What is tuna melt?


A tuna melt is a type of sandwich that typically consists of tuna salad and melted cheese served on bread. It is a popular comfort food enjoyed in many parts of the world. The sandwich is made by combining canned tuna with mayonnaise, diced onions, celery, and other seasonings to create a tuna salad mixture. The tuna salad is then spread on bread slices, topped with cheese (usually cheddar) and grilled or baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The result is a warm and savory sandwich with a creamy tuna filling and a gooey cheese topping. Tuna melts are often served with a side of pickles, potato chips, or a small salad.


Here's a simple recipe for a delicious tuna melt:



Ingredients:

- 2 cans of tuna, drained

- 1/4 cup mayonnaise

- 2 tablespoons diced red onion

- 2 tablespoons diced celery

- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 4 slices of bread (your choice of bread)

- 4 slices of cheddar cheese

- Butter for spreading



Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, diced red onion, diced celery, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.

2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

3. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice.

5. Flip the bread slices over, so the buttered side is facing down.

6. Divide the tuna mixture evenly among two of the bread slices, spreading it out to cover the entire surface.

7. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of the tuna mixture on each bread slice.

8. Top each sandwich with the remaining two slices of bread, buttered side facing up.

9. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, and the bread is toasted to your liking.

10. Remove the tuna melts from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before serving.

11. Cut the sandwiches in half and serve them warm.


Enjoy your homemade tuna melts!


History of tuna melt?



The exact origins of the tuna melt sandwich are not well-documented, but it is believed to have emerged in the United States in the mid-20th century. Tuna became a popular ingredient during World War II due to its accessibility and affordability. Canned tuna was widely used as a ration for soldiers, and its popularity continued to grow in post-war America.

The concept of melting cheese onto a sandwich had already gained popularity with dishes like the grilled cheese sandwich. The idea of adding melted cheese to a tuna sandwich likely emerged as a way to enhance its flavor and create a more indulgent and satisfying meal. The combination of tuna salad, cheese, and bread was a natural evolution, resulting in the creation of the tuna melt sandwich. Its warm and melty texture, along with the savory flavors of the tuna and cheese, made it an instant hit. Over time, variations of the tuna melt emerged, with different ingredients and seasonings being added to suit personal tastes. The tuna melt has since become a classic American comfort food, often found on menus of diners, cafes, and sandwich shops. Its popularity has also spread to other parts of the world, where it is enjoyed as a delicious and satisfying sandwich option.