What's In New York's Classic Chopped Cheese Bodega Sandwich?

In certain parts of New York City, chopped cheese is bodega fare that’s been around for ages. A bodega is a convenience store with a small deli counter where you order sandwiches.

A chopped cheese is made with finely chopped ground beef, American cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and mayo or ketchup, served on a round roll or hero.

While the chopped cheese is sometimes compared to the Philly cheesesteak, it’s a unique sandwich with a history closely connected

to East Harlem’s Blue Sky Deli.

To replicate a chopped cheese, crumble up a burger patty and season it with a little salt and pepper or Adobo. Add melted American cheese to the beef and spoon it onto the bread.