Hello Foodie Friends,
It is a time to celebrate and enjoy one of the most versatile and beloved food items – the sandwich.
National Sandwich Month is the perfect time to savor the deliciousness that can be found between two slices of bread. This festivity encourages people to appreciate the simplicity and ingenuity of this culinary creation that can be customized to suit individual preferences. Whether you’re a fan of traditional deli sandwiches, hearty subs, vegetarian options, or gourmet creations there’s a sandwich for every taste and occasion.
Sandwiches are not only tasty, but also convenient and easy to make. You can whip up a sandwich in minutes with just a few ingredients, or get creative and experiment with different breads, fillings, sauces, and toppings.
But do you know how it got its name and who invented it?
The origin of the sandwich can be traced back to the 18th century, when John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, was a prominent figure in British politics and society. He was also fond of gambling and card games, and often spent long hours at the gaming tables without taking a break for meals. According to one account, he once asked his servant to bring him some slices of cold meat between two pieces of bread, so that he could eat with one hand and continue playing with the other. This simple but ingenious invention soon became known as a sandwich, after his title.
However, some historians dispute this story and suggest that Montagu was not the first person to come up with the idea of putting food between bread because the concept of placing food between bread can be traced back to ancient civilizations. In ancient Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures, flatbreads were often used as a vessel to hold fillings such as meat, vegetables, and herbs. These early iterations can be considered some of the earliest forms of sandwiches.
The Industrial Revolution in the 19th century brought advancements in food production, transportation, and packaging. This made ingredients like preserved meats, canned goods, and factory-produced bread more readily available. Sandwiches became a convenient and portable meal option, especially for workers and travelers.
In the 20th century, sandwiches continued to evolve with the influence of different cultures and cuisines. The rise of fast-food chains, delis, and sandwich shops further popularized the concept. Iconic sandwiches like the hamburger, hot dog, submarine (sub) sandwich, and the Cuban sandwich gained prominence in various regions.
Sandwiches have been adapted and modified in countless ways around the world, incorporating local ingredients and flavors.
The sandwich’s history is a testament to its adaptability and universality. It has transitioned from a simple, functional meal to a culinary canvas that reflects cultural diversity and creativity.
To celebrate National Sandwich Month, I’ll share with you the 5 most popular Sandwiches and their perfect wine and beer pairings:
Grilled cheese Sandwich
A dry white wine with some acidity, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can help to cut through the richness of the cheese and bread. A dry sparkling wine, such as Prosecco or Cava, can also be a good choice for grilled cheese, as the bubbles help to cleanse the palate and keep the sandwich from feeling too heavy. Malty beers, such as amber ales or brown ales, can help to balance out the richness of the cheese.
Grilled chicken Sandwich
If the chicken is grilled with a light touch, go for a light-bodied wine like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. If the chicken is grilled with more char and flavor, go for a medium-bodied wine like a Chardonnay or Pinot Noir. If the sandwich has acidic toppings like tomatoes or pickles, you’ll want to choose a wine with some sweetness to balance it out. If the sandwich has spicy toppings like hot sauce or peppers, you’ll want to choose a wine with some fruitiness to cool it down. A pilsner is a light, crisp beer that is perfect for a hot day. The carbonation helps to cut through the richness of the chicken and the bread, and the light malt flavor complements the chicken’s natural flavor.
Turkey Club Sandwich
A light to medium-bodied wine will complement the flavors of the sandwich without overwhelming them. Rosé is a great choice for Turkey Club Sandwiches in the summer. It’s light and refreshing, and it has enough acidity to cut through the richness of the sandwich. Pinot Noir is a medium-bodied red wine that is often described as being “earthy” and “fruity.” It’s a good match for Turkey Club Sandwiches with a bit of char, such as those with grilled onions or peppers. A hoppy American Pale Ale with its citrusy and floral notes can complement the turkey and bacon, while the moderate bitterness can cut through the richness of the bacon and mayo. The maltiness of the beer can also enhance the overall sandwich experience.
Ham Sandwich
Pairing wine with a Ham Sandwich involves finding a wine that complements the flavors of the ham while providing a balanced and enjoyable pairing. A classic choice for many pairings, sparkling wine’s effervescence can cleanse the palate and cut through the richness of the ham and any accompanying condiments or cheeses. A nutty and malty brown ale can be a delightful match for a ham sandwich. The maltiness of the beer can harmonize with the flavors of the ham and any accompanying condiments. A crisp and clean pilsner can be an excellent choice for a ham sandwich. Its mild hop bitterness and refreshing quality can cut through the saltiness of the ham and provide a great balance.
BLT Sandwich
A crisp and zesty Sauvignon Blanc can work well with the fresh flavors of the lettuce and tomato. Its citrusy notes and acidity can balance the richness of the bacon. An unoaked Chardonnay with its clean, bright fruit flavors can be a good match for a BLT. Look for one with moderate acidity to enhance the sandwich’s flavors. A wheat beer’s light, slightly fruity, and sometimes spiced character can complement the freshness of the lettuce and tomato. The beer’s effervescence can cleanse the palate and enhance the overall experience. A crisp and clean pilsner can be an excellent choice for a BLT sandwich. Its mild hop bitterness and refreshing quality can cut through the saltiness of the bacon and provide a great balance to the sandwich’s flavors.
So, the next time you assemble your favorite ingredients between two slices of bread, remember that you’re crafting more than just a meal – you’re creating a masterpiece.
Happy National Sandwich Month!
Until we eat (and drink) again…
I send you Delicious Wishes, xo
Denise
