What is in a Submarine Sandwich?
When it comes to sandwiches, few are as iconic and beloved as the submarine sandwich, also known as a sub or a hoagie. This long, filling-packed bread creation has been a staple of many cultures for decades, with various regional twists and customizations. So, what’s really inside a submarine sandwich? Let’s dive in and find out.
The Classic Components
A traditional submarine sandwich typically consists of:
- Bread: A crusty, chewy roll, often Italian-style, which provides the foundation for the sandwich.
- Meat: Turkey, ham, or roast beef are popular choices, with some places offering vegetarian options like avocado or grilled portobello mushrooms.
- Cheese: Mozzarella, Swiss, or Provolone are common cheeses used to add creaminess and flavor.
- Veggies: Lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions are commonly used, with some subs featuring additional veggies like bell peppers or julienne-cut carrots.
Regional Variations and Customizations
While the classic components provide a solid foundation, submarine sandwiches are highly customizable and can vary greatly depending on the region or personal preferences. Some popular variations include:
- Italian-Style Subs: These often feature salami, pepperoni, prosciutto, or mortadella for added flavor and texture.
- Philly-Style Cheesesteak Subs: A twist on the classic, these subs replace the bread with a hoagie roll and feature thinly sliced ribeye or strip steak cooked with Sauteed onions and bell peppers.
- Gyro-Style Subs: Inspired by the Greek dish, these subs often feature lamb or beef gyro meat, topped with tzatziki sauce and cucumber slices.
- Meatball Subs: A hearty option, meatball subs feature homemade meatballs smothered in marinara sauce and melted provolone cheese.
Beverages and Toppings
Submarine sandwiches often come with a range of beverages and toppings to enhance the dining experience:
- Drinks: Soft drinks, iced tea, coffee, or even craft beer might be offered to accompany your sub.
- Toppings: In addition to veggies, popular toppings include pickles, banana peppers, olive oil, and anchovies.
- Sauces: Mustard, mayo, and hot sauce can add an extra layer of flavor to your sub.
A Quick Comparison of Popular Submarine Sandwich Options
Here’s a summary of some popular submarine sandwich options:
| Sandwich | Key Ingredients | Bread | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Sub | Turkey, Ham, Lettuce, Tomato, Cheese | Italian-style roll | USA (East Coast) |
| Philly-Style Cheesesteak | Thinly sliced Ribeye, Onions, Bell Peppers | Hoagie roll | USA (Philadelphia) |
| Italian-Style Sub | Salami, Pepperoni, Prosciutto, Mozzarella | Italian-style roll | USA (Northeast) |
| Meatball Sub | Homemade Meatballs, Marinara Sauce, Provolone Cheese | Italian-style roll | Italy/USA |
Conclusion
As you can see, submarine sandwiches offer a wide range of customization options, from classic ingredients to regional twists and variations. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurer, there’s a sub out there to suit your taste buds. So the next time you’re wondering what’s in a submarine sandwich, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to build your perfect sub and indulge in the delicious, filling-packed world of sub sandwiches!
