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Italian Muffuletta Sandwich Savory and Flavorful Treat

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To create a delicious Muffuletta sandwich, you will need these key ingredients: - 1 large round loaf of Sicilian bread - 1 cup green olives, pitted and finely chopped - 1 cup black olives, pitted and finely chopped - 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, thinly sliced - 1/2 cup giardiniera (Italian pickled vegetables), finely chopped - 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced - 1/2 cup provolone cheese, thinly sliced - 1/2 cup salami, thinly sliced - 1/2 cup ham, thinly sliced - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (optional) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish For an extra kick, consider adding these optional items: - Spicy peppers for heat - Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme - Capers for a briny taste Choosing high-quality ingredients is vital for the best flavor. - Bread: Use fresh Sicilian bread. A crusty outside and soft inside work best. - Olives: Opt for good-quality, pitted olives. Their flavor makes a big difference. - Meats and Cheese: Always choose fresh, deli-style salami and ham. For cheese, go for creamy mozzarella and sharp provolone. These choices will elevate your Muffuletta and make it a true delight. Enjoy the rich flavors and textures! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, gather your ingredients. You will need green olives, black olives, roasted red peppers, and giardiniera. Chop the green and black olives finely. Then, slice the roasted red peppers thinly. Use a knife to chop the giardiniera. In a bowl, mix these ingredients together. Add extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar if you want extra flavor. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir well and let it sit for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend nicely. Next, take your large round loaf of Sicilian bread. Use a serrated knife to cut the loaf in half horizontally. Be careful! You want to keep the crust intact. Now, gently hollow out the soft inside of the bread. Make sure not to poke through the crust. This step is key to keeping your sandwich from getting soggy later. Now it’s time to build your sandwich. Start with the bottom half of the bread. Place the salami down first, spreading it evenly. Next, layer the ham on top of the salami. After that, add the thin slices of mozzarella and provolone cheese. Finally, spoon the marinated olive salad over the cheese. Spread it out so every bite is full of flavor. Carefully place the top half of the bread back on. Press down gently to compact the layers. This helps all the flavors meld together. Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap. Then, put a heavy skillet or cutting board on top. This will compress it even more. Put the sandwich in the fridge for at least one hour. For the best taste, let it sit overnight. When you are ready to serve, unwrap the sandwich. Use a sharp knife to slice it into wedges or halves. This makes it easy to share with friends. For a nice touch, garnish the top with fresh basil leaves. Serve on a rustic wooden board for a great presentation. You can also add a small bowl of extra olive salad for dipping. Scatter a few whole olives around the plate for color. Enjoy your delicious Muffuletta! To keep your bread crisp, hollow out the inside. This step creates a space for filling but keeps moisture away from the crust. Use a serrated knife for clean cuts. Remember, less bread inside means less sogginess. Let the olive salad marinate for at least 30 minutes. This time lets the flavors blend well. For the best taste, try marinating it for an hour or even overnight. The longer it sits, the more lively the taste becomes. When you slice the sandwich, use a sharp serrated knife. This tool helps prevent squishing the layers. Cut the sandwich into wedges for easy sharing. Serve on a wooden board for a rustic look. Place a small bowl of extra olive salad alongside for dipping. Fresh basil leaves on top add color and a nice touch. Pro Tips Choose the Right Bread: A sturdy Sicilian loaf is ideal for holding all the ingredients without becoming soggy. Ensure it has a good crust to prevent moisture from seeping in. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the olive salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better. This enhances the flavors and ensures a more delicious sandwich. Layer Smartly: When layering, start with the meats, followed by cheeses, and then the olive salad. This helps keep the sandwich structure intact and prevents the bread from getting soggy. Pressure for Perfection: After assembling, wrap the sandwich tightly and place a heavy object on it while refrigerating. This compacts the layers and melds the flavors beautifully. {{image_4}} If you want a meat-free Muffuletta, you can easily swap out the meats. Use grilled vegetables like zucchini and eggplant for a smoky taste. You can also add more olives for a briny kick. Layer in some fresh spinach or arugula for crunch. This version gives you a fresh and bright sandwich. Muffuletta is famous in New Orleans. They often use a mix of local meats and cheeses. You might find spicy capicola or even shrimp added. The olive salad can be spicier with more peppers. Each region has its take on this classic, making it fun to explore. You can customize your Muffuletta with various ingredients. Try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a twist. You can also add artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Experiment with herbs, such as oregano or thyme, for a unique touch. The choices are endless, so let your taste guide you! To keep your Muffuletta fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This helps prevent drying out. You can also use aluminum foil for extra protection. If you have smaller pieces, place them in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors intact and the bread soft. In the fridge, a Muffuletta can last for about 3 days. The flavors will get better as they sit. However, the bread may soften over time. For the best taste, try to eat it within this time. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying leftovers. You can freeze the Muffuletta for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. This method prevents freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Enjoy it cold or warm it up briefly in the oven. I use a large round loaf of Sicilian bread. It has a thick crust and soft inside. This bread holds up well with all the tasty fillings. It keeps the sandwich from getting soggy. You can also try other sturdy breads, but Sicilian is classic. Yes, you can make this sandwich in advance. I recommend making it a few hours before serving. For the best taste, prepare it the night before. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps the flavors blend and taste even better. Muffuletta sandwiches go well with many sides. I love serving them with a simple salad. A light pasta salad also works great. You can add potato chips for crunch or pickles for tang. Whole olives on the side are a nice touch too. A Muffuletta sandwich stays fresh in the fridge for about three days. Just keep it wrapped tightly. After three days, the bread may get a bit stale. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Making an Italian Muffuletta Sandwich is fun and tasty. We covered the must-have ingredients, step-by-step prep, and handy tips. Remember, quality ingredients matter for the best flavor. Don't forget to try variations and store any leftovers properly. These sandwiches are great to share or save for later. Enjoy creating your Muffuletta masterpiece with friends and family!

