This Prosciutto and Asiago Sandwich with Marsala Mushrooms and Fig Jam is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience. A symphony of sweet, savory, and umami notes that will captivate your taste buds and redefine your expectations for the ultimate sandwich. Prepare for an irresistible journey!

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Prosciutto and Asiago Sandwich with Marsala Mushrooms and Fig Jam: A Gourmet Culinary Masterpiece

Hello, fellow food enthusiasts! As the crisp air of autumn settles in and the kitchen beckons with the promise of warm, comforting flavors, I’ve found myself in a whirlwind of creative baking and cooking. From hearty stews to delightful desserts, fall offers a bounty of inspiration for crafting dishes that truly warm the soul. Yet, amidst all this culinary excitement, a recent review of my recipe index revealed a glaring omission: a complete lack of gourmet sandwich recipes! It was a surprising discovery, considering my passion for all things delicious and accessible. How could I call myself a food blogger without a single dedicated sandwich creation?

Well, dear friends, that oversight ends today! I am thrilled to introduce a game-changing addition to our repertoire: the Prosciutto and Asiago Sandwich with Marsala Mushrooms and Fig Jam. Yes, it’s a mouthful, but every word in that title represents a crucial ingredient that elevates this sandwich far beyond the ordinary. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a meticulously crafted balance of textures and tastes, designed to leave a lasting impression. While it may be the first sandwich featured on this blog, I have no doubt it will set a remarkably high bar for any to follow.

The Art of the Gourmet Sandwich: Balancing Sweet and Savory

The beauty of a truly exceptional sandwich lies in its ability to marry diverse flavors into a harmonious whole. This Prosciutto and Asiago sandwich exemplifies that principle, masterfully blending sweet, savory, tangy, and earthy notes in every bite. It’s a testament to the idea that humble ingredients, when thoughtfully combined, can create something truly extraordinary. Forget your preconceived notions of what a sandwich can be; this recipe invites you to explore a more sophisticated side of casual dining, perfect for a luxurious lunch, an elegant brunch, or even a light dinner.

Unveiling the Key Components: A Deep Dive into Each Irresistible Ingredient

Each element of this sandwich plays a pivotal role in its overall perfection. Let’s explore the star players that make this creation so uniquely delicious:

Marsala Mushrooms: An Umami Powerhouse

You know our deep affection for Marsala Mushrooms here at The Beach House Kitchen. These savory beauties are a versatile addition to countless dishes, and their rich, earthy notes are absolutely indispensable for this sandwich. Sautéed to perfection with garlic, thyme, and a splash of Marsala wine, these mushrooms develop an incredible depth of flavor that is both robust and subtle. The Marsala wine, with its sweet and complex profile, beautifully caramelizes the mushrooms, intensifying their natural umami and adding a sophisticated warmth that acts as a bridge between the savory prosciutto and the sweet fig jam.

The process of slowly cooking the mushrooms until they release their moisture and then caramelize creates a tender yet firm texture, absorbing all the aromatic spices and the distinct essence of Marsala. They bring a hearty, substantial quality to the sandwich, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness. If you haven’t tried making Marsala mushrooms before, this recipe is the perfect introduction to their magic.

Irresistible Fig Jam: Sweetness with Sophistication

To achieve that sublime sweet-savory balance, a luscious fig jam is essential. Its natural sweetness and slightly earthy undertones provide a delightful contrast to the salty prosciutto and sharp Asiago. While my homemade fig jam recipe yields more than you’ll need for two sandwiches, it’s a fantastic staple that keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three months, perfect for future sandwiches, an elegant cheeseboard, or even spread on toast for breakfast. Making fig jam at home allows you to control the sweetness and consistency, resulting in a fresher, more vibrant flavor.

However, if time is a constraint or fresh figs are out of season, a high-quality store-bought fig jam will also do the trick – just don’t skip this crucial element! The jam acts as a sweet counterpoint, brightening the heavier savory ingredients and ensuring a well-rounded flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more.

Prosciutto and Asiago: A Classic Italian Duo

The foundation of the savory section relies on two Italian classics. Prosciutto, a dry-cured ham, offers a delicate saltiness and melt-in-your-mouth texture that is utterly luxurious. Its subtle sweetness and rich, porky flavor are a perfect complement to the other components. When thinly sliced, it adds a delightful chew without overpowering the sandwich. Pairing it with Asiago cheese, a semi-hard Italian cheese with a nutty, slightly tangy, and robust flavor, creates an exquisite combination.

