Order Like
a Regular
Even if you don’t have much deli experience, you can
still order at the counter like a seasoned pro.
Ordering at the deli counter can be intimidating. You have to know the name and weight of every item you want, as well as how to pronounce all those specialty meats and cheeses. It’s even more nerve-racking when you’ve got an audience of people waiting behind you. But don’t give up and get prepackaged meat from the grocery store—learn how to step up to the deli counter with complete confidence. Here are a few things to know the next time your number is called.
How Thick Should They Slice It?
When ordering meat or cheese at the deli, you should know how to request slices with different levels of thickness. From thinnest to thickness, these are the terms you need to know and when to use them. Naturally, your preferred cut is a matter of personal taste, so use these recommendations as friendly suggestions or starting points.
Shaved
So thin that the slice is almost transparent. It’s a good choice for specialty meats, such as Boar’s Head Prosciutto di Parma.
Very Thin
When you’re shopping for a Charcuterie board, try ordering the Boar’s Head Genoa Salami, Capocollo, Blanc Grue Gruyere or whatever else you’re putting on the board very thin.
Thin
If you’re getting slices of Boar’s Head London Broil or Mild Swiss to munch on between meals, a thin slice is a great way to make it a satisfying, but not overly filling, snack.
Sandwich Cut
As you might expect, this is the ideal thickness for a sandwich. Simply request your go-to Boar’s Head meat ‘sandwich cut’ when it’s your turn to order.
Dinner Cut
The thickest cut, and hearty enough to work in an entree. For instance, ask for Dinner Cut if you’ll be cubing Ovengold Turkey for a salad or Everroast Chicken for a pasta dish.
A Quick Guide to Deli Pronunciation
This should help you impress the guy or gal at the deli counter, as well as anyone in line who’s eavesdropping.
- Prosciutto: pro-shoot-toh
- Sopressata: so-press-ah-tah
- Havarti: huh-var-teeh
How Much Do You Order?
Once you know what you want and how to pronounce it, you’ll also need to tell the person behind the deli counter how much to cut. Luckily, it’s not too hard to calculate how much you’ll need.
¼ Pound
This should be enough for one big or two modestly sized sandwiches.
½ Pound
Enough for lunch with a friend or two.
1 Pound
Dinner for the whole family, since you’ll be able to make up to six sandwiches.
2 Pound
Dinner for the whole family, if you have teenagers who invite some friends over.
For more creative meal prep and recipe ideas, visit boarshead.com