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Are you ready to dive into the world of Italian flavors? The Muffuletta sandwich is a savory delight loaded with layers of cured meats and a famous olive salad. This article will guide you through every step to create this mouthwatering treat. I’ll share tips, tricks, and variations to suit your taste. Let’s make this tasty sandwich a star at your next meal!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of tangy olives, savory meats, and creamy cheeses creates an explosion of flavors in every bite.
  2. Perfect for Sharing: This sandwich is ideal for gatherings, easily cut into wedges for everyone to enjoy.
  3. Make-Ahead Convenience: It gets even better when made in advance, allowing the flavors to meld overnight.
  4. Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out or add your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile dish for all tastes.

Ingredients

List of Essential Ingredients for Italian Muffuletta Sandwich

To create a delicious Muffuletta sandwich, you will need these key ingredients:

– 1 large round loaf of Sicilian bread

– 1 cup green olives, pitted and finely chopped

– 1 cup black olives, pitted and finely chopped

– 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, thinly sliced

– 1/2 cup giardiniera (Italian pickled vegetables), finely chopped

– 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced

– 1/2 cup provolone cheese, thinly sliced

– 1/2 cup salami, thinly sliced

– 1/2 cup ham, thinly sliced

– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (optional)

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Optional Ingredients for Flavor Enhancement

For an extra kick, consider adding these optional items:

– Spicy peppers for heat

– Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme

– Capers for a briny taste

Recommended Quality of Ingredients

Choosing high-quality ingredients is vital for the best flavor.

– Bread: Use fresh Sicilian bread. A crusty outside and soft inside work best.

– Olives: Opt for good-quality, pitted olives. Their flavor makes a big difference.

– Meats and Cheese: Always choose fresh, deli-style salami and ham. For cheese, go for creamy mozzarella and sharp provolone.

These choices will elevate your Muffuletta and make it a true delight. Enjoy the rich flavors and textures!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the Olive Salad

First, gather your ingredients. You will need green olives, black olives, roasted red peppers, and giardiniera. Chop the green and black olives finely. Then, slice the roasted red peppers thinly. Use a knife to chop the giardiniera. In a bowl, mix these ingredients together. Add extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar if you want extra flavor. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir well and let it sit for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend nicely.

Slicing and Hollowing Out the Sicilian Bread

Next, take your large round loaf of Sicilian bread. Use a serrated knife to cut the loaf in half horizontally. Be careful! You want to keep the crust intact. Now, gently hollow out the soft inside of the bread. Make sure not to poke through the crust. This step is key to keeping your sandwich from getting soggy later.

