The Titan Turkey: A Tale of Two Sandwiches
When searching for information on the "Titan turkey," it's important to know there are two prominent sandwiches that share this name, from two different restaurant chains. The most widely known version in recent years comes from Subway as part of their updated menu, while a separate, distinct version is offered by the regional chain Erbert & Gerbert's. This guide will walk you through the specifics of both, detailing what's on each and how to recreate the experience at home.
The Subway Titan Turkey: A Closer Look at the #15
Subway's Titan turkey, listed as #15 on the Subway Series menu, arrived as part of a menu refresh that emphasized freshly sliced meats and new recipe combinations. This sub is designed for those with a serious appetite, going beyond the standard turkey sandwich with a combination of high-quality ingredients.
The Heart of the Sandwich: Freshly Sliced Meats
One of the most defining features of the Subway Titan turkey is its generous portion of meat. The sandwich includes a full 33% more freshly sliced turkey than a standard build-your-own sub, ensuring a robust and satisfying experience with every bite. This focus on freshly sliced meats was a major selling point for Subway's updated menu.
The Double Cheese Factor
To match the substantial amount of turkey, the Subway Titan is topped with double the provolone cheese. This extra layer of creamy, mild cheese melts beautifully and adds a richness that complements the savory turkey perfectly.
Crisp Veggies and Classic Condiments
Completing the classic flavor profile are the fresh vegetables and a simple, time-tested sauce. The Subway Titan comes with:
- Lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Red onion
- Mayonnaise
This combination offers a balance of freshness, texture, and creaminess that is familiar to any Subway fan.
The Foundation: Artisan Italian Bread
All of these ingredients are served on Subway's Artisan Italian bread, a soft and slightly chewy foundation that holds up well to the generous fillings of the Titan turkey.
The Erbert & Gerbert's Titan: A Different Flavor Profile
In a delicious twist, the regional sandwich chain Erbert & Gerbert's also features a sandwich called the Titan, though its ingredients and flavors are quite different. This version provides an alternative for those seeking a more tangy and herbaceous experience.
Turkey and Pesto Mayo
At Erbert & Gerbert's, the Titan starts with sliced turkey breast but departs significantly with its sauce. Instead of traditional mayonnaise, this sandwich uses a vibrant and tangy pesto mayo that gives it a distinct, zesty flavor.
The Provolone and Crunch
Like its Subway counterpart, the Erbert & Gerbert's Titan includes provolone cheese. However, it swaps the red onion for cool, crunchy cucumbers, along with lettuce and tomatoes.
Titan Turkey Sandwich Comparison
| Feature | Subway Titan (#15) | Erbert & Gerbert's Titan |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey | Freshly sliced, 33% more than classic | Sliced turkey breast |
| Cheese | Double provolone | Provolone |
| Sauce | Mayonnaise | Pesto mayo |
| Vegetables | Lettuce, tomatoes, red onion | Lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers |
| Bread | Artisan Italian | Standard bread options |
| Flavor Profile | Classic, savory, creamy | Tangy, herbaceous, fresh |
How to Make a Homemade Titan Turkey
For those who want to recreate one of these powerful sandwiches at home, here's a simple guide for both versions.
Homemade Subway-Style Titan
- Gather Ingredients: Purchase high-quality, thinly sliced deli turkey breast, provolone cheese slices, a fresh baguette or hoagie roll, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and your favorite mayonnaise.
- Stack the Meat and Cheese: On your bread, generously layer the turkey slices. Follow with a double layer of provolone cheese.
- Add Veggies and Sauce: Top with shredded lettuce, thinly sliced tomatoes, and red onion. Spread mayonnaise on the top half of the bread.
- Assemble and Enjoy: Close the sandwich, slice, and serve immediately.
Homemade Erbert & Gerbert's-Style Titan
- Prepare Pesto Mayo: Combine your favorite pesto with mayonnaise to create a creamy spread. Adjust the ratio to your taste.
- Gather Remaining Ingredients: Get high-quality sliced turkey, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and a cucumber.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the pesto mayo on your choice of bread. Layer the turkey and provolone. Top with lettuce, tomatoes, and thinly sliced cucumbers.
- Press and Serve: For an authentic experience, lightly press the sandwich before serving to help the flavors meld.
Variations and Customizations
Both versions of the Titan turkey are just a starting point for culinary exploration. You can easily customize them to your liking:
- Add Spice: For a kick, add jalapeños or banana peppers.
- Change the Cheese: Try cheddar, Swiss, or a pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Modify the Veggies: Incorporate different greens like spinach or change up the vegetables with bell peppers or pickles.
- Explore Different Sauces: Experiment with different mayo variations, a roasted garlic aioli, or a vinaigrette.
Conclusion: The Legacy of a Giant Sandwich
Whether you're a loyal Subway customer or a fan of Erbert & Gerbert's, the Titan turkey has proven to be a popular and satisfying choice for those looking for a hearty meal. The key to both lies in their generous portions and high-quality ingredients, resulting in a flavor that truly lives up to its mythological name. By understanding the distinct recipes, you can now confidently order your preferred version or even craft a mighty Titan turkey of your own at home. For more information on Subway's offerings, visit their official menu page.
