Your Guide to the Unwich: Ordering Jimmy John's Without Bread
Eating healthily on the go can be a challenge, especially when faced with fast-food menus dominated by bread, buns, and wraps. For those following low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets, the typical fast-food sandwich is a non-starter. Fortunately, Jimmy John's offers a simple and effective solution with its 'Unwich' option, a customizable sandwich wrapped in crisp lettuce instead of bread. This guide will walk you through the process of ordering an Unwich, selecting the right ingredients, and making smart choices to fit your nutritional goals.
What is an Unwich?
The Unwich is Jimmy John's term for any of its signature sandwiches served in a lettuce wrap. Instead of a French or wheat sub, your choice of fresh-sliced meats, cheese, and vegetables is wrapped in large, crunchy lettuce leaves. This substitution drastically reduces the carbohydrate and calorie count of your meal while still delivering the full flavor of the fillings. All Jimmy John's sandwiches can be prepared as an Unwich, offering a wide array of options for health-conscious diners.
How to Customize Your Unwich for a Healthy Diet
The beauty of the Unwich lies in its versatility. You can tailor your meal to your specific dietary needs, whether you're counting carbs, watching your calories, or avoiding gluten. Here’s how to do it effectively:
For Low-Carb and Keto Dieters
The Unwich is a natural fit for a ketogenic diet, which requires a very low daily carbohydrate intake. Most Unwiches contain 10 grams of carbs or fewer, making them an excellent fast-food keto option.
- Choose high-fat protein: Options like the Hunter's Club (roast beef and provolone) or the Club Lulu (turkey and bacon) are great starting points. Adding extra bacon or the avocado spread can further increase healthy fat intake.
- Emphasize veggies: Bulk up your meal with extra lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and onion for added fiber and nutrients without the carbs.
- Select keto-friendly sauces: While mayonnaise is a classic, the avocado spread is another excellent source of healthy fats. Stick to Jimmy Mustard or oil and vinegar for a lower-calorie dressing option.
For Calorie-Conscious Eaters
By replacing the bread, an Unwich can significantly lower your meal's overall calorie count. The savings are substantial; for example, the Bootlegger Club Unwich has 330 calories, compared to 680 in the bread version.
- Opt for lean protein: The Turkey Tom Unwich is a great choice, featuring lean turkey breast. The Plain Slims menu also offers simple, lower-calorie proteins like roast beef or ham.
- Mind your condiments: Mayo and some spreads can add hundreds of calories. Specify “no mayo” or opt for a lighter condiment like yellow mustard or oil and vinegar.
- Go light on cheese: Cheese adds fat and calories. Consider ordering your Unwich with less or no cheese to further reduce the calorie load.
For Gluten-Free Needs
If you have Celiac disease or a gluten intolerance, the Unwich is a fantastic option as it naturally contains no gluten. However, it's crucial to be mindful of potential cross-contamination.
- Communicate your needs: Inform the staff that you have a gluten allergy. A good practice is to mention it in the order notes if ordering online or tell the cashier and sandwich maker directly.
- Request a clean prep station: While not all locations have a dedicated gluten-free area, you can ask the staff to change gloves and use a clean surface and fresh utensils to prepare your meal.
- Avoid specific items: Be aware of potential gluten-containing ingredients. For example, some sources suggest the tuna salad could be at risk of cross-contamination, so ask the staff. Stick to the known gluten-free fillings listed on the Jimmy John's allergen information sheet.
Unwich vs. Traditional Sub: Nutritional Comparison
| Sandwich | Bread Version (French) | Unwich (Lettuce Wrap) | Difference (Unwich Savings) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bootlegger Club | ~680 calories, 71g carbs | ~330 calories, 5g carbs | ~350 calories, 66g carbs |
| Beach Club | ~730 calories, 69g carbs | ~470 calories, 8g carbs | ~260 calories, 61g carbs |
| Vito | ~710 calories, 57g carbs | ~340 calories, 7g carbs | ~370 calories, 50g carbs |
| Totally Tuna | ~510 calories, 57g carbs | ~280 calories, 5g carbs | ~230 calories, 52g carbs |
Note: Nutritional information can vary based on additional toppings and specific preparation. Always check the official nutrition guide for precise details.
Steps for a Perfect Order
Ordering an Unwich is a straightforward process, but following these steps ensures you get exactly what you want.
- Select Your Sandwich: Choose any Original or Favorite sandwich from the menu. Don't worry about the bread type yet.
- Request an Unwich: When ordering online, look for the 'Unwich' option in the 'Choose Your Bread' dropdown menu. If ordering in-person, simply say, "Can I get that as an Unwich, please?".
- Specify Toppings: Customize your toppings and condiments. Remove anything you don't want (e.g., mayo for calorie reduction) and add anything you do (e.g., extra veggies, avocado spread). For gluten-free orders, add a note about the allergy.
- Confirm the Order: Double-check your order to ensure the 'Unwich' selection is correct before completing the purchase.
Conclusion
Ordering a healthy meal at a sandwich shop doesn't have to be a guessing game. By knowing how to order Jimmy Johns without bread, you unlock a world of nutritious and customizable options. The Unwich is a clever and satisfying solution for various dietary needs, from low-carb and keto to gluten-free lifestyles. With fresh ingredients and the right modifications, you can enjoy a delicious and guilt-free fast-food meal anytime. For more detailed nutrition information, always check the official Jimmy John's allergen information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Unwich at Jimmy John's?
An Unwich is a sandwich from Jimmy John's that is wrapped in large, crisp lettuce leaves instead of traditional bread, offering a low-carb and gluten-free alternative.
Are Unwiches low-carb and keto-friendly?
Yes, Unwiches are a popular option for low-carb and keto diets, as they contain 10 grams of carbs or fewer, significantly reducing the carbohydrate content of your meal.
Are Unwiches gluten-free?
Yes, the Unwich is a gluten-free choice as it uses lettuce instead of bread. Customers with celiac disease should inform the staff of their allergy to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.
Which Unwiches are the healthiest?
To maximize the health benefits, choose lean protein options like the Turkey Tom or Plain Slim 2 (Roast Beef). Minimize high-fat add-ons like mayonnaise and extra cheese, opting for avocado spread or mustard instead.
What are the best low-carb toppings for an Unwich?
Excellent low-carb toppings include avocado spread, cucumber, onion, and Jimmy Peppers. For condiments, oil and vinegar, mustard, or the Kickin' Ranch are good choices.
Can I get an Unwich online?
Yes, when ordering online through the Jimmy John's website or app, you can select the 'Unwich' option from the bread choices for any sandwich.
Are there any gluten-free sides at Jimmy John's?
Some sides are gluten-free, including certain varieties of Jimmy Chips. Always check the official allergen information for the specific chip you are considering, as well as sauces and spreads.
