Bushra Griffith
The ham and cheese sandwich is a classic, and a favourite for nearly 50% of respondents in a Contract Testing consumer survey. In the UK, it's the most popular sandwich, and it's also the most common sandwich in France, making up 70% of the country's 1.8 billion sandwiches eaten in 2008. It's easy to see why it's so popular: it's a simple yet delicious combination of ingredients, and it's versatile, too. You can use a variety of breads, cheeses, and toppings, and you can serve it hot or cold.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Popularity | Ham and cheese sandwiches are one of the most popular sandwiches. In the UK, it is the most popular sandwich, and in France, 70% of the 1.8 billion sandwiches eaten in 2008 were ham sandwiches. |
| Common additions | Common additions to ham and cheese sandwiches include butter, mayonnaise, mustard, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, and various other vegetables. |
| Bread | The bread can be fresh or toasted, and common types include wholemeal seeded bread, whole wheat bread, rustic artisanal bread, sourdough, and baguette. |
| Cheese | Common types of cheese used in ham and cheese sandwiches include Swiss, cheddar, Gruyere, Red Leicester, and mozzarella. |
| Preparation | Ham and cheese sandwiches can be served cold or toasted, and can be cooked in a skillet or toasted in a toastie maker. |
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What You'll Learn
The popularity of ham and cheese sandwiches
Ham and cheese sandwiches are a popular food choice, as evidenced by the fact that they were the only food sold in New York baseball parks in 1894, and that they were also taken on polar flights in the 1920s. In addition, a survey conducted by the British Sandwich Association in 2001 found that ham was the second favourite filling, behind cheese. This classic sandwich is a common type that is enjoyed by many, and its popularity is further demonstrated by its appearance in various cuisines around the world.
Variations
The versatility of the ham and cheese sandwich is another factor contributing to its popularity. It can be made with a variety of toppings and spreads, including mustard, mayonnaise, butter, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle slices. Some people prefer to use wholemeal seeded bread, while others opt for rustic artisanal bread or whole wheat bread. The type of cheese used can also vary, with options such as Swiss, Red Leicester, cheddar, Gruyere, or a combination of cheeses.
International variations
The ham and cheese sandwich has international appeal, with variations found in several different cuisines. In Argentinian cuisine, a "fosforito" is a ham and cheese sandwich made with puff pastry instead of bread. A similar sandwich, called a "jesuita", is found in Uruguay. The French have their own version called a "croque-monsieur", which is baked or fried, and in Brazil, a toasted ham and cheese sandwich is known as a "misto-quente".
Party favourite
Ham and cheese sandwiches are a popular choice for parties and celebrations. Baked ham and cheese sliders, for example, are mini rolls stuffed with deli ham and melted Swiss cheese, baked with a savoury poppy seed-mustard sauce. These sandwiches are perfect for feeding a crowd and are sure to be a hit with guests.
The ham and cheese sandwich is a classic, versatile, and internationally beloved dish that is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a quick lunch, a party, or a polar expedition. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its delicious combination of flavours and textures, making it a favourite among sandwich enthusiasts worldwide.
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Variations of ham and cheese sandwiches
Ham and cheese sandwiches are a classic, and there are endless ways to make them your own. While some people prefer to use butter, others opt for mayonnaise, and some like a combination of the two. You can also experiment with different types of mustard, from dijon to English or wholegrain, to add a tangy kick to your sandwich.
When it comes to cheese, the options are endless. While cheddar is the most classic choice, you can also try gruyere, Swiss, or Red Leicester. Shaving the cheese can create even slices and prevent it from falling out of the sandwich, but slicing or grating are also options.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can add a variety of toppings to your ham and cheese sandwich. Lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle slices are all popular choices. You can even get creative with your bread, opting for wholemeal seeded bread or something more unique like sourdough or a baguette.
For a warm and toasty treat, try making a grilled ham and cheese sandwich. Simply spread butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the sandwich and fry it in a pan until both sides are crisp and the cheese is melted. You can also use a toastie machine if you have one. This variation is perfect for a quick and easy lunch.
The Cuban sandwich is another popular variation, made with ham, cheese, and crusty Cuban bread. It is often toasted in a panini press, creating a crispy and indulgent treat.
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The history of ham and cheese sandwiches
The ham and cheese sandwich is a common dish that is beloved by many. The origin of this sandwich has been debated for years by culinary intellectuals. The leading theory, as noted in the 1961 edition of The Larousse Gastronomique, points to Patrick Connolly, an 18th-century Irish immigrant to England, who sold a dish combining the remains of pig with Leicester cheese and egg yolk sauce (a form of mayonnaise) on bread. This dish was known as a "'Connolly'" and is still referred to as such in some parts of the UK Midlands.
