Pork and Broccoli Rabe Sandwich

When I lived in Boston there was a great pizzeria, Proper Slice (which I believe has since closed, but was one of the few pizza places us former NYC-ers could accept as having a good slice). But, beyond their pretty ok pizza, they had the best damn sandwich I've ever had: tender roast pork, bitter and garlicy broccoli rabe, and melty provolone. It was heavenly. It was "order two of the same sandwich in one night because you'll need to keep tasting more" addictive. And it was the only time and place I'd ever come across this combination of flavors.

Now, years later, I'm all the wiser to know that this incredible combo is nothing out of the ordinary, but it still remains one of my favorites. This year for the Super Bowl, having no parties to attend, I decided that "now was the time!" to try to re-create this favorite for myself. 

A word of warning - you will want to eat more than one.

Pork and Broccoli Rabe Sandwich (from Genius Kitchen) 

Serves 4 (with leftover meat)

• For the pork:
  • 3 cloves chopped garlic
  • 2 T chopped rosemary
  • 3 T fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 T salt
  • 1/2 t ground pepper
  • 1 T olive oil
  • 3 lbs pork shoulder
• For the broccoli:
  • 1 lb brocoli rabe
  • Salt
  • 1 T olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 4 ciabatta loaves
• 8 slices provolone

Pre-heat your slow cooker to high.

Mix the first 6 ingredients in a bowl and massage over the pork roast.

Place in the slow cooker for 3-4 hours, or until the pork falls apart with a fork. Remove from the slow cooker and gently pull apart into chunks, slicing any large chunks as needed.

When the meat is done, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Place the broccoli rabe in the water for 3-5 minutes, drain and set aside.

In a large saute pan, heat the olive oil. Add the garlic and broccoli rabe and toss until the rabe is well cooked but not falling apart. You can also add some red chili flakes if you want! When done, turn off the heat and set aside.

Cut the rolls in half lengthwise, spread with a little butter, and toast under a griddle until golden. Immediately add 2 slices of provolone to one side, then top with the sliced pork and the broccoli. Sandwich with the other half of the roll and enjoy the best sandwich ever.