For The Love of Sandwiches
Everyone loves sandwiches, from the versatility in toppings to the texture of the bread. It might be a surprise to hear that there are hundreds of sandwiches out there. However, here’s a list of the top 20 most popular sandwiches around the world that you should try today.
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1. Grilled Cheese (United States)
The United States is a melting pot of cultures, which means there are dozens of different sandwiches competing for the top spot. However, there’s nothing more all-American than grilled cheese. From the classic string pulls to the buttery bread, it’s a lunchtime staple.
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2. Vada Pav (India)
For bold flavors that pack a punch, the Vada Pav will have you so hooked you won’t even realize there’s no meat. A potato patty is placed between two dinner-roll-sized buns and topped with tangy chutney.
3. Banh Mi (Vietnam)
This is a very versatile sandwich that many Vietnamese locals turn to for their breakfast fix. The crisp baguette is split and filled with fresh veggies and savory meat. Similar to a submarine sandwich, the simplicity and tangy flavor of the Banh Mi will have you reaching for seconds.
4. Arepa (Venezuela)
The Arepa is tantalizing and addictive! A small flatbread is opened up and stuffed with melt-in-your-mouth meat and warm cheese. It’s a versatile treat too, as you can bake, grill, or fry it and vary the toppings.
5. Croque Monsieur (France)
The French just have a way with food, and everyone can admit the Croque Monsieur leaves the grilled cheese in the dust. Butter-toasted bread is topped with dollops of melted cheese and ham. A smearing of Dijon mustard or béchamel sauce can take the sandwich to a whole new level. However, it's not finished without a cooked egg on top.
6. Bao (China)
By now, you’ve probably taken notice of bao sandwiches. Doughy bread is filled with spicy, saucy meats and a helping of fresh greens and crisp cucumbers. While the toppings vary, the bao is predominantly known for its soft, pillowy bread contrasted by bold meat flavors.
7. Bun Kebab (Pakistan)
You won’t know you’ve been missing the bun kebab until you taste it. Simplicity is key here, as a shallow-fried Shami kebab is placed between two dinner-roll-style buns and topped with spices and tamarind. For many Pakistanis, this is a treat worth indulging in.
8. Cuban Sandwich (Cuba-America)
The Cuban sandwich is what happens when cultures come together to create something amazing. Cuban immigrants in a Florida community created the tantalizingly simple sandwich. Pulled pork and ham are layered between Cuban bread and topped with tangy mustard and zesty pickles. It doesn’t get better than that.
9. Shawarma (Lebanon)
Everyone loves a good shawarma, but credit must be given to the Arab countries that popularized it. Roasted meats are sliced thin and then rolled up in warm pita bread, often accompanied with pickles, radishes, and tzatziki.
10. Cevapi (Serbia)
Made up of minced meat, these grilled kebabs are perfectly wrapped up in bread. What makes this dish stand out is its unique meat mix, where veal, mutton, and beef are combined alongside garlic, salt, and pepper.
11. Fruit Sando (Japan)
With all the meats on the menu, Japan switches things up with their all-too-popular fruit sando. You’ve probably seen this picturesque sandwich in window displays. Fresh fruit is sliced and layered with whipped cream inside soft and fluffy milk bread.
12. Torta (Mexico)
It’s a shame that it took so long to get to this revolutionary sandwich. The torta takes advantage of Mexican staples, including refried beans, breaded chicken, and guacamole to deliver a flavorful combination.
13. Kaya Toast (Singapore)
While most roll their eyes at the mention of toast, Singapore has taken it to the next level. Toasted and crunchy bread is packed with coconut jam, also known as kaya. Add in a little butter, and this delightful breakfast treat belongs on every table.
14. Mortadella Panini (Italy)
Italy is known as a food powerhouse, and its Mortadella Panini takes advantage of classic ingredients. Warm, crisp bread is stuffed with cured meats, grilled veggies, and a helping of cheese.
15. Gyro (Greece)
Greek gyros are loved around the world. After all, who could refuse rotisserie-style meats served up in thick pita bread? The meat, often chicken or lamb, is shaved thin and stacked up atop one another.
16. Cucumber Tea Sandwich (England)
The perfect companion to afternoon tea or a classy choice in any picnic basket, cucumber sandwiches are both simple and timeless. Served to nobles in the olden days, you can enjoy this sandwich by spreading cucumbers and cream cheese between sliced white bread.
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17. Doner (Turkey)
Similar to the Greek gyro, it’s clear by now that many of these cultures share dishes and recipes. However, what sets the doner apart is its use of lamb or beef, and the meat is left to chill before use.
18. Bocadillo (Spain)
The bocadillo looks like it's going to meet every sandwich craving you have. Thick submarine-style bread? Check. Saucy ketchup and mayo? Check. Layers upon layers of deli meats? Check! Additionally, many places serve it with an omelet inside.
19. Falafel (Egypt)
While you can eat these tasty chickpea-based treats on their own, they are often used as sandwich and wrap fillings. A perfect option for vegetarians, falafels are surprisingly good for you and are deliciously spiced.
20. Vegemite (Australia)
Australia really should apologize for this one, but nonetheless, Vegemite is what you’d consider an acquired taste. Much loved throughout the country, this thick spread is made from brewer’s yeast and is served on toast or between slices.
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