Why are they called submarine sandwiches?

Why Are They Called Submarine Sandwiches?

The Submarine sandwich, also known as a sub, grinder, or hoagie, has been a beloved part of many cuisines for decades. But have you ever wondered why these tasty creations are called submarine sandwiches in the first place?

Origin of the Name

The name "submarine sandwich" was first used in the 1920s by an Italian-American deli owner in Philadelphia named Oscar Goldman. According to legend, Goldman named his sandwiches after the fact that the long, slim loaves of bread looked like submarines, or submarine sandwiches. This clever and memorable name stuck, and the rest is history!

Early Years

Prior to Goldman’s invention, Italian immigrants brought their own culinary traditions with them to America. They introduced the concept of filling bread with cured meats, cheeses, and vegetables, which became known as a "hero sandwich" or "hoagie". These early subs were made with long, crusty Italian bread rolls and were often served to dockworkers and other blue-collar workers in Philadelphia and other ports.

The Perfect Combination

So, what made Goldman’s submarine sandwich stand out from the crowd? For starters, his unique combination of ingredients became a staple of the American culinary landscape. Boiled ham, salami, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and Italian dressing, all piled high on a crispy sub roll, made for a flavorful and satisfying meal that quickly became popular among locals and commuters alike.

Growth and Evolution

As the decades passed, the submarine sandwich gained widespread popularity across America. Different regions and restaurants added their own twists, experimenting with various meats, cheeses, and condiments. The classic Italian ingredients gave way to BLTs, Reubens, and grilled chicken subs, and regional specialties like Californian avocado subs, Texas-style BBQ subs, and New England lobster subs emerged.

Global Recognition

The submarine sandwich has become an integral part of global cuisine, with variations popping up on menus from Tokyo to Rome, and from Moscow to Cape Town. Each region puts its own unique spin on the classic ingredients, from Korean kimchi subs to Middle Eastern falafel subs.

Facts and Figures

• According to the National Restaurant Association, submarine sandwiches are among the top 10 most popular items on menus across America.
• The average American consumes approximately 3 submarine sandwiches per month.
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• Submarine sandwiches are one of the most versatile meals, with over 200 possible combinations of ingredients and fillings.

Conclusion

So, the next time you bite into a crispy sub roll, surrounded by your favorite fillings, remember the humble origins of this beloved sandwich. Whether you’re a born-and-bred Philadelphian or a transplant from around the world, the submarine sandwich has something to offer everyone. So go ahead, indulge in the classic combination, try a regional twist, or invent your own unique flavors – after all, it’s your submarine sandwich!

Key Takeaways:

• The name "submarine sandwich" originated from an Italian-American deli owner in Philadelphia, Oscar Goldman, in the 1920s.
• Early submarine sandwiches were made with long, crusty Italian bread rolls and featured ingredients like boiled ham, salami, provolone cheese, and Italian dressing.
• Today, there are countless regional variations and global twists on the classic submarine sandwich.

Regional Submarine Sandwich Guide:

Create Your Own Submarine Sandwich!

• Start with a crispy sub roll and your choice of meats: ham, turkey, roast beef, or chicken
• Add some veggies: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, or bell peppers
• Choose your cheeses: cheddar, Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella
• Don’t forget the sauces: mayonnaise, mustard, and Italian dressing
• Top it off with some heat: hot peppers or sriracha
• Go ahead, get creative – and enjoy your custom-made submarine sandwich!