If you’re a fan of hearty sandwiches packed with flavor, crispy fries, and delicious sauces, you’re in for a treat! The Mitraillette Belgium sandwich is an iconic Belgian street food that combines all these elements into one satisfying bite. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or a filling meal, this sandwich is a must-try. In this article, we’ll walk you through its origins, ingredients, and step-by-step recipe, so you can recreate this Belgian classic at home.
What is a Mitraillette?
The Mitraillette, which translates to “submachine gun” in French, is one of Belgium’s most famous street foods. This loaded sandwich earned its name due to its over-the-top, explosive combination of flavors and generous serving of ingredients. It’s a staple at friteries (Belgian fry shops) across the country.
At its core, a Mitraillette is a baguette stuffed with meat, crispy Belgian fries, and a generous amount of sauce. It’s beloved for being both affordable and incredibly satisfying, making it the go-to option for anyone seeking comfort food in Belgium.
The Key Components of a Mitraillette Belgium Sandwich
To make the perfect Mitraillette, you need to get each of its components just right:
1. The Bread
A soft, crispy baguette or long sandwich roll forms the base of this recipe. It needs to be sturdy enough to hold the fries and meat but soft enough for easy bites.
2. The Meat
The traditional Mitraillette includes:
- Grilled steak or beef patties
- Spicy sausages (merguez)
- Fried chicken strips or burgers
Feel free to choose your favorite protein for this recipe.
3. The Fries
Belgian fries, also known as frites, are thick, crispy, and golden. They are double-fried for the perfect texture and flavor.
4. The Sauce
No Mitraillette is complete without a generous drizzle of sauce. Some popular options include:
- Andalouse Sauce (a blend of mayo, tomato paste, and spices)
- Mayonnaise
- Ketchup
- Samurai Sauce (spicy mayo-based sauce)
- Tartar Sauce
5. Optional Toppings
Add extra toppings for texture and flavor:
- Lettuce
- Sliced tomatoes
- Pickles
- Cheese
Ingredients for Mitraillette Belgium Sandwich
To make a perfect Mitraillette Belgium Sandwich, you’ll need a mix of fresh ingredients and flavorful additions that come together to create this iconic street food.
The Bread for Your Mitraillette Sandwich
- Baguette or long sandwich roll: A fresh baguette is essential for holding all the fillings. Opt for one that’s slightly crispy on the outside but soft on the inside.
Best Meat Options for Mitraillette Belgium Sandwich
- Steak: Thinly sliced and cooked to your preference (medium-rare for added juiciness).
- Sausages: Spicy merguez sausages or bratwurst.
- Chicken strips: Fried or grilled for a leaner protein option.
- Burger patties: Beef patties are a classic choice.
Belgian Fries for the Perfect Mitraillette Sandwich
- Potatoes: Russet or Maris Piper potatoes work best for their starchy texture.
- Oil: Use vegetable or sunflower oil for frying.
- Salt: To season the fries once they’re hot and crispy.
Sauces:
- Andalouse Sauce: A Belgian favorite made with mayonnaise, tomato paste, and spices.
- Ketchup: A classic for sweetness and tang.
- Samurai Sauce: Spicy mayo for those who love heat.
- Tartar Sauce: Ideal for seafood variations.
- Garlic Aioli: For a gourmet twist.
Sauces That Complete the Mitraillette Sandwich
- Lettuce: Adds a fresh crunch.
- Tomatoes: Sliced thinly for juiciness.
- Pickles: For a tangy kick.
- Cheese: Melts beautifully over hot meat.
- Onions: Raw, caramelized, or pickled for added flavor.
- Jalapeños: To spice things up.
Having all these components ready ensures your Mitraillette comes together seamlessly and tastes authentic. The beauty of this dish is how you can mix and match these ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
“From steak to chicken to vegetarian fillings, the Mitraillette is endlessly versatile—it truly has something for everyone.”
How to Make a Mitraillette Belgium Sandwich
Follow these simple steps to prepare the ultimate Belgian street food experience:
1: Prepare the Fries
- Peel and cut the potatoes into thick sticks for Belgian fries.
