Credit: James Yu http://goo.gl/JvQf9Z

The sandwich is so common it is natural for most people to think of it as a thoroughly modern convenience. Contrary to this perception, however, the sandwich has a long and interesting history.

The Sandwich in its Past Incarnations

Throughout history, versions of the sandwich have made their appearance on dining tables all over the world. The Jewish religious leader, Hillel the Elder (110 BCE, died 10 CE), is said to have placed lamb and herbs between two pieces of unleavened bread during Passover.

In the 17th century, beef that had hung from tavern rafters would be cut into thin slices and placed on buttered bread. Later, in the 18th century, European aristocracy began to serve sandwiches for late dinners when light fare was preferable. [Read more…]

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