Yep, we are back at “Art’s World” talking about food, specifically the good old fashioned sandwich and some of the regional favorites that have become a staple almost everywhere. Now here we are not talking about the usual ham and cheese, BLT, peanut butter and jelly or baloney which all enjoyed as kids. We are talking more about sandwiches that got their start in various areas of the country but have become loved, and copied, all over the country.
There are twenty five on this list I came across, but I will only give you ten or twelve. The rest you can check out in the link I will put up at the end of this feature. Get hungry and enjoy.
Pimento Sandwich – I first came across this southern treat when I was stationed in South Carolina. The Pimento sandwich, a simple hot sandwich with delicious pimento cheese between two slices of buttered Texas toast puts every other grilled cheese to shame. Try it you’ll like it.
Muffaletta – This popular sandwich came by way of New Orleans. It is basically an Italian style sandwich of meats and cheeses with an olive oil like salad, piled high on Sicilian sesame seed bread. You better have an appetite for this one.
The Cuban – I had never had one until I moved top Florida and after the first one at a place in Tampa it stole my heart. The mix of sliced or pulled pork, ham, cheese, mustard, and homemade pickles on toasted and pressed Cuban bread is pure sandwich heaven.
Beef on a Weck – This beauty originated in western New York around the Buffalo area and it is delicious. It is basically the answer to the French dip. It is roast beef on a kummelweck roll, served with a smear of horseradish and some aus jus for dipping. There are several places in Tampa Bay that serve this gem.
The Rueben – I am originally from New Jersey and worked in the Big Apple, so this is not new to me, but this authentic Jewish deli favorite is to die for. Piled high corned beef, sauerkraut, swiss cheese, and Russian dressing on rye is something magical. The Lucky Dill in Palm Harbor has the best outside of New York City
Philly Cheesesteak – A classic cheesesteak, as served in Philly, is ordered like this. First your order your cheese, either provolone or Cheez Whiz, then you indicate whether or not you want onions by ordering your sandwich “wit or witout.” The thin slivers of steak, onions and cheese on an Amaretta roll is a trip to sandwich heaven. Delco’s in Dunedin will make you think you are in Philly.
Pulled Pork Sandwich – I love barbecue, but my first taste of this hearty treat came after moving to Florida. Its origins come from either Kansas City, Memphis, North Carolina or all three, but the perfectly done pulled pork slathered in a just spicy enough sauce, a little cole slaw piled on a big toasted roll, just wow! We love the one from Willie Jewell’s BBQ.
The Hoagie – It doesn’t matter whether you call it a hoagie, a sub, a wedge, a hero, or a grinder, these Italian sandwiches have been around since the early 1900’sand beginning in the 50’s took on a whole new life of their own. Today there are hundreds of sandwich shops that feature these 6 and 12 inch beauties with every combination of meats, cheeses and other ingredients you can think of to enjoy.
Thanksgiving Sandwich – Okay confession time, this is sandwich I have been making and enjoying for more years than many of you have been on this planet. Two big pieces of white bread, some left over stuffing, some cranberry, corn, mashed potatoes topped with left over slices of turkey then some gravy and heated just enough and it is Thanksgiving all over again. Mmmmmmm!!!
Juicy Lucy – This burger was created many years ago in the Minneapolis area and became a quick favorite. Two burger patties, plenty of sharp cheddar between them then sealed together and grilled on the flat top and then that first bite. The cheese just oozes out all over, but damn it is so good. I make mine with a combo of swiss, mozzarella and sharp cheddar.
There are more favorites on this list including one I had never heard of before. In addition I am sure we all have our own concoctions for sandwiches that we have come up with along the way, I know I sure have and still do. Check out the link for the full list here: https://www.msn.com/en-us/foodanddrink/recipes/what-are-the-most-iconic-american-sandwiches/ss-BB1g5N0G?li=BBnb7Kz#image=1 Now go out and have a great lunch.
