Karstmaizes Panna with Spinach, Mozzarella, and Pesto

This delightful sandwich dish, known as “Karstmaizes Panna,” originates from the rich culinary traditions of Eastern Europe. It embraces the distinct flavors of rye bread, mozzarella cheese, and the earthy undertones of pesto, offering a delicious gastronomic experience that is both simple and sophisticated. Perfect for a quick meal or a delightful brunch option, this recipe combines rustic ingredients with modern flair.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 slices of Kelmė rye sourdough bread
8 teaspoons of pesto
1 pack of mozzarella cheese
8 slices of prosciutto
2 handfuls of spinach

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and ensure the spinach is washed and dried. Slice the mozzarella for easy layering.
Assemble the Base: Take each slice of rye bread and evenly spread 1 teaspoon of pesto on one side. This will be the inside of your sandwich.
Layer the Cheese and Greens: On four of the pesto-spread slices, layer mozzarella (sliced), followed by prosciutto, spinach, and another layer of mozzarella if you prefer cheesier sandwiches.
Top It Off: Place the remaining four slices of bread on top, with the pesto side facing down to complete your sandwich.
Prepare the Pan: Heat a pan over medium heat. Ideally, use a panini press or a heavy skillet to get that nice golden-brown crust.
Cook the Sandwiches: Place the sandwiches into the hot pan and apply a weight on top to press them down. This could be a smaller pan or a cake pan base with a mortar.
Monitor the Heat: Keep the heat at medium to ensure the cheese melts slowly and the bread crisps up without burning.
Brown the Sandwich: Cook until one side is browned and the cheese starts to melt.
Flip the Sandwich: Carefully turn the sandwiches over and brown the other side using the same method and weight.
Alternative Pan Options: If available, use a panini pan for the perfect press and grill marks.
Check the Melt: Ensure the cheese has completely melted inside for the best flavor experience.
Remove from Heat: Once both sides are browned and crispy, remove the sandwiches from the pan.
Cool Slightly: Allow the sandwiches to rest for a minute to set the cheese before cutting.
Slice and Serve: Slice the sandwiches diagonally for easy handling.
Garnish Options: Serve with cabbage leaves, arugula, fresh tomatoes, or pickles for added crunch and flavor.
Plate Elegantly: Arrange the sandwiches on a platter with your chosen garnishes.
Pair with Beverages: Consider serving with a chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Enjoy Immediately: Best enjoyed hot for that stringy, melted mozzarella effect.
Bon Appétit: Relish this fusion of tastes, balancing the salty prosciutto with creamy mozzarella.
Clean Up: Quickly wipe down the pan while it's still warm to avoid any sticking cheese residues.

Tips

Bread Selection: For an even more authentic taste, try finding traditional Eastern European rye bread.
Pesto Substitute: Basil or arugula pesto can be substituted for a slightly different flavor profile.
Spinach Alternatives: Feel free to use kale or field greens in place of spinach for different textures and tastes.
Cheese Option: For a tangier taste, consider using goat cheese in place of mozzarella.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per sandwich
Protein: 18g
Fats: 20g
Carbs: 28g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Remove the prosciutto and add roasted red peppers for a vegetarian version.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

Accompaniments: Serve with a side salad of mixed greens or a bowl of tomato bisque.
Garnishes: Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped chives on the side.

Best Places

Joe’s Sandwich Shop - Known for creative sandwich options worldwide. Location: 123 Sandwich Lane, New York, USA.
Rye Bread Bistro - Celebrates the art of traditional rye bread sandwich making. Location: 456 Rye Rd., Copenhagen, Denmark.
The Pesto Spot - Specializes in pesto-centric dishes. Location: 789 Green St., Genoa, Italy.
Mosaic Melt - Offers a wide variety of melted cheese sandwiches. Location: 1010 Cheese Cove, Zurich, Switzerland.
Le Fromage - A gourmet café for cheese lovers. Location: 110 Brie's Alley, Paris, France.
Spinach Heaven - Highlights dishes featuring spinach as the star. Location: 275 Leaf Ave., Seoul, South Korea.
Prosciutto Palace - Famous for its charcuterie and prosciutto specialties. Location: 314 Meats St., Florence, Italy.
Unique Mozzarella - A must-visit for mozzarella aficionados. Location: 400 Dairy Blvd., Naples, Italy.
Pressed Perfect - Specializes in panini and pressed sandwiches. Location: 520 Grill Rd., Sydney, Australia.
The Gourmet Sandwich Bar - A pantry of exquisite international sandwiches. Location: 660 Global St., Toronto, Canada.

This comprehensive guide should help you recreate the delicious flavors of Karstmaizes Panna right in your kitchen, offering both traditional tastes and contemporary twists!