Sub vs Hoagie: What is the Difference Between a Sub and a Hoagie 2?

There’s nothing like biting into a freshly-made sandwich to satiate those hunger pangs. Whether you’re a sandwich aficionado or a casual fan, you might have wondered if there’s any difference between a sub and a hoagie 2. While both sandwiches are widely popular, they’re not quite the same. Let’s delve a little deeper and explore what sets these two sandwiches apart.

While both sandwiches have similar origins, their names vary depending on where you come from. The sub is largely popular in the Northern United States and is known as submarine sandwich. Hoagie, on the other hand, has its roots in Philadelphia and is more commonly used in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern regions of the USA. However, there’s a slight deviation in what makes up each sandwich; hoagies are built on a rectangular-shaped roll, while subs are typically served on an elongated roll.

If you’re a sandwich lover, you’ll know that what makes a great sandwich is the combination of fillings it contains. Subs and hoagies feature distinct combinations of ingredients, too. Subs typically consist of cold cuts like ham, salami, and turkey, accompanied by an array of veggies like lettuce, tomato, onions, and bell pepper. Hoagies, on the other hand, feature cold cuts as well, but the dressing is what sets it apart. Hoagie dressing is composed of oil, vinegar, and spices, giving it a tangy and zesty taste. So, the next time you bite into your favorite sandwich, you’ll know what distinguishes one from another.

Origin of the Sub Sandwich

The sub sandwich, also referred to as a hero, grinder, or hoagie, is a beloved staple of American cuisine. Its origins can be traced back to the early 20th century when Italian immigrants brought their love of meat and bread to the United States.

The term “submarine sandwich” first appeared in print in 1940, in an article in the Boston Evening Transcript. However, the exact origin of the sandwich itself is still debated among historians and food enthusiasts.

One popular theory is that the sub sandwich was created in New London, Connecticut, at a restaurant called “The Submarine.” Another theory is that it originated in Philadelphia, where Italian immigrants would combine meats, cheeses, and vegetables on a long, crusty roll and call it a “hoggie” or “hoagie.”

  • Regardless of its exact origin, the sub sandwich quickly became a popular lunchtime food in America, especially in the Northeast. It was the perfect meal for busy workers who needed something quick, filling, and delicious.
  • Since then, the sub sandwich has evolved to include a variety of meats, cheeses, and toppings, as well as different types of bread, such as whole wheat or gluten-free options.
  • Today, the sub sandwich is a staple in delis, sandwich shops, and fast-food chains across the country. It’s a versatile lunch or dinner option that can be customized to fit any taste preference.

Origin of the Hoagie Sandwich

The hoagie sandwich, also known as a sub, grinder, or hero, is a popular American sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during the 1930s. There are a few theories about how the hoagie got its name, but the most widely accepted one is that it was named after the workers of Hog Island, who were known as “hoggies.”

  • The first hoagie sandwich was created by Al DePalma, a sandwich shop owner in Philadelphia. He reportedly combined various Italian meats, cheeses, and vegetables on a roll with a generous helping of olive oil and Italian seasoning.
  • The hoagie became a popular choice among shipyard workers and became a staple food in the Philadelphia area.
  • The hoagie sandwich gained national recognition when it was featured on the television show “What’s My Line?” in the 1950s. The popularity of the hoagie sandwich continued to grow and spread to other regions of the country.

Today, the hoagie sandwich is a beloved American classic that can be found in restaurants and delis across the country. Its origins are deeply rooted in the history and culture of the city of Philadelphia and continue to be a source of pride for those who call it home.

In contrast, a sub sandwich is a type of sandwich that can be made with a variety of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and sauces on a long roll. While the origins of the sub sandwich are somewhat unclear, it is believed to have originated in the northeastern United States during the early 20th century.

Hoagie Sandwich Sub Sandwich
Originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during the 1930s Origins are unclear, but believed to have originated in the northeastern United States during the early 20th century
Named after the workers of Hog Island, who were known as “hoggies” Short for “submarine sandwich,” which likely refers to its shape resembling a submarine
Typically made with Italian meats, cheeses, and vegetables on a long roll with olive oil and Italian seasoning Can be made with a variety of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and sauces on a long roll

While there may be some overlap between the ingredients used in a hoagie sandwich and a sub sandwich, the main difference lies in their origins and the cultural and regional significance they hold.

