Phagomania: Shifting Sandwiches
Our resident Phagomaniac went on the telly earlier this year to say that the sandwich was making a comeback; at the mid-point of 2015, here are a few of his favourite sandwiches from across history
The sandwich is, as the kids say, “really having a moment” right now. From your bao and banh mi to a roll with half a slow-cooked pig stuffed inside it, there's never been a better time to be a fan of sticking things between bread. With that in mind, let's look at the greats – the rockstars, TV stars and anthropomorphic animals – who have gone before to leave us at this sandwich-happy point.
Elvis Presley – 'The Elvis' and 'Fool’s Gold Loaf'
For starters, nobody else has two signature sandwiches attributed to them. The Fool's Gold is an entire loaf, scooped out and filled with peanut butter, jam and bacon, while his other sandwich, 'The Elvis', comprises peanut butter, banana and bacon. You might have noticed a pattern emerging. The 'Elvis' is usually fried, and although it seems everyone has their own take on it, we’ll assume the original was as unhealthy as possible.
Ernest Hemingway – Peanut butter and onion
“One of the highest points in the sandwich-maker’s art. For Commanders only.” Hemingway’s prose even manages to arouse some desire to try this recipe. The cultural elite of America were apparently rocked when it was revealed that Hemingway’s favourite sandwich was rather grotesque and crude. Or is it? Have a drink, try it out, then skim through the Hemingway cookbook to see what else old Ernie has to recommend.
Adam Richman of Man Vs Food – The 'Adam Richwich'
If you are this far into a Phagomania article we are guessing you are familiar with heavyweight US food series Man Vs Food. It will come as no surprise that presenter Adam Richman’s favourite sandwich features a truckload of ingredients. Here’s the list: Sriracha Thai chilli sauce, mayonnaise, crinkle-cut crisps, turkey, avocado, coriander, sliced pickles, a fried egg, and some bacon. Yes, really. Honestly, take a look...
Scooby Doo – Dagwood
Not to be confused with 'Scooby snacks', Shaggy and Scoob’s classic sandwich stack is always a take on the mighty dagwood sandwich, which despite only displaying visible lettuce would apparently comprise ‘a double triple decker sardine and marshmallow fudge sandwich.’
Paddington Bear – Marmalade sandwiches
Okay, there is some debate about this one, largely due to a TV advert for a certain yeast-based sandwich spread. Having espoused the power of the sandwich on television, we feel confident to say the following: Paddington Bear does not eat Marmite and cheese sandwiches, he eats marmalade sandwiches. That’s what is in his suitcase, and that's what he keeps under his hat for emergencies. You're welcome.