November 3 marks National Sandwich Day! Not only is the almighty sandwich one of the most versatile foods known to man, but it’s also generally an affordable option for noshing. We tapped our notoriously food-obsessed employees for some of their favorites.
Reuben
An undeniable umami-bomb, a Reuben sandwich is a staple of classic Jewish delis. Salty, cured corned beef is piled high on toasted rye bread and topped with melty Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing. Prepare to get messy when you eat this monster of a sandwich. Try making your own with this recipe from Delish.
Rachel
The Reuben’s got a sister and she’s not messing around either. A Rachel sandwich is toasted sourdough bread, roasted turkey breast, coleslaw, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing. Rachel’s a little lighter (and friendly for people who aren’t into red meat) but no less flavorful!
Turkey Club
A diner + deli classic, this triple-decker is stacked with sliced and roasted turkey breast, tomatoes, lettuce, bacon (you cannot forget this part!), and mayo. The best clubs barely hold together and might require you to unhinge your jaw to get that first bite. The Brookside Deli in Macungie, PA, is famous for its delicious take.
Cheesesteak
As Pennsylvania’s largest credit union, we would be remiss to put out a list of sammies that didn’t include the famous Philly staple: The Cheesesteak. Pat’s vs. Geno’s vs. Jim’s debates aside, there’s something irresistible about thin-sliced, flat-top grilled ribeye smothered with that bright orange Whiz and topped with tons of luscious sauteed onions.
Italian Hoagie
A sub has many names, but in Pennsylvania, we call it a hoagie. And there’s nothing better than a long roll stuffed to the brim with cured Italian meats and cheeses. You’ll find capicola, salami, cooked ham, prosciutto, and even pepperoni sliced up in a classic Italian hoagie. Complimented by sharp provolone, "shredduce” (shredded iceberg lettuce), tomatoes, onions, olive oil, vinegar, and oregano, you can opt to add mayo, long hots, or hot Italian pepper relish to finish it off. In Harrisburg, you’ll find a battle for the best Italian hoagie between Mother’s Subs and the Jackson House.
Peanut Butter
A staple of most kids’ diets, a good ol’ peanut butter sandwich never goes out of style. Slather it with your favorite jam or get fancy like some of our employees who enjoy theirs with bananas, bacon, marshmallows, and even potato chips! This lunchbox fave has endless possibilities.
Caprese
Sure, those mile-high, meat-filled sandwiches are tasty, but nothing beats the simplicity of a caprese sandwich. Crusty bread, ripe tomatoes, pillowy mozzarella, and bright green pesto combine forces for an out-of-this-world Italian flavor bomb. Alvaro’s, a Food & Wine Magazine darling in Harrisburg, serves their caprese sandwich on one of their homemade Italian rolls.
Grilled Cheese
Much like the peanut butter sandwich, grilled cheese is a humble but versatile childhood favorite. Our employees previously shared their suggestions for the best grilled cheese sandwich for National Grilled Cheese Day - check it out here.
Primanti Bros.
Originating in 1933 from a small sandwich cart in the Strip District in Pittsburgh, the Primanti Bros. Sandwich has gained notoriety far beyond the borders of the Steel City. This sandwich is comprised of your choice of deli meat and provolone cheese, topped with their vinegary coleslaw, tomatoes, and - in true Pittsburgh fashion - French fries, all served between two thick slices of Italian sandwich bread. What’s not to love? Whether this sandwich is your gameday go-to or a classic you just can’t stop eating, it’s sure to hit all the right notes.
This list summarizes some of the best sandwiches found not only in PA, but anywhere sandwiches are made. And don’t worry - we also polled our employees about the controversial “is a hot dog a sandwich?” question. Their verdict was...NOPE. The hot dog is NOT a sandwich. There you have it folks, that debate is officially settled. Now, enjoy chowing down on whatever YOUR favorite sandwich is!
Earn Rewards Every Time You Dine
Grab your Founder’s Rewards Card the next time you step out to nosh on your favorite sandwich. You’ll earn 2%* or 1.5% in cash rewards on every purchase, every time. Learn more and apply today.
*You can earn 1.5% cash rewards on purchases. You can earn 2% cash rewards on purchases if you maintain a PSECU checking account and qualifying monthly direct deposit(s) of at least $500. Some exclusions may apply. See the Visa® Founder's Card and Visa® Alumni Rewards Card Rewards Program Terms and Conditions for full details.