Making your own sandwich spreads: from savory to sweet
A sandwich with toppings is a true classic, but you don't always have to go to the store for a jar or container. In fact, you can easily make many types of sandwich fillings yourself.
Why make your own sandwich fillings?
Making your own sandwich fillings has quite a few advantages. You know exactly what goes into them, can tailor the flavors entirely to your liking, and often use ingredients you already have at home. Moreover, many types of sandwich fillings are surprisingly easy to make yourself. In the mood for a creamy chicken curry? You can easily make one, for example, with boiled or fried chicken, mayonnaise, and curry powder. Meat salad and tuna salad are also true classics that you can put on the table yourself without much effort. Add some extra herbs, spices, or other flavorings, and you decide exactly how savory, spicy, or fresh your spread will be.
Classic savory bread topping
The possibilities for savory sandwich fillings are endless. Think of meat- or fish-based salads, but also spreads and pâtés. A homemade americain, for example, is delicious on a fresh baguette, while chicken curry and crab salad are perfect for a quick slice of bread or sandwich. Leftovers are also a great source of inspiration. Do you have any leftover fried chicken, meat, or vegetables? Incorporate them into a salad or spread and give them a second life. This way, you not only make tasty sandwich fillings but also reduce food waste.
You can also make your own sweet spreads.
Making your own spreads doesn't have to be just savory, of course. There is plenty to discover for those with a sweet tooth, too. Jam, for example, is a delicious way to use up seasonal fruit. Strawberries, raspberries, apricots, plums, or berries: almost any type of fruit is suitable. You can also make chocolate spread yourself surprisingly easily. With chocolate and a few other ingredients, you can create a creamy spread that is delicious on bread, toast, or pancakes. And anyone who is a fan of speculoos can make their own speculoos spread. It is ideal for getting that typical spicy flavor on your sandwich even outside the holiday season.
Making artisanal bread spreads
Those who prefer a more traditional approach can also get creative with artisanal sandwich fillings. Think of classics such as head cheese, potted beef, or rillette. These preparations require a bit more time and preparation, but the result is all the more special.
Vary the flavors
The nice thing about homemade spreads is that you are not tied to a single recipe. For example, you can make a classic tuna salad a bit fresher with lemon or herbs, while giving a chicken curry a little more kick with extra curry powder. With sweet spreads, you can experiment with different types of fruit, chocolate, or spices. This creates a new combination every time.
From sandwich to breadboard
Homemade spreads are, of course, not just delicious between slices of bread. Serve various types on a bread board during an elaborate breakfast or brunch. Add fresh bread, rolls, crackers, and some butter, and let everyone combine them themselves. Homemade spreads and salads are also ideal for a picnic, lunch, or aperitif. With just a few different toppings, you can create a varied table in no time.
How do you store homemade spreads?
Because homemade spreads usually have a shorter shelf life than many ready-made varieties, it is best to store them in a well-sealed container in the refrigerator. Exactly how long they will keep depends on the ingredients and the preparation method. Spreads containing raw meat or fish, such as americain, require extra attention: always use fresh ingredients, keep them well chilled, and eat them as soon as possible!
