The Unforgettable Harissa Steak Sandwich: Our Top Culinary Favorites of 2009 and a Look Ahead

There are some culinary moments that simply transcend the everyday, transforming a simple meal into an unforgettable experience. For me, the Harissa Steak Sandwich falls squarely into that category. It was more than just a sandwich; it was a delightful surprise, a testament to unexpected ambition, and a burst of exquisite flavor that still lingers in my memory. What I loved most about this particular creation wasn’t just its unbelievably delicious taste, but the sheer joy and surprise that I didn’t have to lift a finger to prepare it! It truly was a gift.

This remarkable sandwich holds a special place in our hearts, stemming from a memorable occasion that began with a spontaneous urge from my wonderfully sweet, albeit typically non-cooking, husband. If you recall this earlier post, he decided he wanted to venture into the kitchen and even chronicle his culinary journey on the blog. His inspiration struck after an evening spent together watching “Next Food Network Star.” He was particularly captivated by one of the show’s runner-ups, Jeffrey Saad, and his innovative approach to flavors. It was Jeffrey Saad’s recipe that my husband, Larry, chose for his grand culinary debut, and I must confess, I was utterly impressed. Not only by his ambition to tackle something so flavorful and unique but even more so by the spectacular outcome.

The Harissa Steak Sandwich: A Culinary Revelation

This isn’t just any steak sandwich; it’s an elevated, gourmet experience that combines bold flavors and satisfying textures. The secret weapon, of course, is harissa. For those unfamiliar, harissa is a vibrant, aromatic chili paste originating from North Africa. It typically features roasted red peppers, Baklouti peppers, serrano peppers, and a blend of spices like caraway, coriander, and garlic. Its flavor profile is complex—smoky, fiery, and deeply savory, offering a warmth that enhances any dish it touches. We were fortunate enough to find authentic harissa at a local butcher and gourmet shop, and its presence in this sandwich truly transforms it.

To truly appreciate this sandwich, you absolutely must make it exactly as intended. Every component plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious symphony of taste. The tender, perfectly cooked steak provides a robust base, while the harissa mayo introduces a creamy, spicy, and utterly addictive kick that coats the palate with a lingering warmth. The inclusion of bright, sweet yellow tomatoes adds a refreshing burst of acidity and a vibrant color contrast, cutting through the richness of the steak and mayo. And finally, the foundation upon which this masterpiece rests: authentic Cuban bread. Its crisp crust and soft, airy interior are essential, providing the perfect textural counterpoint and structural integrity to hold all those magnificent fillings together.

The combination is nothing short of heavenly. Each bite offers a complex interplay of spice, sweetness, savoriness, and a satisfying crunch. It was so remarkably good, so deeply satisfying, that we made an executive decision: this Harissa Steak Sandwich would be our last meal of 2009. That’s right, Larry, my kitchen-shy husband, was coaxed back into the kitchen for an encore performance to ring in the New Year with this culinary triumph. And I, for one, was absolutely thrilled to witness and, more importantly, taste it again!

Unlocking the Flavor of Harissa

If you’re new to harissa, don’t be intimidated. Its robust flavor is incredibly versatile. Beyond this amazing sandwich, it can elevate stews, marinades, dressings, and even roasted vegetables. Its unique blend of heat and spice offers a sophisticated alternative to more common chili pastes. When seeking it out, look for varieties in ethnic markets or well-stocked gourmet food stores. Once you experience its depth, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in many cuisines and why it made this sandwich an instant classic in our home.

Beyond the Sandwich: Reflecting on Our Top 5 Culinary Favorites of 2009

As the year drew to a close, it felt only natural to reflect on the culinary journey we’d undertaken. 2009 was a year filled with wonderful flavors, shared meals, and memorable kitchen experiments. Compiling a list of our absolute favorites was a delightful exercise, and while the Harissa Steak Sandwich definitely stole the show, there were other standouts that deserved recognition for their deliciousness and the joy they brought to our table.

