Go over there, Unwitch. Jimmy John’s has introduced a new (and dare we say improved) carb-free alternative to the classic sandwich. But this time, instead of wrapping the popular meat, cheese, and toppings in lettuce, they’re using a giant kosher pickle instead of bread.
“Combining all the signature fresh flavors of the classic Jimmy John’s sandwich,” The Pickle Witch will be joining the limited-time menu in two styles: the Vito Pickle Witch and the Turkey Pickle Witch. As a self-proclaimed sandwich lover and always on the lookout for healthier options, I happily volunteered to try out the new product for myself.
I ordered both. The Vito Pickle Witch includes gutted kosher dill pickles with salami, capollo, provolone cheese, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions, sauce and herbs. And the Pickled Turkey Witch contains turkey, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion in the same pickle “bun.”
As a pickle fan, I was sure I wouldn’t dislike this sandwich. But I wasn’t sure if it would really satisfy my desire for a classic sub of bread. I was even more worried about whether I would be able to survive childbirth. Will Pickle Witch still boast the same crunch? Will the meat absorb all the pickle flavor?
Megan Schaltegger
When I opened the package of Pickle Witch, I was pleasantly surprised to find it fresh and intact. It was a little difficult to get the oversized kosher pickle into my mouth, but the first bite was an explosion of nostalgic flavor. The pickles themselves had a nice texture and didn’t interfere with the taste of the other ingredients as much as I had feared.
Megan Schaltegger
It was light and healthy (sandwiches range from 150 to 350 calories), but I still felt full enough that I didn’t need an afternoon snack afterwards.
Although Jimmy John’s hasn’t revealed its inspiration, the pickle sandwich became a trending topic on TikTok well before its release. New Jersey Sub Shop Elsie’s
Lenny & John’s became a hot topic on social media by selling pickle sandwiches.
“I started making subs with tubs. I started making subs with things other than bread, like pickles and cucumbers,” Elsie’s owner Tish Reddington told Delish. “That’s when things really took off. Over the last five years, pickles have become a huge thing.”
Jimmy John’s version is available on the menu through November 14th. You can also try the chain’s pickle chips, which have a tangy vinegar flavor.
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Megan Schaltegger is a New York-based author. She loves strong coffee, exploring Manhattan’s food scene, and her dog, Murray. She promises not to talk about herself in third parties IRL.
