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You’ve probably had a few deli sandwiches in your day, but have you ever wondered when they originated? Whether you’re eager to know how it all began or just want to impress your friends with some fun facts, Fortuna’s Deli and Caterers of Westport, CT, can help.

Here, they’ve compiled a brief history of the celebrated deli sandwich.

The History of the Sandwich

deli sandwichesAccording to the Oxford English Dictionary, a sandwich is “an item of food consisting of two pieces of bread with a filling between them, eaten as a light meal.” Most people think the sandwich was invented by John Montagu, the fourth Earl of Sandwich, in the late 1700s. However, sandwiches were around much earlier than that—they just didn’t have a name. French farm laborers used to eat meat between two slices of bread, but the sandwich probably went back even further.

While we don’t know exactly when the sandwich was created, we do know when the term was coined. The first recording of the word sandwich is attributed to Edward Gibbon, who wrote The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire. He used the term in his journal on November 24, 1762. As members of London’s social scene, Montagu and Gibbon may have known each other, and the former may have introduced his acquaintance to the concept.

The History of the Deli

The term “deli” originated from the word “delicatessen,” which comes from the Latin term “delicatus,” meaning “luxurious.” Originally from Germany, Jewish immigrants brought delis to the United States, and they rose in popularity in the 1920s and 1930s. The sons and daughters of these immigrants became the primary operators and customers of delis throughout New York City, making the deli synonymous with the area.

After World War I, delis began to spread and eventually became part of mainstream culture. After World War II, deli foods were available in supermarkets, allowing people to enjoy deli sandwiches in the comfort of their homes.

The Pickle Tradition

As far back as 2400 BC, pickles were considered a delicacy. Jewish immigrants—the same ones that brought delis to New York—also helped develop the popularity of the pickle. They regarded these treats as palate cleansers, using the acidity to contrast the meaty flavors in their sandwiches. While it’s unknown where the inclusion of the pickle began, it quickly became customary in the Jewish delis of New York.

Deli sandwiches began as a New York City staple, but they eventually merged into mainstream culture across the country. Fortuna’s Deli and Caterers of Westport has been a proud part of this tradition in Westport, CT, since 1975. Check out their menu on their website, or call (203) 226-3587 to learn more about their delicious deli sandwiches.

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