Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Massachusetts Baked Bean Delight Sandwich?
It is a savory sandwich that combines the New England tradition of baked beans with ham and Jarlsberg cheese on buttered brown bread.
What kind of bread is best for this recipe?
Hearty brown bread, such as pumpernickel, is recommended for its texture and ability to complement the beans.
How many calories are in one sandwich?
Each sandwich contains approximately 292 calories.
What type of cheese is used in this sandwich?
The recipe calls for Jarlsberg cheese, known for its mild, nutty flavor and excellent melting qualities.
How much protein is in a serving?
There are 15 grams of protein per sandwich.
Can I use canned baked beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can use high-quality canned baked beans or leftover homemade beans.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each sandwich contains about 15 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in each sandwich?
There are 24 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How do I prepare the beans?
Heat the baked beans in a saucepan over medium heat until they are piping hot before assembling the sandwich.
Should I season the beans?
Yes, you should taste the beans and season them with salt and fresh ground black pepper according to your preference.
What is the cooking method for these sandwiches?
The sandwiches are assembled and then broiled in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
How long should I broil the sandwiches?
Broil them for approximately 2 to 3 minutes, but keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Is there a vegetarian version of this sandwich?
You can make a vegetarian version by simply omitting the ham or using a plant-based ham substitute.
Do I need to butter the bread?
Yes, lightly spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread to add flavor and help it toast.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Jarlsberg is recommended, you can substitute it with Swiss or mild Provolone if needed.
How many slices of ham are used per sandwich?
The recipe suggests using one slice of thinly sliced ham per sandwich.
Is this recipe suitable for lunch?
Yes, it is a perfect option for a hearty lunch or a satisfying snack.
How many sandwiches does the recipe make?
With 8 slices of bread, the recipe makes 8 open-faced sandwiches or 4 full sandwiches depending on your preference.
Can I add other toppings?
While the recipe is traditional, you could add mustard or onions for extra flavor.
What is the total number of ingredients needed?
There are 7 main ingredients: baked beans, salt, pepper, butter, brown bread, ham, and Jarlsberg cheese.
Is this a traditional New England dish?
It is a modern twist on the traditional Saturday night baked bean suppers common in New England.
Can I use white bread instead?
You can, but the flavor profile will change; brown bread provides the intended earthy sweetness.
Should the bread be toasted beforehand?
No, the bread toasts under the broiler while the cheese melts.
How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Ensure the beans are thick and well-heated, and broil immediately after assembly.
Can I serve these cold?
These are best served hot and bubbly, though the components can be stored and reheated.
What type of ham is recommended?
Thinly sliced deli ham works best for layering on these sandwiches.
How much butter is used?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of softened butter for the bread.
Is this recipe easy to scale?
Yes, you can easily increase the quantities to serve a larger group.
What is the origin of the baked bean tradition?
The tradition stems from historical New England practices where beans were slow-cooked for Saturday meals.
Does this sandwich require a lot of prep time?
No, it is a quick recipe that mostly involves heating the beans and assembly.