master-cooks | What Exactly Goes On A Vermonter Sandwich?

A Vermonter sandwich is a delightful culinary creation that pays homage to the rich flavors and ingredients native to Vermont. At its core, this sandwich typically features a combination of hearty, rustic components. The foundation is often a sturdy bread, such as a crusty sourdough or multigrain, which provides a robust base. The filling includes succulent slices of turkey or ham, offering a savory and satisfying protein element. A signature ingredient is the addition of sharp Vermont cheddar cheese, known for its distinctive tang and creaminess, which melts beautifully when the sandwich is grilled or toasted. Complementing these main components are crisp apple slices, often sourced from local orchards, which add a refreshing sweetness and crunch. Sometimes, bacon is included, introducing a smoky, salty flavor that enhances the overall profile. To tie these ingredients together, a spread such as honey mustard or cranberry sauce is often used, adding a touch of moisture and a hint of tartness or sweetness. The result is a well-balanced sandwich that captures the essence of Vermont's local produce and artisanal cheese, offering a satisfying and flavorful experience with each bite.

A sandwich that highlights local ingredients

The ingredients for a Vermonter sandwich—bread, meat, and condiments—can vary based on personal preference, but apples and cheddar are essential. In fact, the sandwich was originally created to showcase apples. The first Vermonter was crafted in the 1990s by Jason Maroney at the now-defunct Sweetwaters American Bistro in Burlington, with the goal of incorporating more of the state's apples into local dishes.

While Vermont may not be the leading apple-producing state, it is still renowned for its apple products, including pies and cider. Each fall, apple harvesting takes place across Vermont, with numerous orchards and farms welcoming visitors. The state cultivates a variety of apple types, but the McIntosh is by far the most prevalent, making up 50% of the apple harvest (according to the Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association). This variety, along with tart apples like Granny Smiths, makes an excellent choice for a Vermonter sandwich.

Cheddar cheese is the typical choice for a Vermonter sandwich, as Vermont is home to Cabot Creamery, famous for its delicious cheddar. This cheese is known for its sharp flavor and firm, crumbly texture. While toasting the bread is common, melting the cheese is generally frowned upon, as sharp cheddar doesn’t melt well and loses the distinctive crumbly texture that makes this sandwich a Vermont classic.

What Exactly Goes On A Vermonter Sandwich?

A sandwich that highlights local ingredients

Recommended

Next up