Paul McCartney’s “Paulwich” Vegetarian Bagel Sandwich Copycat Recipe

The “Paulwich” is Paul McCartney’s famous vegetarian bagel sandwich, carefully layered for the perfect bite. Using a clever bagel-slicing technique, each sandwich is built with spreads, crisp veggies, and cheese, separated by lettuce “barriers” to keep the layers intact.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

This sandwich is flavorful, fun to eat, and vegetarian-friendly. The combination of Marmite, hummus, creamy cheese, pickles, tomato, honey mustard, and fresh lettuce delivers umami, tang, and crunch in every bite. The triple-layer bagel ensures the perfect balance of fillings without sogginess.

What Is the Dish?

A layered vegetarian bagel sandwich with Marmite, hummus, cheese, vegetables, honey mustard, and crisp lettuce, carefully structured using a three-slice bagel technique for optimal texture and bite.

Cooking Tips

• Slice the bagel into three horizontal layers to create thinner, manageable sandwich layers.
• Use lettuce as a barrier to prevent wet ingredients from leaking through the bagel hole.
• Thinly slice tomatoes and pickles for even layering and better stacking.
• Press gently after assembling to help layers adhere without squashing the fillings.
• Experiment with Havarti or sharp Cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes, assemble partially and store components separately. Add lettuce and top bagel slice just before serving.

Can I Use Other Bagels?

Yes, any sturdy bagel such as whole wheat, multigrain, or plain works well.

Can I Add Protein?

Yes, include cooked egg slices or tempeh for extra protein.

Can I Make It Vegan?

Use vegan cheese and replace Marmite with a vegan-friendly spread or yeast extract.

Can I Serve It Open-Faced?

Yes, for a simpler version, omit the top slice and serve open-faced with layers intact.

How to Store

Store assembled Paulwich in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep wet ingredients (hummus, Marmite, honey mustard) separate if possible to prevent the bagel from becoming soggy.

How to Freeze

This sandwich is not recommended for freezing fully assembled, as bagels and vegetables lose texture. Components such as bagels and cheese can be frozen separately for up to 1 month. Thaw fully before assembly.

Ingredients

• 1 bagel, sliced horizontally into 3 thin slabs
• Marmite, for the base
• Hummus, for layering
• Cheese: Havarti or sharp Cheddar, sliced
• Tomato, thinly sliced
• Pickles, thinly sliced
• Honey mustard, to taste
• Crisp lettuce leaves (e.g., romaine or iceberg)

How to Make The Paul-Which

1. Slice the bagel into three horizontal slabs. Save or discard the thick center core.
2. Spread Marmite on the bottom slice.
3. Place a layer of lettuce on top of Marmite to prevent leaks.
4. Spread hummus, then layer cheese, tomato slices, and pickles.
5. Add another lettuce layer to protect the fillings.
6. Smear honey mustard on the top slice, place on sandwich, and press gently.
7. Slice carefully and enjoy immediately.