fresh tomato
- 4 leaves Crisp lettuce
- 1/3 Onion
- 3 Tbsp Honey mustard sauce
- 2 Tbsp Tartar sauce
- 2 Tbsp Blueberry jam
- 2 Grain ciabatta loaves
- 1 Tbsp Butter for toasting
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash and prepare the lettuce and tomato. These will add freshness to your sandwich.
Step 2
Gently separate the lettuce leaves and pat them dry. Slice the tomato thinly, about 0.5 cm thick.
Step 3
Thinly slice the onion; it adds a wonderful depth of flavor to sandwiches. I used half of an onion that I had leftover. The thinner the slices, the better they integrate into the sandwich.
Step 4
To mellow out the sharpness of the onion, soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes. This process removes the pungent taste while retaining its subtle sweetness.
Step 5
Let’s make a special sauce to elevate your sandwich! Mix tartar sauce and honey mustard sauce in a 2:1 ratio. The tartness of the tartar sauce complements the seafood, while the honey mustard adds a touch of sweetness. You can use just one of the sauces if you prefer, or add chopped pickles for an extra zesty kick.
Step 6
Carefully slice the grain ciabatta loaves in half horizontally. Make sure the cut is generous enough to hold all the delicious fillings.
Step 7
Prepare the bacon strips. These will add a lovely savory note alongside the squid cutlets.
Step 8
Have your sweet blueberry jam ready. This will be spread on one side of the ciabatta, adding a fruity sweetness that balances the other ingredients.
Step 9
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Place the bacon slices in the air fryer basket and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until nicely browned and slightly crispy. Crispy bacon adds a fantastic texture.
Step 10
Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Swirl the pan to ensure the butter coats the surface evenly, being careful not to let it burn.
Step 11
Once the butter is melted, place the halved ciabatta loaves, cut-side down, into the skillet. Toast lightly for about 1-2 minutes until they are just warmed through and slightly golden. This makes the bread wonderfully soft and flavorful. You don’t need to toast the outer crust.
Step 12
On one of the toasted inner sides of the ciabatta, spread a thin layer of blueberry jam. This creates a sweet foundation for the sandwich.
Step 13
Arrange the prepared lettuce leaves neatly over the blueberry jam. The lettuce provides a refreshing crunch.
Step 14
Next, add the freshly cooked bacon slices on top of the lettuce. The savory flavor of the bacon is a great contrast.
Step 15
Layer the sliced tomato and the soaked, drained onion slices over the bacon. Overlapping the ingredients can make the sandwich look even more appealing.
Step 16
Cut the air-fried squid cutlets in half and place them on top of the other ingredients. Half a cutlet fits perfectly on one sandwich. The thick, satisfying squid cutlet will be the star of your sandwich.
Step 17
Place a slice of cheddar cheese over the warm squid cutlet. The heat from the cutlet will gently melt the cheese, helping to bind the ingredients together.
Step 18
Drizzle the prepared sauce generously over the cheese, then top with the other half of the ciabatta. Gently press down to meld the sandwich together.
Step 19
Wrap your finished squid cutlet sandwich in parchment paper or sandwich wrap for easy handling. If you like a little heat, feel free to add a dash of chili sauce or hot sauce. Enjoy your hearty and delicious homemade sandwich!
