Surinamese Pesto Sandwiches

Ingredients

In this Surinamese adaptation, the traditional Serbian Pester šnite is transformed into a sandwich. The original dessert is replaced with savory elements, such as grilled chicken, pickled onions, and a vibrant cilantro-based pesto. The flavors are influenced by Surinamese cuisine, incorporating ingredients like peanuts and lime juice to create a tropical twist. We alse have the original recipe for Pester šnite, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) fresh cilantro leaves 2 cups (470ml) fresh cilantro leaves
• 3 cloves of garlic 3 cloves of garlic
• 1/2 cup (60g) roasted peanuts 1/2 cup (60g) roasted peanuts
• Juice of 1 lime Juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices of crusty bread 4 slices of crusty bread
• 2 tomatoes, sliced 2 tomatoes, sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (120ml) white vinegar 1/2 cup (120ml) white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 6g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a food processor, combine the cilantro, garlic, peanuts, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth to make the pesto.
2. 2.
   Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, combine the sliced red onion, white vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir well and let the onions pickle for at least 15 minutes.
4. 4.
   Toast the slices of crusty bread until golden and crisp.
5. 5.
   Spread a generous amount of the cilantro pesto on each slice of bread.
6. 6.
   Top with sliced grilled chicken, tomato slices, and pickled onions.
7. 7.
   Serve the Surinamese Pesto Sandwiches immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cilantro — Make sure to wash the cilantro thoroughly and remove any tough stems before using.
• Chicken breasts — Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before grilling to ensure they cook evenly.
• Pickled onions — For a milder flavor, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before pickling.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier pesto, add a small chili pepper to the cilantro mixture.
• Substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add a slice of cheese, such as gouda or cheddar, for an extra layer of flavor.
• Serve the sandwiches with a side of plantain chips for a true Surinamese experience.
• For a refreshing twist, squeeze some extra lime juice over the assembled sandwiches before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Surinamese Pesto Sandwiches with a side of mixed greens or a tropical fruit salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sandwiches on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for an appealing presentation. Serve them open-faced to showcase the vibrant colors of the pesto, chicken, and pickled onions.