Asiago, especially when thinly sliced, contributes a fantastic textural element and a sharp, full-bodied taste that cuts through the richness of the prosciutto and mushrooms. Its distinct character stands up well to the bold flavors, adding another layer of complexity to this gourmet creation. Together, prosciutto and Asiago form a truly harmonious pairing that grounds the sandwich in classic Italian deli tradition while still allowing for inventive additions.

The Foundation: Crusty Artisan Bread

No gourmet sandwich is complete without the right bread. For this recipe, a sturdy, crusty artisan bread is paramount. Its robust texture provides the necessary structural integrity to hold all the delicious fillings, preventing sogginess and ensuring a satisfying bite. Toasting the bread adds another layer of texture, offering a crisp exterior and a soft interior, which is ideal for absorbing the Dijon mustard and fig jam without becoming limp. The right bread elevates the entire experience, transforming a simple collection of ingredients into a cohesive, enjoyable meal.

Choosing an artisan bread means selecting one with a good crumb structure and a flavorful crust – think sourdough, a rustic country loaf, or a good quality ciabatta. This attention to detail in the bread selection truly sets this sandwich apart.

The Finishing Touches: Dijon Mustard, Arugula, and Sweet Gherkins

These seemingly small additions play significant roles in enhancing the overall flavor profile. A thin layer of tangy Dijon mustard on the bottom slice provides a subtle heat and acidity that awakens the palate and balances the richness of the meats and cheeses. Fresh, peppery arugula adds a crisp texture and a refreshing, slightly bitter note that cuts through the richness and adds a vibrant green color. Finally, the sweet gherkins threaded onto the skewer are not just for presentation; their sharp, sweet-sour crunch provides a delightful burst of acidity that cleanses the palate and adds another layer of complexity. Each of these elements, though minor, contributes to the sophisticated symphony of flavors found in this sandwich.

Assembling Your Masterpiece: A Step-by-Step Guide

The magic truly happens when all these incredible ingredients come together. Assembling this sandwich is an art, but a simple one, ensuring that each layer contributes to the ultimate flavor and texture experience. We start at the foundation and build our way up, creating a symphony of tastes that will delight your senses.

It all begins with a foundation of perfectly toasted, crusty artisan bread. This isn’t just any bread; its robust texture is key to supporting the wealth of flavors to come. On one slice, a generous smear of tangy Dijon mustard awakens the palate with its subtle kick. Next, a crisp bed of fresh, peppery arugula introduces a vibrant, slightly bitter counterpoint, adding a fresh dimension to each bite. Then, delicate, thinly sliced prosciutto, with its irresistible saltiness and tender texture, meets the sharp, full-bodied notes of thinly sliced Asiago cheese.

The star of the savory section, our drool-worthy Marsala mushrooms, are piled generously on top of the cheese, adding a rich, umami depth that is truly unforgettable. Finally, the other slice of toasted artisan bread, generously spread with our sweet and aromatic fig jam, crowns this magnificent creation. This sweet layer perfectly balances the savory richness below, creating a harmonious blend that is simply divine. To complete the experience and keep all these magnificent layers in place, secure it all with a bamboo skewer, playfully threaded with two classic sweet gherkins. These little pickles provide a delightful crunch and a tangy finish, making every bite an adventure. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an experience waiting to be savored!

The Full Recipe: Prosciutto and Asiago Sandwich with Marsala Mushrooms and Fig Jam

Here’s how to create this incredible sandwich in your own kitchen:

Prosciutto and Asiago Sandwich with Marsala Mushrooms and Fig Jam

Author: Mary Ann Dwyer

Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients

For the Fig Jam:

2 lbs. fresh figs, stemmed and cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup water
Pinch of salt

For the Marsala Mushrooms:

1 (8 oz.) container white button mushrooms, sliced
2 Tbsp. butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1/8 tsp. dried thyme leaves
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1/8 tsp. ground black pepper
2 Tbsp. Marsala wine

For Assembling the Sandwich (Per 2 Sandwiches):

