### Delectable Spanish Bikini Sandwich Recipe **Author:** Webb Henrietta | Food Researcher --- In Barcelona and other Catalonian towns in Spain, when you order a bikini, you receive a pressed toasted sandwich typically filled with ham and cheese. Chef Ryan Bartlow from Ernesto's in New York City has put his own twist on this classic with his Bikini Hemingway recipe. This version includes sliced poached shrimp and Txistorra sausage topped with Mahon cheese, all pressed into a toasty sandwich and finished off with a drizzle of honey for a delightful blend of flavors. Easily scalable, prepare a batch of these sandwiches for your next Spanish cocktail and tapas soirée. **FAQs** 1. **What is Pan de Cristal?** Hailing from the Catalan region, Pan de Cristal, also known as "glass bread," is distinguished by its delightfully crisp crust and airy crumb. 2. **What is Txistorra Sausage?** Txistorra sausage, a variety of Spanish chorizo, is crafted from a mix of pork (and sometimes beef) seasoned with garlic and paprika. If you can't find it pre-made, you can create a paste by blending it yourself. **Pro Tips** Pressing the sandwich while toasting is crucial for achieving the ideal texture. A heavy skillet or a panini press can be used for this. Furthermore, this recipe calls for poached shrimp, which you can prepare yourself by following simple steps. **Ingredients:** - 1 (8-ounce) pan de cristal loaf or ciabatta loaf - 1/3 cup (2 1/2 ounces) Txistorra sausage spread or Spanish chorizo - 3 medium (21/25 count) shrimp (2 ounces total), peeled, deveined, and poached - 1 1/2 ounces Mahon cheese, thinly sliced - 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling - Honey - Flaky sea salt **Directions:** 1. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Cut the bread loaf horizontally and trim it into 8- x 3-inch slices. Spread the sausage on the bottom bread slice, layer the sliced shrimp, Mahon cheese, and the top bread slice. 2. Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof sauté pan. Place the sandwich in the pan, then press it down with a heavy skillet. Toast one side until golden (4 to 5 minutes), then flip and toast for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. 3. Transfer the pan to the oven and bake until heated through and the cheese is melted (about 5 minutes). Let the sandwich rest, then slice it into 4 pieces. Finally, drizzle with honey and olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and serve. This Bikini Hemingway will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Spain with its flavorful combination of ingredients. Enjoy this savory delight at your next gathering and watch it disappear in no time.