If you don’t like a PB&J, you’re one of two things: A liar, or an alien. Or you have a peanut allergy. So that’s three things — but, nonetheless, I am gobsmacked by the bounty of breads and spreads that Michigan State has leading up to their NCAA tournament game.
I’m in awe of Michigan State’s March Madness PB&J station
What a spread of spreads.
James Dator has been covering a wide range of sports for SB Nation for over a decade, with a special focus on the NFL.
It all starts with the bread. In this case we can ignore the whole wheat stuff. Whole wheat has its place, just not in this sandwich. I appreciate the thick-cut white loaf, that doesn’t look like your standard bagged bread. It has enough imperfections that I’m lead to believe this is an artisanal crafted loaf.
Then we have the spreads. So that means ...
SPREAD POWER RANKINGS
1. Peanut butter: Simple. Classic. Goes with everything.
2. Nutella: Good on its own, or in a combo. Pairs well with peanut butter, but if you do Nutella and jelly you’re a monster.
3. Grape Jelly: I didn’t grow up with grape jelly, but I can appreciate it’s awesomeness in this sandwich combo.
4. Almond butter: I know it’s the fancy brother of peanut, and a lot better — but I always feel guilty using it in a PB&J application, even if it was free.
5. Cherry jam: This is a thick, conserve-esque spread. In my experience most of the cherry jam I’ve had is tart, bordering on almost sour. It’s a delightful experience on toast, but I don’t like it in this sandwich format.
6. Honey: The only thing I trust less than someone who hates PB&J is a PB and honey kid. It’s a sandwich your parents made when they wanted to teach you lessons about how the world is harsh and that sometimes you need to settle. It soaks into the bread much too quickly and crystallizes. Honey is good. Sandwich honey is bad.
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