Layering the Sandwich Components

Now it’s time to build your sandwich. Start with the bottom half of the bread. Place the salami down first, spreading it evenly. Next, layer the ham on top of the salami. After that, add the thin slices of mozzarella and provolone cheese. Finally, spoon the marinated olive salad over the cheese. Spread it out so every bite is full of flavor.

Compressing and Refrigerating the Sandwich

Carefully place the top half of the bread back on. Press down gently to compact the layers. This helps all the flavors meld together. Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap. Then, put a heavy skillet or cutting board on top. This will compress it even more. Put the sandwich in the fridge for at least one hour. For the best taste, let it sit overnight.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When you are ready to serve, unwrap the sandwich. Use a sharp knife to slice it into wedges or halves. This makes it easy to share with friends. For a nice touch, garnish the top with fresh basil leaves. Serve on a rustic wooden board for a great presentation. You can also add a small bowl of extra olive salad for dipping. Scatter a few whole olives around the plate for color. Enjoy your delicious Muffuletta!

Tips & Tricks

How to Prevent Soggy Bread

To keep your bread crisp, hollow out the inside. This step creates a space for filling but keeps moisture away from the crust. Use a serrated knife for clean cuts. Remember, less bread inside means less sogginess.

Optimal Marinating Time for Flavor

Let the olive salad marinate for at least 30 minutes. This time lets the flavors blend well. For the best taste, try marinating it for an hour or even overnight. The longer it sits, the more lively the taste becomes.

Best Practices for Slicing and Serving

When you slice the sandwich, use a sharp serrated knife. This tool helps prevent squishing the layers. Cut the sandwich into wedges for easy sharing. Serve on a wooden board for a rustic look. Place a small bowl of extra olive salad alongside for dipping. Fresh basil leaves on top add color and a nice touch.

Pro Tips

  1. Choose the Right Bread: A sturdy Sicilian loaf is ideal for holding all the ingredients without becoming soggy. Ensure it has a good crust to prevent moisture from seeping in.
  2. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the olive salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better. This enhances the flavors and ensures a more delicious sandwich.
  3. Layer Smartly: When layering, start with the meats, followed by cheeses, and then the olive salad. This helps keep the sandwich structure intact and prevents the bread from getting soggy.
  4. Pressure for Perfection: After assembling, wrap the sandwich tightly and place a heavy object on it while refrigerating. This compacts the layers and melds the flavors beautifully.

Variations

Vegetarian Versions of Muffuletta Sandwich

If you want a meat-free Muffuletta, you can easily swap out the meats. Use grilled vegetables like zucchini and eggplant for a smoky taste. You can also add more olives for a briny kick. Layer in some fresh spinach or arugula for crunch. This version gives you a fresh and bright sandwich.

Regional Variations (e.g., New Orleans Style)

Muffuletta is famous in New Orleans. They often use a mix of local meats and cheeses. You might find spicy capicola or even shrimp added. The olive salad can be spicier with more peppers. Each region has its take on this classic, making it fun to explore.

Alternative Ingredients for Customization

You can customize your Muffuletta with various ingredients. Try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a twist. You can also add artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Experiment with herbs, such as oregano or thyme, for a unique touch. The choices are endless, so let your taste guide you!

Storage Info

Best Ways to Store Leftover Muffuletta

To keep your Muffuletta fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This helps prevent drying out. You can also use aluminum foil for extra protection. If you have smaller pieces, place them in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors intact and the bread soft.

Recommended Storage Duration in the Fridge

In the fridge, a Muffuletta can last for about 3 days. The flavors will get better as they sit. However, the bread may soften over time. For the best taste, try to eat it within this time. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying leftovers.

Freezing the Sandwich: Tips and Guidelines

You can freeze the Muffuletta for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. This method prevents freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Enjoy it cold or warm it up briefly in the oven.

FAQs

What type of bread is best for Muffuletta Sandwich?

I use a large round loaf of Sicilian bread. It has a thick crust and soft inside. This bread holds up well with all the tasty fillings. It keeps the sandwich from getting soggy. You can also try other sturdy breads, but Sicilian is classic.

Can I make Muffuletta Sandwich ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this sandwich in advance. I recommend making it a few hours before serving. For the best taste, prepare it the night before. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps the flavors blend and taste even better.

