The Cannibal Sandwich Wisconsin S Most Polarizing Holiday Tradition

If you’re from Wisconsin or have resided in the state for an extended period of time, you’re likely familiar with the cannibal sandwich. For many, it’s a holiday staple, while others cringe at the very thought of it. And then there’s the Wisconsin Department of Health, which is completely against the concoction. Let’s take a closer look at this longtime holiday tradition.

A typical Wisconsin Christmas includes snowy sights, twinkling lights, and…

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…for many, a cannibal sandwich (or two). Also known as a tiger meat sandwich, the holiday favorite consists of raw beef and raw onions served on rye bread.

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Though it’s unknown exactly where the dish came from, many believe it has German roots and was concocted by immigrants who settled in southeastern Wisconsin.

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And while the cannibal sandwich may seem strange to outsiders, it’s actually very similar to the popular French dish, steak tartare.

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Every Christmas season, the Wisconsin Department of Health urges residents to ditch the traditional holiday sandwich since consuming raw meat can lead to food-borne illness.

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Of course, that hasn’t stopped Wisconsinites from indulging on the raw meat sandwich. Every holiday season, Bunzel’s Meat Market in Milwaukee sells about 1,200 pounds of ground sirloin for the specialty sandwiches!

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According to many, the key to a great tasting cannibal sandwich is the meat. Using pre-packaged ground beef from the grocery store is a no-no.

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Fresh meat from a local butcher is the way to go. What’s more, it should be consumed the same day it’s purchased. The goal is to use the freshest, leanest beef possible. (Of course, there’s always a risk when consuming raw meat.)

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So, were you already familiar with this holiday tradition? Do you eat a cannibal sandwich during the holiday season? Tell us in the comments section.