Common ingredients in a sub sandwich

Sub sandwiches are known for their generous fillings and wide range of ingredients. Among the most common ingredients used in sub sandwiches are:

  • Meat: This can range from sliced deli meats like turkey, ham and roast beef to cooked meats like meatballs, steak and sausage. Some subs also feature cured meats like salami and prosciutto.
  • Cheese: Cheese is an important ingredient in subs as it not only adds flavor but also helps to bind the fillings together. Popular types of cheese used in subs include provolone, cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
  • Vegetables: Fresh vegetables add color, texture and nutrition to subs. Some common vegetables used in subs include lettuce, tomato, onion, cucumber, bell peppers, olives, jalapenos, and pickles.
  • Condiments: Condiments are crucial in adding flavor and moistness to subs. Some popular condiments include mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, hot sauce, pesto, and vinaigrette. Oil and vinegar is also a common condiment used to add flavor and moisture to subs.
  • Bread: The type of bread used in a sub varies by region and personal preference. Some types of bread used in subs are Italian, French, and baguette. Some other options include hoagie rolls, wraps, pitas, and ciabatta bread.

When it comes to making a sub sandwich, the possibilities are nearly endless. The ingredients depend on personal preference and the type of sub being made. Some subs feature bold flavors while others prioritize fresh and crisp ingredients. Nevertheless, the ingredients listed above are the most common in creating the perfect sub sandwich.

Common ingredients in a hoagie sandwich

A hoagie is a variation of a sandwich prepared on a long roll or baguette. While the ingredients that go into a hoagie can vary greatly, there are a few common ingredients that are almost always included.

  • Bread: As mentioned, hoagies are typically served on a long roll that has a crispy exterior and a soft interior.
  • Meat: Hoagies are often made with deli-style meats, such as ham, turkey, roast beef, or salami.
  • Cheese: Cheese is a staple ingredient in a hoagie, and popular cheeses for hoagies include provolone, Swiss, and American.
  • Veggies: Lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and hot or sweet peppers are common veggies in a hoagie. Additional veggies can include cucumber, carrots, or olives.
  • Condiments: Condiments can include oil and vinegar, mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, or any other sauce that complements the flavors in the sandwich.

While this is not an exhaustive list of the ingredients that can be included in a hoagie, these are the common ingredients that you can expect to find in a traditional hoagie. In some regions, like Philadelphia, hoagies are taken very seriously, and even more specific ingredients might be added.

Regional differences in naming and ingredients

The terminology and ingredients used in subs and hoagies can vary greatly depending on the region where they are traditionally prepared. Some of the most notable differences include:

  • Name: In parts of the Northeast United States, such as Philadelphia, the term “hoagie” is used to refer to a sandwich made on an Italian roll with cold cuts, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and oil and vinegar. Meanwhile, in other parts of the country, such as the Midwest and West Coast, the term “sub” is more commonly used to describe this type of sandwich.
  • Bread: While both subs and hoagies are typically made with a long, crusty roll, the type of roll can vary depending on the region. In New England, sub rolls are often made with a softer, lighter bread, while in Philadelphia and other parts of the Northeast, hoagie rolls are typically made with a harder, chewier bread.
  • Ingredients: The specific types of cold cuts, cheese, vegetables, and condiments used in subs and hoagies can also vary from region to region. For example, in the Northeast, hoagies are often made with Italian meats like prosciutto and capicola, while in the Midwest, subs might be made with roast beef or turkey. Similarly, the addition of pickles, peppers, and other toppings can vary depending on the area.

To help illustrate these regional differences, here is a breakdown of the ingredients typically used in a classic hoagie from Philadelphia:

Ingredient Amount
Hoagie roll 1
Salami 3 slices
Capicola 3 slices
Prosciutto 3 slices
Provolone cheese 2 slices
Lettuce 3 leaves
Tomato 2 slices
Onion 3 slices
Oil and vinegar to taste

As you can see, there are many regional differences in the naming and ingredients used in subs and hoagies. These variations are a testament to the diverse culinary traditions found throughout the United States and beyond.

Characteristic bread used in a sub sandwich

One of the most important elements of a sub sandwich is the bread, which serves as the foundation for all the ingredients that make a sub sandwich so delicious. The bread used in sub sandwiches is typically long and cylindrical in shape and can vary in texture and flavor depending on the specific region or type of sub being made.

  • Italian Bread: Arguably the most common type of bread used in sub sandwiches is Italian bread. This bread is characterized by its crispy crust and soft, airy interior, and is the perfect vessel for a variety of cold cuts and fillings.
  • French Bread: Another popular bread choice for subs is French bread, which is similar to Italian bread but tends to have a thinner crust and a more subtle flavor profile. This type of bread is ideal for subs that are heavy on the meat and cheese, as it won’t overpower the other flavors.
  • Whole Wheat Bread: For those who prefer a healthier option, whole wheat bread can be used in sub sandwiches. This type of bread is denser and heartier than Italian or French bread, and tends to have a nuttier flavor profile that pairs well with roasted vegetables and other earthy ingredients.

