Submarine Sandwich Vs Torpedo: Which One Is Your Pick?

Introduction:

In the realm of submarine cuisine, two titans stand tall: the submarine sandwich and the torpedo. Both cylindrical in shape, they tantalize taste buds and spark heated debates among sandwich enthusiasts. This culinary battle royale pits these giants against each other, exploring their similarities, differences, and the ultimate question: which reigns supreme?

Ingredients and Assembly

Submarine sandwiches, also known as hoagies or heroes, are typically made with a long, crusty bread roll. They are generously filled with a variety of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and condiments. Torpedoes, on the other hand, are made with a soft, chewy bread roll and are typically filled with a single type of meat, such as steak or chicken.

Size and Shape

Submarine sandwiches are generally larger than torpedoes, with lengths that can range from 6 to 12 inches. They have a cylindrical shape with a diameter of about 2-3 inches. Torpedoes are typically shorter, ranging from 4 to 6 inches, and have a more tapered shape.

Meat Options

Submarine sandwiches offer a wide variety of meat options, including ham, turkey, roast beef, salami, and pepperoni. Torpedoes, on the other hand, are typically filled with a single type of meat, such as steak, chicken, or fish.

Cheese Options

Submarine sandwiches also offer a wide range of cheese options, including cheddar, provolone, Swiss, and mozzarella. Torpedoes, on the other hand, are typically made with a single type of cheese, such as American or cheddar.

Condiments

Submarine sandwiches can be topped with a variety of condiments, including lettuce, tomato, onion, peppers, pickles, and mayonnaise. Torpedoes are typically topped with a more limited selection of condiments, such as ketchup, mustard, or barbecue sauce.

Origin and History

Submarine sandwiches are believed to have originated in Italy in the 19th century. They were brought to the United States by Italian immigrants and became popular in the early 20th century. Torpedoes are a more recent invention, first appearing in the United States in the 1950s.

Which Sandwich Reigns Supreme?

The ultimate question of which sandwich reigns supreme is a matter of personal preference. Submarine sandwiches offer a greater variety of ingredients and customization options, while torpedoes are known for their simplicity and bold flavors.

Beyond the Battle: Regional Variations

Both submarine sandwiches and torpedoes have undergone regional variations over the years. In Philadelphia, submarine sandwiches are known as hoagies and are typically filled with roast beef, provolone cheese, and Italian dressing. In New York City, submarine sandwiches are known as heroes and can be filled with a variety of meats, cheeses, and toppings.

Key Points: A Tale of Two Titans

The submarine sandwich and the torpedo are both iconic sandwiches with their own unique charms. Whether you prefer the variety of flavors and ingredients of a submarine sandwich or the bold simplicity of a torpedo, there is no denying the culinary significance of these sandwich titans.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Which sandwich is larger, a submarine sandwich or a torpedo?
A: Submarine sandwiches are generally larger than torpedoes, with lengths that can range from 6 to 12 inches.

Q: What is the difference between a submarine sandwich and a grinder?
A: Submarine sandwiches and grinders are essentially the same thing, with different names used in different regions.

Q: Can torpedoes be filled with vegetarian options?
A: Yes, torpedoes can be filled with vegetarian options, such as grilled vegetables or tofu.