- Rinse the potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch. Pat them dry with a towel.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 320°F (160°C).
- Fry the potatoes in batches for 4-5 minutes, until they are soft but not browned. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry the potatoes again for 2-3 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Sprinkle with salt and set aside.
2: Cook the Meat
- Choose your preferred protein: steak, sausage, burger patty, or chicken strips.
- Season the meat with salt and pepper.
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat and cook the meat until fully done.
- For steak: Sear on both sides for 3-4 minutes.
- For sausages: Grill or pan-fry until browned.
- For chicken: Cook until golden and crispy.
- Remove the meat and set it aside.
3: Assemble the Mitraillette
- Slice the baguette lengthwise and lightly toast it if desired.
- Place the cooked meat inside the baguette.
- Pile a generous amount of crispy fries on top of the meat.
- Drizzle your favorite sauce over the fries.
- Add optional toppings like lettuce, sliced tomatoes, or cheese.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Tips for the Best Mitraillette Belgium Sandwich
- Perfect Fries: Always double-fry the potatoes for authentic Belgian fries.
- Bread Matters: Use fresh baguettes or long rolls for the best texture.
- Sauce Selection: Mix and match sauces for a unique flavor.
- Meat Options: Experiment with different proteins to suit your preference.
Why You Should Try Mitraillette
The Mitraillette is more than just a sandwich; it’s a Belgian street food experience. Here’s why it’s so popular:
- It’s filling and flavorful, making it a complete meal in itself. The combination of juicy meat, crispy fries, and creamy sauces satisfies both your hunger and taste buds.
- Combines crispy fries, tender meat, and creamy sauces into a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that are hard to resist.
- Offers a balance of textures: crispy fries provide a satisfying crunch, while the soft bread and savory meat create a comforting bite every time.
- It’s customizable – you can add toppings, sauces, or swap proteins to suit your taste, allowing endless variations to fit your mood or dietary needs.
- A true representation of Belgian food culture: comforting, generous, and rich in flavor. It’s an iconic street food that showcases Belgium’s love for fries and hearty meals.
- Perfect for sharing – the Mitraillette’s generous size and bold flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, whether served at gatherings or enjoyed with family and friends.
- Ideal for trying something new. If you’re looking to explore international cuisine, the Mitraillette is an accessible and exciting way to start.
“The Mitraillette perfectly blends indulgence and comfort, a true icon of Belgian street food.”
Whether you’re in Belgium or cooking at home, the Mitraillette is a sandwich worth savoring. It’s a dish that delivers satisfaction in every bite and leaves you wanting more.r cooking at home, the Mitraillette is a sandwich worth savoring.
“Crispy fries, juicy meat, and creamy sauces all in one bite—what more could you ask for?”
Variations of Mitraillette Belgium Sandwich
Here are a few creative twists on the traditional recipe:
- Vegetarian Mitraillette: Replace the meat with grilled vegetables, falafel, or veggie patties. Top with andalouse sauce, sliced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese for added richness.
- Spicy Mitraillette: Add a kick to your sandwich with spicy merguez sausages or chili-marinated chicken strips. Layer with jalapeños, a drizzle of hot chili sauce, and creamy samurai sauce for balance.
- Chicken Mitraillette: Swap out steak or sausages for crispy fried chicken strips or grilled chicken breast. Add a layer of melted cheese, pickles, and garlic aioli for a burst of flavor.
- Seafood Mitraillette: For a unique twist, use crispy fried fish fillets, such as cod or haddock, as the protein. Pair with tartar sauce, lettuce, and a squeeze of fresh lemon for a refreshing take.
- Gourmet Mitraillette: Elevate your sandwich with premium steak or tenderloin, caramelized onions, and melted Gruyère cheese. Add truffle mayonnaise for a luxurious flavor experience.
- Breakfast Mitraillette: Turn the Mitraillette into a hearty breakfast sandwich by adding crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and sausage. Drizzle with ketchup or spicy sriracha for a morning kick.
