Bandito Dog Recipe

Prepare onions

Thinly slice 1 medium yellow onion into half-moons. Heat a medium skillet over medium-low heat and add 1 tsp olive oil and 1 tbs unsalted butter. When butter melts, add sliced onions and stir to coat.

Sprinkle 1 tsp granulated sugar over the onions, add 0.25 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Cook gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until onions become soft and translucent (about 10–12 minutes).

Increase heat to medium for 2–3 minutes to encourage light browning, then add 1 tsp apple cider vinegar and scrape any browned bits. Reduce heat to low and cook another 2–3 minutes until onions are sweet and jammy. Remove from heat and set aside. Yield: about 1/2 cup.

Prep the roll

Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Split the sandwich roll lengthwise, leaving a hinge if desired. Brush the cut interior lightly with 1 tsp olive oil and place cut-side down on the hot skillet until lightly toasted and golden, about 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Spread 1 tbs mayonnaise evenly on one side of the toasted roll and 1 tsp Dijon mustard on the other side. Season lightly with 1/8 tsp salt and a pinch (1/16 tsp) of black pepper across the mayonnaise side.

Layer the bottom of the roll with the sliced Genoa salami (6 slices) followed by the peppered ham (6 slices), arranging the meat to cover the length of the roll.

Place 3 slices of sharp cheddar cheese on top of the meats. If you prefer the cheese melted, return the assembled open sandwich to the warm skillet, cover with a lid for 30–60 seconds until the cheese softens, then remove.

Top the cheese with 1/2 cup sweet sautéed onions (from previous section), roasted red pepper strips (from 1 medium roasted red pepper), 1/4 cup thinly sliced raw red onion, and 3 sliced pepperoncini arranged evenly.

Close the sandwich, press gently to compress all layers, then cut in half (optional). Serve immediately.

Serve the Bandito Dog hot or at room temperature with a pickle spear or chips. The sandwich serves one generous portion; for a tighter bite, warm slightly before serving to meld flavors.