In the mid-1800s, the ham and cheese sandwich was introduced to the US from England, although it had already been popular in England for almost a century. Early iterations of the sandwich can be found in American cookbooks from this time, such as Eliza Leslie's 1840 cookbook "Directions for Cookery in Its Various Branches." The sandwich gained popularity in the US, especially in New York baseball parks in the late 19th century, where it was the only food available until 1909 when frankfurters were introduced. The sandwich continued to be a staple in the American diet, benefiting from the advent of pre-sliced bread, which made it an easy, portable meal.
The ham and cheese sandwich has also made its way into other cuisines. In French cuisine, the croque-monsieur is a baked or fried ham and cheese sandwich. The "inventor" of this sandwich is said to be Michel Lunarca, who started serving it at the brasserie Le Bel-Âge in 1910. The Argentinians and Uruguayans have their own version called "fosforito" and "jesuita," respectively, which uses puff pastry as the bread. In Brazilian cuisine, the toasted ham and cheese sandwich is known as a "misto-quente," which translates to "hot mix."
The versatility of the ham and cheese sandwich is evident in its global variations and enduring popularity. It has become a staple in lunchboxes and sports stadiums, offering a convenient, tasty, and satisfying meal for people from all walks of life.
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How to make a ham and cheese sandwich
Ham and cheese sandwiches are a popular choice, and it's easy to see why. They are simple to make, and the combination of cheese and ham is a celebration of flavour. Here is a guide on how to make the perfect ham and cheese sandwich.
Firstly, choose your bread. Most ham and cheese sandwiches use wholemeal seeded bread, but you can use any bread you like, such as wholewheat, 9-grain, or even puff pastry.
Next, select your cheese. Cheddar is the classic option, but you can also use Gruyere, Swiss, or Red Leicester. Shaving the cheese with a peeler will give you even slices and prevent it from falling out of the sandwich. You could also slice or grate the cheese.
Now, choose your ham. Go for a high-quality, dry ham with no residue, and slice it very thin. You can use any variety you like, such as Black Forest, Virginia, or honey-roasted.
It's time to assemble the sandwich. Spread your chosen bread with butter, mayo, or a combination of both. You can also add a thin layer of mustard, such as English, wholegrain, or Dijon. Layer on the cheese, followed by the ham, and any additional fillings you like. Some popular choices include pickles, lettuce, spinach, tomatoes, and onion. Finish with another slice of bread, and spread butter or mayo on the outside if you plan to toast it.
If you want a cold sandwich, simply slice and serve. For a toasted sandwich, heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and cook both sides until crisp, with the cheese melted in the centre. Alternatively, use a toastie machine or a sandwich press. Let the sandwich rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
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Different types of bread for ham and cheese sandwiches
Ham and cheese sandwiches are a popular dish, with many variations possible. The choice of bread is an important factor in creating the perfect sandwich.
Most ham and cheese sandwiches use wholemeal seeded bread, which adds texture and flavour to an otherwise simple sandwich. However, there are many other options to consider. For example, a soft sourdough bread can be used to create a grilled ham and cheese sandwich. The bread is slathered with butter and a tangy Dijon-mayonnaise spread, then toasted in a hot skillet. This creates a crispy, golden brown sandwich with a rich, indulgent flavour.
For a more versatile option, mini rolls can be stuffed with ham and cheese to create baked sliders. These can be served as an appetizer or a main course and are perfect for parties or family gatherings. The rolls can be buttery and paired with melted Swiss cheese and deli ham, or they can be adapted to include other meats and cheeses, such as salami, Black Forest ham, and Munster cheese.
In Argentinian and Uruguayan cuisine, a ham and cheese sandwich called a fosforito uses puff pastry as the bread. Similarly, a Cuban sandwich uses crusty Cuban bread, often toasted in a panini press. For a Brazilian-style toasted ham and cheese sandwich, known as a misto-quente, any type of bread can be used.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, the ham and cheese sandwich is a common sandwich and was the favourite of nearly 50% of respondents in a survey by Contract Testing. In the UK, it is the most popular sandwich, according to the British Sandwich Association.
Bread with a flat surface area is best for even toasting. Whole wheat bread is the most popular, followed by white and rye.
Popular toppings include mustard, mayonnaise, butter, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, and celery.
Some variations include the Cuban, which is made with crusty Cuban bread, the Argentinian fosforito, which uses puff pastry as bread, and the Brazilian misto-quente, which is toasted.
Some tips include using thinly sliced meat, shaving the cheese, and toasting the sandwich until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