What sides pair well with an Italian Muffuletta Sandwich?

Muffuletta sandwiches go well with many sides. I love serving them with a simple salad. A light pasta salad also works great. You can add potato chips for crunch or pickles for tang. Whole olives on the side are a nice touch too.

How long can a Muffuletta Sandwich last in the refrigerator?

A Muffuletta sandwich stays fresh in the fridge for about three days. Just keep it wrapped tightly. After three days, the bread may get a bit stale. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Making an Italian Muffuletta Sandwich is fun and tasty. We covered the must-have ingredients, step-by-step prep, and handy tips. Remember, quality ingredients matter for the best flavor. Don’t forget to try variations and store any leftovers properly. These sandwiches are great to share or save for later. Enjoy creating your Muffuletta masterpiece with friends and famil

To create a delicious Muffuletta sandwich, you will need these key ingredients: - 1 large round loaf of Sicilian bread - 1 cup green olives, pitted and finely chopped - 1 cup black olives, pitted and finely chopped - 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, thinly sliced - 1/2 cup giardiniera (Italian pickled vegetables), finely chopped - 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced - 1/2 cup provolone cheese, thinly sliced - 1/2 cup salami, thinly sliced - 1/2 cup ham, thinly sliced - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (optional) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish For an extra kick, consider adding these optional items: - Spicy peppers for heat - Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme - Capers for a briny taste Choosing high-quality ingredients is vital for the best flavor. - Bread: Use fresh Sicilian bread. A crusty outside and soft inside work best. - Olives: Opt for good-quality, pitted olives. Their flavor makes a big difference. - Meats and Cheese: Always choose fresh, deli-style salami and ham. For cheese, go for creamy mozzarella and sharp provolone. These choices will elevate your Muffuletta and make it a true delight. Enjoy the rich flavors and textures! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, gather your ingredients. You will need green olives, black olives, roasted red peppers, and giardiniera. Chop the green and black olives finely. Then, slice the roasted red peppers thinly. Use a knife to chop the giardiniera. In a bowl, mix these ingredients together. Add extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar if you want extra flavor. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir well and let it sit for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend nicely. Next, take your large round loaf of Sicilian bread. Use a serrated knife to cut the loaf in half horizontally. Be careful! You want to keep the crust intact. Now, gently hollow out the soft inside of the bread. Make sure not to poke through the crust. This step is key to keeping your sandwich from getting soggy later. Now it’s time to build your sandwich. Start with the bottom half of the bread. Place the salami down first, spreading it evenly. Next, layer the ham on top of the salami. After that, add the thin slices of mozzarella and provolone cheese. Finally, spoon the marinated olive salad over the cheese. Spread it out so every bite is full of flavor. Carefully place the top half of the bread back on. Press down gently to compact the layers. This helps all the flavors meld together. Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap. Then, put a heavy skillet or cutting board on top. This will compress it even more. Put the sandwich in the fridge for at least one hour. For the best taste, let it sit overnight. When you are ready to serve, unwrap the sandwich. Use a sharp knife to slice it into wedges or halves. This makes it easy to share with friends. For a nice touch, garnish the top with fresh basil leaves. Serve on a rustic wooden board for a great presentation. You can also add a small bowl of extra olive salad for dipping. Scatter a few whole olives around the plate for color. Enjoy your delicious Muffuletta! To keep your bread crisp, hollow out the inside. This step creates a space for filling but keeps moisture away from the crust. Use a serrated knife for clean cuts. Remember, less bread inside means less sogginess. Let the olive salad marinate for at least 30 minutes. This time lets the flavors blend well. For the best taste, try marinating it for an hour or even overnight. The longer it sits, the more lively the taste becomes. When you slice the sandwich, use a sharp serrated knife. This tool helps prevent squishing the layers. Cut the sandwich into wedges for easy sharing. Serve on a wooden board for a rustic look. Place a small bowl of extra olive salad alongside for dipping. Fresh basil leaves on top add color and a nice touch. Pro Tips Choose the Right Bread: A sturdy Sicilian loaf is ideal for holding all the ingredients without becoming soggy. Ensure it has a good crust to prevent moisture from seeping in. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the olive salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better. This enhances the flavors and ensures a more delicious sandwich. Layer Smartly: When layering, start with the meats, followed by cheeses, and then the olive salad. This helps keep the sandwich structure intact and prevents the bread from getting soggy. Pressure for Perfection: After assembling, wrap the sandwich tightly and place a heavy object on it while refrigerating. This compacts the layers and melds the flavors beautifully. {{image_4}} If you want a meat-free Muffuletta, you can easily swap out the meats. Use grilled vegetables like zucchini and eggplant for a smoky taste. You can also add more olives for a briny kick. Layer in some fresh spinach or arugula for crunch. This version gives you a fresh and bright sandwich. Muffuletta is famous in New Orleans. They often use a mix of local meats and cheeses. You might find spicy capicola or even shrimp added. The olive salad can be spicier with more peppers. Each region has its take on this classic, making it fun to explore. You can customize your Muffuletta with various ingredients. Try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a twist. You can also add artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Experiment with herbs, such as oregano or thyme, for a unique touch. The choices are endless, so let your taste guide you! To keep your Muffuletta fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This helps prevent drying out. You can also use aluminum foil for extra protection. If you have smaller pieces, place them in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors intact and the bread soft. In the fridge, a Muffuletta can last for about 3 days. The flavors will get better as they sit. However, the bread may soften over time. For the best taste, try to eat it within this time. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying leftovers. You can freeze the Muffuletta for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. This method prevents freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Enjoy it cold or warm it up briefly in the oven. I use a large round loaf of Sicilian bread. It has a thick crust and soft inside. This bread holds up well with all the tasty fillings. It keeps the sandwich from getting soggy. You can also try other sturdy breads, but Sicilian is classic. Yes, you can make this sandwich in advance. I recommend making it a few hours before serving. For the best taste, prepare it the night before. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps the flavors blend and taste even better. Muffuletta sandwiches go well with many sides. I love serving them with a simple salad. A light pasta salad also works great. You can add potato chips for crunch or pickles for tang. Whole olives on the side are a nice touch too. A Muffuletta sandwich stays fresh in the fridge for about three days. Just keep it wrapped tightly. After three days, the bread may get a bit stale. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Making an Italian Muffuletta Sandwich is fun and tasty. We covered the must-have ingredients, step-by-step prep, and handy tips. Remember, quality ingredients matter for the best flavor. Don't forget to try variations and store any leftovers properly. These sandwiches are great to share or save for later. Enjoy creating your Muffuletta masterpiece with friends and family!

