Chefs reveal the fast food orders you must avoid at all costs – Find out now!
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When it comes to quick bites and comfort food, sandwich chains are often our go-to spots. They promise a fast, tasty, and often customizable meal that seems like a step up from the typical fast-food fare.
As we age, finding a balance between delectability and health seems to become more and more important. But even in the seemingly straightforward world of sandwiches, there are pitfalls to avoid, and who better to guide us through them than the culinary experts themselves?
The Unpalatable Truth about Pre-made “Salads”
Chef Brian Tsao, the culinary mastermind behind Brooklyn's Mission Sandwich Social, shares a crucial tip for sandwich enthusiasts: be wary of pre-made “salads.” This category includes favorites like tuna salad, chicken salad, and egg salad. While these may seem like harmless, even healthy options, there's a hidden risk.
“Never ever order any of the pre-made ‘salads,’ like tuna or egg, unless you can clearly see the spot is busy,” advises Chef Tsao. “I can't tell you how many times I've seen that stuff sit there for ages, and it's really gross.”
These salads can sit out for extended periods, leading to potential food safety issues and a significant drop in quality. Freshness is a cornerstone of good cuisine, and it's no different when it comes to sandwiches.
The Cheesesteak Conundrum
Mike Rice, the beverage director of Alexandria Restaurant Partners, points out another sandwich selection to avoid: cheesesteaks from places without a proper grill.
The essence of a good cheesesteak lies in the sizzle of thinly sliced steak on a hot grill, melding with onions, peppers, and melting cheese. Without this crucial cooking method, you're likely to end up with a subpar sandwich that doesn't live up to its name.
The Nostalgia Trap
Ambrely Oumiette, a personal chef based in Austin, shares a cautionary tale about the lure of nostalgia at fast-food chains.
She claims that she really loves sandwiches, “From New York deli sandwiches to a bodega bacon, egg, and cheese, I seek them out. On my travels on the road this week, I've stopped at several fast-food spots to catch up on what's going on since I rarely eat fast food.”
On a recent road trip, she indulged in a specialty burger with Fritos and chili from Dairy Queen–feeling nostalgic since her grandparents met at the chain as teenagers–only to be met with disappointment. “It was not delicious and very bad,” she recalls.
The Takeaway for Fast Food Lovers
So, what's the takeaway for those of us who love a good sandwich but want to avoid culinary missteps? Here are some tips to ensure your next sandwich chain experience is a delight, not a disaster:
1. Opt for Freshness: Choose sandwiches made to order, especially when it comes to salads and spreads. If it's not a busy time of day, the turnover for pre-made items might not be high, leading to less-than-fresh fare.
2. Know the Kitchen: Understand the capabilities of the establishment you're visiting. If they don't have the right equipment for certain sandwiches (like a grill for cheesesteaks), choose something else.
3. Trust Your Instincts: If something on the menu seems overly gimmicky or out of place, it might be best to stick with the classics. A simple ham and cheese or turkey club made with care will often outshine a novelty item.
4. Ask the Staff: Don't be afraid to ask the sandwich makers for their recommendations. They know what's fresh, what's popular, and what might be best avoided on any given day.
5. Customize Wisely: Take advantage of the ability to customize your sandwich. Add extra veggies for a nutritional boost, or ask for sauces and condiments on the side to control the flavor and calorie content.
While on the subject of fast food, several of the well-known chains are offering great deals you shouldn't miss out on. If you're craving for a spicy chicken sandwich, Wendy's has the best deal for you. You can learn more about it in this story here.
What are your sandwich chain horror stories or success tales? Do you have any additional tips for navigating the menu? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
As we age, finding a balance between delectability and health seems to become more and more important. But even in the seemingly straightforward world of sandwiches, there are pitfalls to avoid, and who better to guide us through them than the culinary experts themselves?
The Unpalatable Truth about Pre-made “Salads”
Chef Brian Tsao, the culinary mastermind behind Brooklyn's Mission Sandwich Social, shares a crucial tip for sandwich enthusiasts: be wary of pre-made “salads.” This category includes favorites like tuna salad, chicken salad, and egg salad. While these may seem like harmless, even healthy options, there's a hidden risk.
“Never ever order any of the pre-made ‘salads,’ like tuna or egg, unless you can clearly see the spot is busy,” advises Chef Tsao. “I can't tell you how many times I've seen that stuff sit there for ages, and it's really gross.”
These salads can sit out for extended periods, leading to potential food safety issues and a significant drop in quality. Freshness is a cornerstone of good cuisine, and it's no different when it comes to sandwiches.
Experiences from chefs suggest that even with nostalgic connections, some fast-food items like burgers with non-traditional toppings can be disappointing. Image source: Pexels.
The Cheesesteak Conundrum
Mike Rice, the beverage director of Alexandria Restaurant Partners, points out another sandwich selection to avoid: cheesesteaks from places without a proper grill.
The essence of a good cheesesteak lies in the sizzle of thinly sliced steak on a hot grill, melding with onions, peppers, and melting cheese. Without this crucial cooking method, you're likely to end up with a subpar sandwich that doesn't live up to its name.
The Nostalgia Trap
Ambrely Oumiette, a personal chef based in Austin, shares a cautionary tale about the lure of nostalgia at fast-food chains.
She claims that she really loves sandwiches, “From New York deli sandwiches to a bodega bacon, egg, and cheese, I seek them out. On my travels on the road this week, I've stopped at several fast-food spots to catch up on what's going on since I rarely eat fast food.”
On a recent road trip, she indulged in a specialty burger with Fritos and chili from Dairy Queen–feeling nostalgic since her grandparents met at the chain as teenagers–only to be met with disappointment. “It was not delicious and very bad,” she recalls.
The Takeaway for Fast Food Lovers
So, what's the takeaway for those of us who love a good sandwich but want to avoid culinary missteps? Here are some tips to ensure your next sandwich chain experience is a delight, not a disaster:
1. Opt for Freshness: Choose sandwiches made to order, especially when it comes to salads and spreads. If it's not a busy time of day, the turnover for pre-made items might not be high, leading to less-than-fresh fare.
2. Know the Kitchen: Understand the capabilities of the establishment you're visiting. If they don't have the right equipment for certain sandwiches (like a grill for cheesesteaks), choose something else.
3. Trust Your Instincts: If something on the menu seems overly gimmicky or out of place, it might be best to stick with the classics. A simple ham and cheese or turkey club made with care will often outshine a novelty item.
4. Ask the Staff: Don't be afraid to ask the sandwich makers for their recommendations. They know what's fresh, what's popular, and what might be best avoided on any given day.
5. Customize Wisely: Take advantage of the ability to customize your sandwich. Add extra veggies for a nutritional boost, or ask for sauces and condiments on the side to control the flavor and calorie content.
While on the subject of fast food, several of the well-known chains are offering great deals you shouldn't miss out on. If you're craving for a spicy chicken sandwich, Wendy's has the best deal for you. You can learn more about it in this story here.
What are your sandwich chain horror stories or success tales? Do you have any additional tips for navigating the menu? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