Here’s a look at the dishes that truly defined our culinary year, making our Top 5 Favorites of 2009:

#1 Harissa Steak Sandwich

As already extolled, this sandwich was a game-changer. It represents the perfect confluence of delicious ingredients, surprising culinary effort, and an utterly satisfying eating experience. It wasn’t just a meal; it was an event, a testament to how simple, quality ingredients, when combined with a touch of daring flavor, can create something truly extraordinary. Its lingering warmth and complex profile solidified its position at the top, a well-deserved champion in our gastronomic review.

#2 Game Day Chili

Nothing quite embodies comfort and camaraderie like a hearty bowl of chili, and our Game Day Chili proved to be an absolute sensation. Perfect for gatherings, chilly evenings, or simply a robust family dinner, this chili was packed with rich flavors, tender meat, and just the right amount of spice to warm you from the inside out. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, fostering lively conversation and satisfied sighs. Its ability to feed a crowd and please every palate made it a strong contender for one of the year’s most beloved recipes.

#3 Roasted Vegetable Pesto Pizza

For those times we craved something lighter yet still incredibly flavorful, the Roasted Vegetable Pesto Pizza was an absolute dream. This pizza celebrated the vibrant bounty of fresh vegetables, expertly roasted to bring out their natural sweetness and depth. Paired with a fragrant pesto base instead of traditional tomato sauce, it offered a fresh, herbaceous twist that was both healthy and immensely satisfying. It proved that pizza can be a canvas for sophisticated, garden-fresh flavors, making it a refreshing and highly requested meal throughout the year.

#4 BBQ Pulled Pork and Chipotle Onion Sandwiches

Oh, the smoky, savory goodness of these sandwiches! Our BBQ Pulled Pork and Chipotle Onion Sandwiches were a masterclass in robust flavor. Slow-cooked pulled pork, infused with a tangy, slightly sweet barbecue sauce, was piled high and then elevated by the addition of caramelized chipotle-spiced onions. The smoky heat from the chipotle complemented the tender pork beautifully, creating a sandwich that was messy in the best possible way and utterly irresistible. It was a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for casual entertaining or a decadent weekend meal, solidifying its place as a top favorite.

#5 Chorizo and Eggs

Rounding out our top five, Chorizo and Eggs proved that breakfast, or even brunch, can be just as exciting and flavorful as any other meal. This dish brought a spicy, vibrant kick to our mornings. The rich, piquant flavors of Spanish chorizo, crumbled and cooked with fluffy scrambled eggs, created a deeply satisfying and aromatic combination. It’s a simple dish, yet so profoundly flavorful, perfect for starting the day with a bold culinary statement or for a comforting meal at any time. Its hearty and zesty nature made it an instant classic in our breakfast rotation.

A Warm Welcome to 2010: New Beginnings and Healthy Recipes Ahead

As we bid farewell to a delicious year and celebrate these culinary highlights, my heart is full of gratitude and excitement. Food, for us, is more than sustenance; it’s a source of joy, connection, and creative expression. The Harissa Steak Sandwich and these other favorites are not just recipes but memories tied to moments of shared happiness and unexpected delights.

Happy New Year to all of you! Wishing everyone Love and Laughter in 2010!

The dawn of a new year brings with it fresh perspectives and new culinary aspirations. We’re eager to explore new ingredients, techniques, and flavors. You can look forward to a fresh start here on the blog, brimming with exciting possibilities. I’m already envisioning countless new recipes that promise to be both delicious and health-conscious, perfect for kick-starting the new year with vitality and flavor. Get ready for a collection of dishes designed to nourish your body and delight your taste buds, ensuring that 2010 is just as flavorful, if not more so, than the year we just celebrated. We’re excited to share this journey with you, creating and discovering new favorites together.

See you next week with lots of new healthy recipes to kick off the New Year!