8 Unique Facts About Sandwiches You Probably Didn't Know About

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1. The term "sandwich" originates from John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, who was known for his love of gambling. He would request his meat to be placed between slices of bread so he could continue playing without using utensils.

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2. The first recorded sandwich-like meal dates back to the 1st century B.C., when the Jewish sage Hillel the Elder placed a mixture of chopped nuts, apples, spices, and wine between two matzahs during Passover.

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3. The sandwich's popularity soared in the 18th century due to its convenience. Soldiers and sailors found it easy to carry and consume, leading to its widespread adoption.

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4. Sandwiches take on various forms around the world, from the Vietnamese banh mi to the Mexican torta, showcasing cultural diversity in culinary innovation.

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5. The first known sandwich recipe appeared in a cookbook titled "The Modern Housewife" by Isabella Beeton in 1861, which featured instructions for making a ham sandwich.

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6. Astronaut John Young smuggled a corned beef sandwich aboard the Gemini 3 spacecraft in 1965. This led to NASA creating strict food safety protocols to prevent future incidents.

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7. In 2005, a group in Lebanon created the world's largest sandwich, measuring over 1,989 meters (6,525 feet) long. It contained ingredients like turkey, cheese, lettuce, and mayonnaise.

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8. Sandwiches can be made with an almost endless variety of fillings, from classic options like peanut butter and jelly to innovative combinations like grilled cheese with apple slices or avocado and bacon.

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These fascinating facts highlight the rich history and global appeal of the humble sandwich.

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