4 slices crusty artisan bread, toasted
3 tsp. Dijon Mustard
1/2 cup arugula
1 (3 oz.) package prosciutto (approximately 6 slices)
3 oz. Asiago cheese, sliced thin
The prepared Marsala Mushrooms
The prepared Fig Jam

Instructions

Fig Jam Preparation:
1. Place the stemmed and cut fresh figs in a large saucepan over high heat.
2. Add granulated sugar, lemon juice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves.
3. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Continue to cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the fruit softens and the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency. This process typically takes about 45 minutes.
4. Remove from heat. Carefully spoon the hot jam into clean, sterilized jars. Seal tightly and allow to cool to room temperature.
5. Store the fig jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Marsala Mushrooms Preparation:
1. In a large sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced white button mushrooms and cook, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms begin to release their moisture and start to soften.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme leaves, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Continue cooking until most of the mushroom liquid has evaporated, and the mushrooms begin to brown.
4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to brown beautifully and develop a rich, caramelized exterior.
5. Pour in the Marsala wine. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rapid boil. Continue to boil until the Marsala wine has significantly cooked down and reduced to a glaze, imparting its rich flavor directly into the mushrooms.
6. Remove the Marsala mushrooms from heat and set aside.
Sandwich Assembly:
1. On two slices of the toasted artisan bread, spread 1 ½ teaspoons of Dijon mustard evenly on each slice. These will form the base of your sandwiches.
2. On top of the Dijon mustard, arrange a generous bed of fresh arugula, ensuring good coverage.
3. Layer 3 slices of prosciutto onto the arugula, followed by an even layer of thinly sliced Asiago cheese.
4. Generously add a portion of the prepared Marsala mushrooms on top of the cheese, distributing them evenly.
5. Take the remaining two slices of toasted bread and spread 2 teaspoons of the prepared fig jam on each. Place these jam-spread slices on top of the mushroom layers, completing your sandwiches.
6. For an authentic presentation and to keep everything securely in place, carefully insert a bamboo skewer through each sandwich. For an added touch of flavor and visual appeal, thread two sweet gherkins onto each skewer before inserting it into the sandwich.
7. Serve immediately and savor every exquisite bite!

Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings

This Prosciutto and Asiago Sandwich with Marsala Mushrooms and Fig Jam is a meal in itself, but it can be beautifully complemented by a few simple sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette would offer a refreshing contrast, or a small bowl of olives and cornichons could further enhance its gourmet appeal. For drinks, consider a robust red wine like a Chianti or a lighter Pinot Noir to complement the savory notes, or a crisp, dry hard cider for a more casual pairing. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a lemon twist or an unsweetened iced tea would be perfect. This sandwich is equally delightful served for a sophisticated lunch, a hearty brunch, or a light, elegant dinner.

Beyond the Recipe: Customizing Your Gourmet Sandwich

While this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors, don’t hesitate to experiment and customize it to your personal preferences. If you’re not a fan of Asiago, try a sharp provolone, a mild goat cheese, or even a creamy brie for a different texture. For a vegetarian option, you could omit the prosciutto and perhaps add roasted red peppers or grilled eggplant for extra depth. Different types of mushrooms, such as cremini or portobello, would also work beautifully with the Marsala wine. You can even try substituting the arugula with spinach or mixed greens, or swapping the sweet gherkins for pickled onions for a sharper tang. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this gourmet sandwich truly your own.

Conclusion: Savor Every Bite of This Unforgettable Creation

Creating this Prosciutto and Asiago Sandwich with Marsala Mushrooms and Fig Jam has been a delightful journey, and I am incredibly excited to share this unique and utterly satisfying recipe with you. It’s a dish that proves that sandwiches can indeed be sophisticated, full-bodied, and absolutely unforgettable. From the rich earthiness of the Marsala mushrooms to the delicate saltiness of the prosciutto, the tangy Asiago, and the sweet embrace of fig jam, every component contributes to a truly exceptional culinary experience. I encourage you to set aside some time in your kitchen to embark on this gourmet adventure. You won’t regret it.

If you create this delicious recipe, we’d love to see it! Share your photos on Instagram and be sure to tag @thebeachhousekitchen or use the hashtag #thebeachhousekitchen! Happy cooking and happy eating!