- Vegan Mitraillette: Create a plant-based version with crispy tofu or tempeh, roasted veggies, and vegan-friendly sauces like garlic aioli or chipotle mayo.
“The Mitraillette isn’t just food; it’s an experience that brings people together through its bold flavors.”
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a Salad: Serve your Mitraillette alongside a simple green salad or coleslaw. The fresh, crisp vegetables balance the richness of the sandwich.
- Add Beverages: For a true Belgian experience, pair the sandwich with an ice-cold Belgian beer. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water, iced tea, or a refreshing soda.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve extra dipping sauces on the side, such as mayonnaise, garlic aioli, or spicy samurai sauce. It’s perfect for an extra indulgence.
- Make It a Meal: Complete the meal with a side of pickles, onion rings, or mozzarella sticks for a hearty feast.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut the Mitraillette into smaller sections and serve it as a shared appetizer for parties or gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a Mitraillette?
A Mitraillette is a Belgian street food sandwich filled with meat, fries, and sauce. It originated in Belgium and is a popular choice at fry shops across the country.
Why is it called a Mitraillette?
The name “Mitraillette” translates to “submachine gun” in French. The sandwich is said to resemble the size and shape of the weapon, while its bold and satisfying flavors deliver an “explosive” culinary experience.
What meat is used in a Mitraillette?
Traditional Mitraillettes use steak, spicy sausages (merguez), or burger patties. You can also find variations with fried chicken strips or grilled chicken, depending on your taste preference.
Can I make Mitraillette with vegetarian ingredients?
Yes! A vegetarian Mitraillette can be made by substituting the meat with grilled vegetables, falafel, or plant-based patties. Add your favorite sauce and toppings for a delicious meat-free option.
How do you make Belgian-style fries?
Belgian fries, or frites, are double-fried to achieve their crispy texture. First, they are cooked at a low temperature to soften, then fried again at a higher temperature until golden and crispy.
What are the best sauces for Mitraillette?
Popular sauces include andalouse (a blend of mayo and spices), mayonnaise, ketchup, samurai (spicy mayo), and tartar sauce. Combining multiple sauces can also elevate the flavor.
Can I bake the fries instead of frying?
While baking fries is a healthier option, frying delivers the classic crispy texture that makes Belgian fries so unique. For best results, double-fry them.
How long does it take to make a Mitraillette?
It typically takes about 40-45 minutes, including preparing and double-frying the potatoes, cooking the meat, and assembling the sandwich.
Can I prepare the components in advance?
Yes, you can pre-cook the meat and fries in advance. Reheat the fries in a hot oven or fryer for maximum crispiness, and assemble the sandwich just before serving.
Is Mitraillette only popular in Belgium?
While the Mitraillette is a Belgian classic, its popularity is spreading worldwide among food lovers. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout sandwich anywhere.
Conclusion
The Mitraillette Belgium sandwich is not just a meal; it’s a culinary celebration of bold flavors, hearty textures, and Belgian tradition. With its perfectly cooked meat, crispy golden fries, and rich, creamy sauces tucked inside a fresh baguette, the Mitraillette stands out as one of the most indulgent and satisfying sandwiches you’ll ever try. Whether you enjoy it as a quick street food snack or as part of a full meal, this sandwich guarantees to delight your taste buds and leave you feeling full and happy.
Beyond its taste, the Mitraillette captures the essence of Belgian food culture—simple, comforting, and generous. It’s perfect for sharing with friends, family, or serving at gatherings to introduce others to the joy of Belgian cuisine. The flexibility of its ingredients also makes it easy to customize to your preferences, so you can make it exactly the way you love.
So, don’t wait any longer! Bring the flavors of Belgium to your kitchen, experiment with toppings and sauces, and enjoy the satisfying crunch and savory goodness of a homemade Mitraillette. It’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this Duck Wings Recipe for another delicious dish to try!
Bon appétit, and happy cooking!