One important thing to note is that the bread used in a sub sandwich should be sturdy enough to hold up to all the ingredients, without getting soggy or falling apart. This is why softer, flakier breads like croissants or ciabatta bread are not typically used in sub sandwiches.

Bread Type Characteristics Best Subs For
Italian Bread Crispy crust, soft, airy interior Cold cut subs, meatball subs, veggie subs
French Bread Thinner crust, subtle flavor Meat-heavy subs, cheese steak subs
Whole Wheat Bread Denser, heartier, nutty flavor Roast beef subs, veggie subs, turkey subs

Ultimately, the bread used in a sub sandwich is just as important as the fillings that go inside it. To create the perfect sub sandwich, it’s important to select a bread that complements the flavors and textures of the other ingredients, while also holding up to the weight and moisture of the fillings.

Characteristic bread used in a hoagie sandwich

One of the most defining aspects of a hoagie sandwich is the bread. Hoagie rolls are typically long and cylindrical, with a chewy texture and a slightly crispy exterior. The most traditional type of bread for a hoagie is the Amoroso roll, named after the Philadelphia-based bakery that originated this type of bread. This roll is made from a combination of flour, water, yeast, salt, and malt, and it is baked at a high temperature to give it its signature texture and flavor.

In addition to the Amoroso roll, there are other types of bread that can be used for a hoagie sandwich, such as French bread or Italian bread. However, these breads may not have the same chewiness or crispy crust as the Amoroso roll, so purists may argue that they are not true hoagies.

Types of characteristic bread used in a hoagie sandwich

  • Amoroso roll
  • French bread
  • Italian bread

The importance of the hoagie roll

The hoagie roll is not just a vessel for the fillings in a hoagie sandwich, it is an integral part of the dish. The chewy texture and crispy exterior of the roll create a contrast with the soft, fresh ingredients of the sandwich, adding depth and complexity to each bite. The unique flavor of the Amoroso roll, which comes from using malt in the dough, also contributes to the overall taste of the sandwich.

In fact, the importance of the hoagie roll is so great that many sandwich shops in Philadelphia and other parts of the US import Amoroso rolls from the original bakery or from other suppliers who use the same recipe and baking techniques. This ensures that every hoagie sandwich is as authentic and delicious as possible.

A comparison of sub and hoagie rolls

While sub sandwiches and hoagies are often used interchangeably, there is a difference in the type of bread that is used. Sub rolls are generally softer and may not have the same chewiness or crispy crust as hoagie rolls. Sub rolls are also typically wider and flatter than hoagie rolls, which can affect the ratio of bread to filling in the sandwich. While both types of sandwiches can be delicious, the texture and flavor of the bread is what sets them apart.

Hoagie roll Sub roll
Shape Long and cylindrical Wider and flatter
Texture Chewy with a slightly crispy exterior Softer
Flavor Unique, slightly sweet flavor from malt in the dough Milder flavor

Whether you prefer a sub or a hoagie sandwich, the bread is an important factor in the overall taste and texture of the dish. While sub rolls and hoagie rolls have some similarities, the characteristic bread used in a hoagie sandwich is what truly sets it apart.

FAQs: What is the difference between a sub and a hoagie 2?

Q: What is a sub?

A: A sub is a type of sandwich made with Italian bread and filled with various meats, cheeses, and vegetables. It’s typically a rectangular shape and can be served hot or cold.

Q: What is a hoagie?

A: A hoagie is a type of sandwich made with a long, cylindrical roll, also known as a hoagie roll. It’s traditionally filled with Italian meats (such as salami and ham), provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion, and served cold.

Q: What is the main difference between a sub and a hoagie?

A: The main difference is the type of bread used. A sub is made with Italian bread, which is softer and more rectangular in shape, while a hoagie is made with a long cylindrical roll that is denser and crustier.

Q: Is there a regional difference between a sub and a hoagie?

A: Yes, there is a regional difference. Subs are more commonly associated with the Northeast region of the United States, while hoagies are associated with the Philadelphia area.

Q: Can you customize a sub or a hoagie?

A: Yes, both subs and hoagies can be customized with a variety of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and condiments to suit your taste preferences.

Closing Title: Thanks for Disovering the Difference Between a Sub and a Hoagie 2

Now that you know the difference between a sub and a hoagie, you can make an informed decision when ordering your next sandwich. Explore the variety in your choice of bread, piles of flavorful meats and crisp vegetables that go between them. We hope this article was helpful to satisfy your curiosity, and we invite you to visit again later for more exciting discoveries!