The Countdown To Champion: Hoagie Vs Sub Roll
What To Know
- The sub roll was brought to the United States by Italian immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and it quickly became a popular sandwich bread in Italian-American communities.
- If you prefer a hearty and flavorful sandwich with a crusty exterior, then a hoagie is the right choice for you.
- If you prefer a more delicate and refined sandwich with a softer bread, then a sub roll is the way to go.
The world of sandwiches is vast and diverse, with countless variations and regional specialties. Among the most popular and beloved sandwich creations are the hoagie and the sub roll. These two iconic sandwiches share many similarities, but they also have some key differences that set them apart. In this blog post, we will explore the fascinating world of hoagies and sub rolls, comparing their histories, ingredients, and overall culinary experience.
A Brief History of Hoagies and Sub Rolls
The Hoagie
The origins of the hoagie are shrouded in mystery, with several theories about its creation. One popular belief is that the hoagie was invented in the early 1900s by Italian immigrants in Philadelphia, who used a long, crusty roll to accommodate their generous fillings. Another theory suggests that the hoagie originated in the Italian district of South Philadelphia, where it was known as a “hoagie roll.”
The Sub Roll
The sub roll, on the other hand, has a more straightforward history. It originated in Italy, where it is known as a “panino” or “submarino.” The sub roll was brought to the United States by Italian immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and it quickly became a popular sandwich bread in Italian-American communities.
Key Differences Between Hoagies and Sub Rolls
While hoagies and sub rolls are both long, crusty sandwich breads, there are several key differences between the two:
1. Size and Shape
Hoagies are typically larger than sub rolls, with a length of 12 to 15 inches. Sub rolls, on the other hand, are usually 6 to 10 inches long. Hoagies also have a more oblong shape, while sub rolls are more rounded.
2. Crust
Hoagies have a hard, crusty exterior, while sub rolls have a softer, more chewy crust. This difference in crust texture is due to the different types of flour used in the dough. Hoagies are made with a high-gluten flour, which creates a strong, chewy crust. Sub rolls, on the other hand, are made with a lower-gluten flour, which results in a softer, more tender crust.
3. Dough
Hoagie dough is typically made with a combination of white flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil. Sub roll dough, on the other hand, may include additional ingredients such as eggs, milk, and sugar. This difference in dough composition contributes to the different textures and flavors of the two breads.
The Classic Fillings
Both hoagies and sub rolls can be filled with a wide variety of ingredients, but there are some classic fillings that are associated with each type of sandwich.
Hoagie Fillings
The classic hoagie filling includes sliced meats, such as ham, salami, and roast beef, as well as provolone cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and peppers. Hoagies are often dressed with a combination of oil, vinegar, and oregano.
Sub Roll Fillings
The classic sub roll filling includes sliced meats, such as turkey, roast beef, or ham, as well as Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. Sub rolls are often dressed with mayonnaise, mustard, and lettuce.
The Culinary Experience
The culinary experience of eating a hoagie or sub roll is unique to each type of sandwich.
Hoagie Experience
Hoagies are known for their hearty and flavorful fillings, which are held together by the crusty bread. The hard crust provides a satisfying crunch, while the chewy interior creates a perfect balance of textures.
Sub Roll Experience
Sub rolls offer a more delicate and refined culinary experience. The softer bread allows the fillings to take center stage, while the chewy crust provides a subtle crunch. The combination of flavors and textures creates a harmonious and satisfying sandwich.
Which One Is Right for You?
The choice between a hoagie and a sub roll ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a hearty and flavorful sandwich with a crusty exterior, then a hoagie is the right choice for you. If you prefer a more delicate and refined sandwich with a softer bread, then a sub roll is the way to go.
Hoagies vs Sub Rolls: The Final Showdown
In the culinary showdown between hoagies and sub rolls, there is no clear winner. Both sandwiches have their own unique strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on your personal preferences. Whether you prefer the hearty and flavorful hoagie or the more delicate and refined sub roll, one thing is for sure: you’re in for a delicious treat!
What You Need to Know
1. What is the difference between a hoagie and a hero?
A hoagie and a hero are essentially the same sandwich. The term “hoagie” is primarily used in the Philadelphia area, while “hero” is more common in New York City.
2. What is the difference between a hoagie and a grinder?
A grinder is a type of hoagie that is typically made with a long, crusty Italian roll. Grinders are often filled with meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
3. What is the difference between a hoagie and a submarine sandwich?
A submarine sandwich, or sub for short, is a type of sandwich that is made with a long, cylindrical roll. Subs are typically filled with meats, cheeses, and vegetables.