A no-recipe recipe for how to cut a sandwich using a carving fork

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How to Cut a Sandwich

Learn how to cut a sandwich using a carving fork to hold your creation in place, ensuring precision and presentation.

We have all been there. You have a wonderful sandwich with lots of luscious filling, and when you go to cut it, the insides leak, the bread folds up and goes in different directions, then you have to put it back together. Not anymore.

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When you use a carving fork, which sometimes comes with a carving knife, you can hold the sandwich together while cutting it. The insides of the sandwich leak out because holding the sandwich down creates pressure. When you use a carving fork, the tines pierce everything simultaneously so the insides float against the tines and don’t leak out. It’s a wonderful thing.

The sandwich in the video is ham and cheese on both sides of bread with mayonnaise and mustard. That mixture is slippery, and using the traditional technique would make the ham, cheese, and lettuce slip out. That’s not on a Good Plate!

This technique will work fine when you are slicing a large sandwich like the Star Party Sandwich, a smaller sandwich like the Croque Monsieur, or even Curried Chicken Roll-Ups.

Star Party Sandwiches – Cream Cheese, BLT with Basil

Star Party Sandwiches are submarine BLTs enhanced with basil, cream cheese, and avocado. They are great for picnics and can be made ahead.

Cutting the Sandwich

First things first, choose the right tools. Use a sharp knife. A serrated knife is best for bread. A large serrated bread knife may be too large, so you can use any serrated knife; even a steak knife will do just fine. Place the fork firmly on top of your sandwich, pressing down gently to secure it in place. This simple yet effective technique ensures that your sandwich stays put, preventing fillings from oozing out.

Now, onto the cutting technique. Whether you prefer triangles, squares, or diagonals, the key is maintaining steady, even pressure, as you glide the knife through the layers. Start from the outer edge, and bring the knife down and towards you to make a fluid cut.

Of course, presentation is just as important as taste when it comes to food. Arrange your beautifully sliced sandwich on a plate with care, taking the time to showcase each layer. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of sauce can add the perfect finishing touch, transforming your sandwich into a work of culinary art.