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Bears’ Style Sub: A Taste of Victory

The roar of the crowd, the chill in the air, the tension before the snap – those are the moments etched in my memory, all flavored with the unmistakable taste of this very sub. Back in college, during the Bears’ glory days, my roommates and I perfected this recipe. It wasn’t just food; it was a ritual. Each layer meticulously placed, each bite a celebration (or consolation). This Bears’ Style Sub is more than a sandwich; it’s a taste of camaraderie and football fervor.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Dietary Type: Not Specified (Can be modified, see variations)

Ingredients

1 section (12 inches) of Italian bread
2 ounces Genoa salami
2 ounces Mortadella
2 ounces Hot capicola
2 ounces Provolone cheese
3 ounces Shredded lettuce
1 ounce Shaved onion
8 slices Tomatoes

Dressing

¾ cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup Olive oil
¼ cup Red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons Dried oregano

Equipment Needed

Large knife
Whisk
Cutting board

Instructions

Begin by carefully slicing the Italian bread horizontally. Ensure you don’t cut all the way through; you want to create a “hinge” so the sub can open and close.
Now, it’s time to build the meaty foundation. Layer the sliced Genoa salami evenly across the bottom half of the bread. Don’t be shy; a good sub is all about generous fillings.
Next, add a layer of mortadella. The smooth, delicate flavor of mortadella is a perfect counterpoint to the saltier salami.
Follow with the hot capicola. This spicy Italian ham brings a kick that elevates the entire sub. Distribute it evenly for a consistent heat in every bite.
Cover the cured meats with slices of provolone cheese. The provolone adds a creamy, slightly tangy element that binds the flavors together. Make sure the cheese covers the meat completely.
Now, it’s time for the fresh ingredients. Pile on the shredded lettuce, creating a fluffy bed for the remaining toppings.
Sprinkle the shaved onion over the lettuce. A little goes a long way; the onion adds a sharp bite that cuts through the richness of the meats and cheese.
Arrange the tomato slices on top of the onions. Their juicy sweetness provides a refreshing contrast to the savory ingredients.
In a small bowl, prepare the dressing. Whisk together the Italian dressing, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and dried oregano. Whisk until the ingredients are fully emulsified. The olive oil adds richness, red wine vinegar adds the tanginess, and oregano provides an aromatic undertone that complements the Italian flavors.
Drizzle the dressing liberally over the filling. Don’t be afraid to get generous – the dressing is key to bringing all the flavors together. Make sure the dressing is evenly distributed over the lettuce, tomato, and onion.
Close the top half of the Italian bread over the filling.
Using a sharp knife, cut the sub into four 3-inch pieces. This makes it easier to serve and eat.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Bread Selection: The quality of the bread is crucial. Opt for a crusty Italian loaf that can hold up to the fillings without getting soggy. Day-old bread actually works well, as it absorbs the dressing without falling apart.
Meat Placement: Layer the meats in an alternating pattern for the best flavor distribution. This ensures that each bite has a balanced combination of salami, mortadella, and capicola.
Cheese Choice: While provolone is traditional, you can experiment with other Italian cheeses like mozzarella or fontina.
Dressing Adjustment: Taste the dressing before drizzling it over the sub. Adjust the amount of olive oil or red wine vinegar to suit your preferences. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Make-Ahead Prep: You can assemble the sub ahead of time, but wait to add the dressing until just before serving. This will prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
Pressing the Sub: For a more compact and flavorful sub, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and weigh it down with a heavy object (like a cast-iron skillet) for about 30 minutes before cutting. This helps the flavors meld together.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Bears’ Style Sub immediately after assembling. It’s best enjoyed fresh to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The sub is best consumed within this timeframe to maintain its texture and flavor. Reheating is not recommended, as it can make the bread soggy. It’s best enjoyed cold.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	739.2 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	491 g	66%
Total Fat	54.6 g	83%
Saturated Fat	11.9 g	59%
Cholesterol	32.2 mg	10%
Sodium	1735.5 mg	72%
Total Carbohydrate	47.3 g	15%
Dietary Fiber	3.8 g	15%
Sugars	6 g	24%
Protein	16.6 g	33%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on ingredient substitutions and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian Version: Replace the salami, mortadella, and capicola with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers. Add marinated artichoke hearts for extra flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free Italian loaf.
Spicier Kick: Add a layer of Calabrian chili paste or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Cheese Variations: Substitute provolone with mozzarella, fontina, or Asiago cheese.
Dressing Alternatives: Try a balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy Italian dressing instead of the classic Italian dressing.
Deluxe Version: Add roasted red peppers, pepperoncini, or black olives to the filling.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this sub ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the sub a few hours in advance, but don’t add the dressing until just before serving to prevent the bread from getting soggy.

Q: Can I use different types of meat?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite Italian meats, such as prosciutto, soppressata, or even thinly sliced roast beef.

Q: What’s the best way to keep the bread from getting soggy?
A: Use a crusty Italian loaf and avoid adding the dressing too far in advance. You can also lightly toast the bread before assembling the sub.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Freezing is not recommended, as it can significantly affect the texture of the bread and fillings.

Q: Is there a way to make this sub healthier?
A: Yes, you can use leaner cuts of meat, reduce the amount of cheese, and add more vegetables. Using a whole-wheat Italian loaf will also increase the fiber content.

Final Thoughts

Now, it’s your turn to create your own Bears’ Style Sub and relive those unforgettable game day moments. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or simply a lover of delicious sandwiches, this recipe is sure to be a winner. Gather your friends, fire up the game, and enjoy the taste of victory. Don’t forget to share your creations and any fun variations you come up with! Bear Down!

Bears’ Style Sub Recipe