Patrick Oconnell
The combination of grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup is a classic pairing that has become a staple in many homes. Although the exact origin of this duo is unknown, it is believed to have emerged in the early 20th century, with the period between the Great Depression and post-World War II giving rise to its popularity. The grilled cheese sandwich, then known as toasted cheese or cheese dreams, became a favourite due to its affordability and convenience, made possible by the invention of processed cheese by the Kraft company in 1916 and the introduction of sliced bread in the 1920s. During World War II, the grilled cheese and tomato soup combination took off as a nutritious and economical meal, especially in government institutions, military mess halls, and school lunch rooms. The vitamin C in tomatoes and the carbs in cheese sandwiches made it a quick and energising meal that has persisted as a comfort food for generations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name of the dish | Grilled cheese and tomato soup |
| Other names | Toasted cheese sandwiches, cheese dreams |
| Origin | The dish emerged in the early 20th century, between the Great Depression and post-World War II |
| Origin reason | The need to feed people inexpensively |
| Ingredients | Processed cheese, sliced bread, canned tomato soup |
| Ingredients availability | Processed cheese was invented by the Kraft company and hit the shelves in 1916. Sliced bread was invented in 1928. Canned tomato soup has been available since 1897. |
| Taste | The creaminess of the cheese and the absorption of the bread complement the high acidity of the tomato soup |
| Vitamin content | The dish provides vitamin C from tomatoes and carbs from the cheese sandwiches |
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What You'll Learn
The grilled cheese sandwich
The combination of grilled cheese and tomato soup is particularly iconic. Canned tomato soup and processed cheese were inexpensive and readily available, making the pairing a nutritious and affordable option for families. The vitamin C in tomatoes and carbs in the cheese sandwiches made it a quick and energizing meal.
In conclusion, the grilled cheese sandwich is a classic American dish that has evolved from its humble beginnings as a Depression-era meal to a comfort food favourite, often enjoyed with a bowl of tomato soup.
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The history of tomato soup
Although it is difficult to pinpoint the exact moment when tomato soup was invented, it is known that tomatoes originated in what is now central Mexico and northern South America. In the 1400s, the Spanish arrived and began shipping tomatoes outside of South America, and eventually back to Europe. Early Spanish and African tomato soups were served cold, as they were often consumed in hot climates. In Spain, tomatoes were added to gazpacho, a chilled soup made with broth, beans, and stale bread.
In the 1800s, tomatoes were widely considered poisonous in the United States until food shortages during the Civil War made canning a necessity, and people discovered that tomatoes were easily storable. Eliza Leslie's 1857 "Miss Leslie's New Cookery Book" contains several recipes for tomato soup, making it one of the earliest recorded versions of the dish. Maria Parloa, a pioneer in the field of home economics, published a recipe for tomato chowder in her 1872 debut, "The Appledore Cook Book". The introduction of canned tomatoes during the Civil War era paved the way for tomato soup in its modern form.
In the early 1900s, demand for tomatoes in America grew significantly, partly due to the influence of Campbell's soup. The company began its tomato-breeding program in 1910, and its tomato soup soon became a common feature of American pantries. Canned tomato soup had been around since 1897 but joined the grilled cheese sandwich—a popular meal during the Great Depression and post-World War II—to create the classic pairing. During World War II, the grilled cheese sandwich was paired with tomato soup in government institutions, military mess halls, and school lunch rooms to provide a nutritious and inexpensive meal.
Tomato soup is now a widely enjoyed dish, found in numerous variations around the world. It is considered a comfort food and is particularly popular in its canned form, which is easy to prepare. Basic tomato soup generally consists of tomato puree or paste, water, and sometimes milk or cream. It can be made from fresh tomatoes, which are blanched, peeled, and blended into a puree. Various ingredients can be added for flavour, such as onion, garlic, olive oil, vegetable or chicken broth, butter, salt, pepper, or sugar.
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The marriage of the two
The marriage of grilled cheese and tomato soup is a relatively recent phenomenon, with the pairing first emerging in the early 20th century. The comfort and satisfaction offered by this duo are well-known, but the story behind their union is rooted in the need for affordable and nourishing meals. This combination became a staple during the Great Depression and World War II, when pre-packaged and processed foods provided a cost-effective way to feed families.
The rise of big-name brands and economic prosperity in the 1920s influenced a shift towards convenience and affordability in American dining. Canned and processed foods, including the invention of processed cheese by the Kraft company in 1916 and the creation of sliced bread in 1928, paved the way for the grilled cheese sandwich. While canned tomato soup had been around since 1897, it gained popularity during this era of industrialisation.
During World War II, the grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup came together as a nutritious and economical meal. The vitamin C in tomatoes and the carbs in cheese sandwiches provided energy, and the pairing became a favourite in military mess halls, schools, and government institutions. The simplicity and affordability of this combination ensured its enduring popularity, and it has since become a classic comfort food for generations of Americans.