Mouthwatering Italian Muffuletta Sandwich

A delicious Italian sandwich featuring layers of meats, cheeses, and a zesty olive salad.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large round loaf Sicilian bread
  • 1 cup green olives, pitted and finely chopped
  • 1 cup black olives, pitted and finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup giardiniera, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup provolone cheese, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup salami, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup ham, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (optional)
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • for garnish fresh basil leaves

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Olive Salad: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped green and black olives, sliced roasted red peppers, and chopped giardiniera. Drizzle the mixture with extra virgin olive oil and, if desired, the red wine vinegar for an added zesty flavor. Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine, then let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature to enhance the flavors.
  • Slice the Bread: Using a serrated bread knife, carefully slice the round loaf of Sicilian bread in half horizontally to create a top and bottom. Gently hollow out the soft interior of the bread from the center (be careful not to puncture the crust) to create a small cavity. This step is crucial to help prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy.
  • Layer the Sandwich: Begin building your sandwich by layering the bottom half of the bread. Start with the salami followed by the ham, ensuring an even distribution. Next, add the thin slices of mozzarella and provolone cheese. Finally, spoon the marinated olive salad over the cheese layers, ensuring that it is evenly spread.
  • Top It Off: Carefully place the top half of the bread back onto the sandwich. Press down gently to compact the layers, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
  • Wrap and Refrigerate: Tightly wrap the entire sandwich in plastic wrap to keep the moisture in. Place a heavy skillet or a cutting board on top to compress the sandwich further, aiding the melding of flavors. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but for an even better flavor profile, leave it overnight.
  • Serve: When ready to serve, unwrap the sandwich and slice it into wedges or halves for easy sharing. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves on top for a splash of color and freshness.

Notes

For best flavor, refrigerate overnight.
Keyword Italian, muffuletta, olive salad, sandwich

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