What is The No.1 Sandwich in The World, Right Now? The World Food Championships Have Decreed It!

The prestigious title of "Best Sandwich in the World" at the 2024 World Food Championships has been claimed by a unique creation that blends Cuban and Italian culinary traditions. The champion sandwich, known as the Green Chili Mojo Roast Pork Cuban Italian Sandwich, was crafted by chef Phil "The Grill" Johnson, an innovative BBQ expert with roots in New York. His fusion of bold flavors, featuring marinated slow-roasted pork, provolone cheese, and hot pepper relish, secured the top spot. The win adds to Johnson’s impressive resume, further solidifying his reputation in the competitive food scene.

At the heart of the Green Chili Mojo Roast Pork Cuban Italian Sandwich is slow-roasted pork shoulder marinated in a green chili mojo, offering a perfect balance of spice and tenderness. The sandwich layers in provolone cheese, mortadella, capicola, and hot pepper relish, all of which combine to create an unforgettable medley of flavors. The choice of a toasted Cuban roll as the vessel for this masterpiece ties everything together, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite. The sandwich is a true testament to Johnson's creativity, as he cleverly merges two beloved culinary traditions—Cuban and Italian—into one remarkable bite.

For the judges at the World Food Championships, a sandwich is more than just the sum of its ingredients. They are looking for creativity, flavor complexity, and execution. Johnson’s sandwich checked all of these boxes, impressing the panel with its innovative use of ingredients, technique, and the perfect harmony of flavors. The green chili mojo marinade, in particular, added an element of surprise, as it brought just the right amount of heat to complement the richness of the pork and the sharpness of the cheeses. The toasted Cuban roll not only provided the perfect crunch but also held up well against the hearty fillings, ensuring that every bite was as satisfying as the last.

What is The World Food Championships?

The World Food Championships is one of the most prestigious culinary events in the world, drawing top chefs from across the globe to compete for the title of champion in multiple categories. Each year, chefs are tasked with creating dishes that not only showcase their technical skills but also their ability to innovate and surprise. For Johnson, this win marks a significant achievement in his career. Known for his “freestyle BBQ” style, which is deeply influenced by his New York roots, Johnson has continuously pushed the limits of what’s possible with traditional barbecue. Winning the sandwich category at the World Food Championships is the culmination of years of honing his craft and willingness to experiment with flavors.