Maine Italian sandwich facts for kids
The Maine Italian sandwich is a super popular and tasty sandwich from Maine, USA! It's a type of submarine sandwich, which means it's made on a long bread roll. People often call it just an "Italian sandwich." This delicious meal was first created in Portland, Maine, way back in 1903 by a baker named Giovanni Amato.
What's Inside a Maine Italian Sandwich?
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A traditional Maine Italian sandwich starts with a long bread roll. Inside, you'll find different kinds of sliced meats. These often include salami, mortadella, capicola, and ham.
Next comes the cheese, usually provolone. Then, fresh vegetables like tomato slices, onion, and green bell pepper are added. Don't forget the Greek olives!
To finish it off, a drizzle of olive oil or salad oil is added, along with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Sometimes, extra ingredients like pepperoni, banana pepper, or lettuce are included. The sandwich is often cut in half, making it easier to hold and eat. All these ingredients work together to create a perfect balance of flavors!
The Story Behind the Maine Italian Sandwich
The Maine Italian sandwich was invented in Portland, Maine, in 1903. A baker named Giovanni Amato came up with the idea. He used to sell his fresh bread from a street cart.
Dockworkers, who worked hard loading and unloading ships, would ask Giovanni to slice his long bread rolls. They wanted him to add sliced meats, cheese, and vegetables inside. This was a quick and easy lunch for them!
Giovanni Amato later opened his own sandwich shop called Amato's. Even today, Amato's shops still make this famous sandwich. Their version usually has fresh-baked bread, ham, American cheese, tomato, onions, green pepper, sour pickles, Kalamata olives, and salad oil. It's a true taste of Maine history!