The creamy texture of melted cheese and the absorbent nature of bread complement the high acidity of tomato soup, creating a harmonious flavour profile. The grilled cheese and tomato soup duo has also been likened to a deconstructed pizza, with similar flavour profiles and ingredients. This comparison adds a playful twist to the pairing and further cements its place in the hearts of many.
While the origin of this culinary marriage may have been born out of necessity, the grilled cheese and tomato soup combination has endured and evolved. From its humble beginnings, it has climbed to new heights, with gourmet interpretations and deconstructed versions offered at high-end establishments. The enduring appeal of this iconic pairing lies in its ability to provide comfort, satisfaction, and a delightful culinary experience.
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Variations of the combination
The classic combination of grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup has been a comfort food staple for many Americans since the early 20th century. While the pairing is rooted in the need to feed people inexpensively, it has endured as a beloved comfort meal. Here are some variations on the classic combination:
Basic Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
The simplest form of this combination involves a grilled cheese sandwich made with sliced bread, butter, and cheese, served alongside canned tomato soup. This quick and easy meal can be made in under 30 minutes and is a favourite among college students on a budget.
Toasted Cheese Sandwiches
Also known as "cheese dreams," these sandwiches were a staple in family homes during the Great Depression and post-World War II era. Toasted cheese sandwiches were often paired with tomato soup in government institutions, military mess halls, and school lunchrooms to provide a nourishing and vitamin-rich meal.
Smoked Cheese and Prosciutto Ham
For a heartier option, add smoked cheese and prosciutto ham to your grilled cheese sandwich. This variation takes the classic combination to the next level and makes for an incredible, indulgent meal.
Chili and Grilled Cheese
For those who want to spice things up, pairing grilled cheese with chili is a match made in heaven. Adding cheese to the chili takes it to the next level, and dipping your grilled cheese into the chili creates a delicious, indulgent experience.
Tomato Soup Variations
The tomato soup itself can also be varied to create different flavours. Some people like to add a swirl of cream and fresh basil to their soup, enhancing the creamy texture and adding a sophisticated touch. Others prefer to experiment with different types of milk, such as coconut milk, to make the soup dairy-free and add a creamy, tropical twist.
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The cultural impact
Grilled cheese and tomato soup is a combination that has become a staple of American culture and comfort food. The dish's cultural impact is far-reaching and deeply rooted in the country's history, with its origins dating back to the early 20th century. Here are some aspects of its cultural significance:
Historical Significance: The pairing of grilled cheese and tomato soup emerged during the Great Depression and World War II, a time when affordable and nourishing meals were crucial. The grilled cheese sandwich, then known as "toasted cheese" or "cheese dreams", became a staple due to its low cost and filling nature. Canned tomato soup, which had been around since the mid-1800s, was a convenient and vitamin-rich addition to the sandwich, especially for military families and those facing economic hardships. This history gives the dish a sense of nostalgia and connects it to a significant period in American history.
Comfort Food: Grilled cheese and tomato soup is synonymous with comfort food in American culture. The creamy, gooey cheese, crunchy bread, and flavorful soup create a satisfying and comforting sensory experience. It evokes feelings of warmth and familiarity, making it a go-to choice for a quick, satisfying meal.
Popularity and Accessibility: The dish's widespread popularity is evident in its presence across different segments of American society. It has been served in schools, government institutions, and military mess halls. The accessibility of its ingredients, such as processed cheese, sliced bread, and canned soup, has made it an easy-to-prepare meal for families from all walks of life.
Innovation and Creativity: Grilled cheese and tomato soup has inspired culinary creativity, with chefs reimagining the classic combination in various ways. From deconstructed versions served at high-end restaurants to ingredient substitutions and gourmet twists, the dish has evolved to cater to different tastes and preferences. The versatility of the dish allows for experimentation, reflecting the dynamic nature of American cuisine.
Pop Culture References: Grilled cheese and tomato soup have made their way into popular culture, with references in movies, television shows, and literature. It has become a symbol of comfort, simplicity, and nostalgia, often evoking a sense of childhood or home-cooked meals. The dish has also been featured in various forms of media as a representation of American culture and culinary traditions.
Social Gatherings and Traditions: The dish holds a place in social gatherings and traditions, such as dinner parties or family meals. It has become a comforting and familiar option for bringing people together and creating shared culinary experiences. The simplicity and familiarity of the dish make it suitable for various occasions, from casual get-togethers to more formal events with creative twists.
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Frequently asked questions
The pairing of grilled cheese and tomato soup is rooted in the need to feed people as inexpensively as possible. The vitamin C in tomatoes and the carbs in cheese sandwiches made it a quick and nourishing meal.
Grilled cheese and tomato soup became popular in the early 20th century, especially during the Great Depression and post-World War II.
The creaminess of the cheese and the absorption of the bread complement the high acidity of the tomato soup. Some people also enjoy dunking their grilled cheese into the soup, creating a deconstructed pizza of sorts.
