Mastering Sub Sauce: The Ultimate Recipe and Variations for Perfect Subs

Submarine sandwiches, affectionately known as “subs,” have become a staple in many diets worldwide. A key component that elevates these sandwiches is the sub sauce—a flavorful condiment that ties all the ingredients together. In this article, we’ll explore a versatile homemade sub sauce recipe reminiscent of popular fast-food chains, delve into various sauce variations to cater to diverse palates and dietary needs, and uncover the intriguing history behind sub sauces.​Tony Lukes

The Quintessential Sub Sauce Recipe

Creating a restaurant-quality sub sauce at home is both simple and rewarding. Here’s a base recipe that captures the essence of the classic sub sauce found in many sandwich shops. Discover how to make the perfect sandwich at home for flawless results.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup soybean oil (or a blend of soybean and olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar​
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard​
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano​
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder​
• 1 teaspoon onion powder​
• 1 teaspoon sugar​
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste​

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and sugar. Whisk until the sugar dissolves.​
2. Slowly drizzle in the soybean oil while continuously whisking to create an emulsion.​
3. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.​
4. Transfer the sauce to a squeeze bottle or airtight container and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.​

Note: For a more authentic flavor, using a combination of soybean and olive oil can mimic the taste found in many sub shops.​

Flavorful Variations to Suit Every Taste

To cater to different preferences and dietary requirements, here are some delightful sub sauce variations:

1. Garlic Aioli

A creamy and rich sauce that adds a robust garlic flavor to your sub.​

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mayonnaise​
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice​
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste​

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice.​
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.​
3. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the garlic flavor.​

Vegan Alternative: Use vegan mayonnaise to make this sauce suitable for vegans.​

2. Spicy Chipotle Mayo

This sauce adds a smoky heat to your sandwich, perfect for those who enjoy a kick.​

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise​
• 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 tablespoon white distilled vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar​
• 1 tablespoon onion powder​
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder​

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine all the ingredients and blend until smooth.​
2. Transfer to a container and refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors meld.​

Note: Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers to control the heat level.​

3. Balsamic Vinaigrette

A tangy and slightly sweet sauce that pairs wonderfully with Italian-style subs.​

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar​
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard​
• 1 teaspoon honey​
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey.​
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to create an emulsion.​
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.​

Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients, especially the Dijon mustard, are certified gluten-free.​

4. Sweet Onion Sauce

A sweet and tangy sauce that adds a unique flavor profile to your sub.​

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar​
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch​
• 1/2 cup white vinegar​
• 1/4 cup water​
• 1 tablespoon minced onion​
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard​
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds​
• 1/2 teaspoon salt​

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and cornstarch.​
2. Add the vinegar, water, and minced onion. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.​
3. Remove from heat and stir in the Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and salt.​
4. Let it cool before using.​

Check out our 10 must-try sauces for any sandwich for more flavor options.

The History of Sub Sauce: Where It All Began

Submarine sandwiches, commonly known as subs, hoagies, grinders, or heroes, have been around for decades. However, what truly makes a sub stand out is the sauce. Many attribute the rise of classic sub sauces to Italian-American delis in the mid-20th century, where oil-and-vinegar dressings became the gold standard.Learn more in our ultimate guide to Italian subs.

The Influence of Subway’s Sub Sauce

One of the most famous sub sauce variations is Subway’s signature oil and vinegar dressing, often combined with seasonings like oregano and garlic. This simple yet powerful blend enhances the flavors of meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables. Over time, sandwich shops and home cooks have experimented with more creative sauces, giving rise to today’s wide variety of sub condiments.

Best Sauce Pairings for Different Subs

Not all sauces work for every sandwich. Here’s a quick guide on the best sub sauces for different types of subs:

1. Classic Italian Sub

Best Sauce: Red Wine Vinegar & Oil Dressing or Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Complements cured meats like salami, ham, and capicola
• Enhances sharp provolone cheese

2. Turkey & Avocado Sub

Best Sauce: Garlic Aioli or Honey Mustard

• Pairs well with the mild flavor of turkey and creamy avocado
• Adds depth and creaminess

3. Spicy Chicken Sub

Best Sauce: Spicy Chipotle Mayo

• Perfect for grilled or fried chicken subs
• Adds a smoky kick

4. Meatball Sub

Best Sauce: Marinara & Parmesan Garlic Butter

• Brings out the rich tomato flavor of the meatballs
• Garlic butter enhances the toasted bread

5. Veggie Delight Sub

Best Sauce: Balsamic Vinaigrette or Sweet Onion Sauce

• A great option for vegetarians
• Enhances the fresh crunch of veggies

F.A.Q: Everything You Need to Know About Sub Sauce

1. What sauce is good for subs?

The best sauce depends on your sandwich. Oil & vinegar is a classic choice, but options like garlic aioli, balsamic vinaigrette, and spicy mayo also work great.

2. What dressing goes on subs?

Popular sub dressings include:

• Oil & Vinegar (classic choice)
• Chipotle Mayo (for spice lovers)
• Garlic Aioli (for creaminess)
• Honey Mustard (for a sweet touch)

3. What is sub sauce called at Subway?

Subway’s famous sub sauce is a blend of red wine vinegar and oil, often seasoned with oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper.

4. How to make burger sauce?

A simple burger sauce consists of:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon pickle juice or relish
• A dash of paprika & garlic powder

Mix and refrigerate for 30 minutes for the best flavor!

5. What to put on subs?

The perfect sub includes:

• A good sauce (Oil & Vinegar, Aioli, Mustard, etc.)
• Fresh toppings (Lettuce, Tomato, Onions, Pickles)
• High-quality meats & cheeses

Conclusion: Make Your Sub Stand Out

With these delicious sub sauces, you can take your sandwiches to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a classic Subway-style sub sauce or a spicy, creamy, or tangy variation, there’s a recipe for every sandwich lover. Try these homemade sauces, experiment with flavors, and enjoy restaurant-quality subs at home! Enhance your subs with the best homemade bread for subs.