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Soup and sandwich facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Soup, sandwich and chips (cropped)
A yummy soup and sandwich meal, with chips!

The soup and sandwich is a classic combination meal that brings together a warm soup and a tasty sandwich. This simple yet satisfying meal has been super popular in the United States since the 1920s. Some restaurant chains even focus on serving just this meal. You can also find it as a ready-to-eat frozen meal in stores.

Why People Love Soup and Sandwiches

Grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup
A grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup

The soup and sandwich combo is very common in the United States. You can choose how big your meal is. Maybe you want half a sandwich or a whole one. And your soup can come in a small cup or a bigger bowl.

A super popular example is a warm grilled cheese sandwich with creamy tomato soup. Many people think this combo is a real "comfort food". It's like a warm hug on a plate!

A Look Back: History of the Combo

The soup and sandwich meal became a favorite lunch in the United States in the 1920s. It was, and still is, a common dish at American luncheonettes and diners.

Years ago, some U.S. department stores even had dining rooms where this meal was popular for lunch. Today, people sometimes eat it as a light dinner too. Many soup kitchens, churches, and groups that help others often give this meal to people who need it.

Restaurants That Specialize in Soup and Sandwiches

Some American restaurants are famous for their soup and sandwich meals. Places like the Panera Bread Company, Hale and Hearty, and Zoup! are good examples. These are all restaurant chains.

In September 2016, Panera Bread had over 2,000 stores in North America. They were also planning to deliver food to more customers. Zoup! had 96 stores in the United States in October 2016. Most of these were franchise stores, meaning they are owned by individuals who pay to use the Zoup! name and system.

Soup and Sandwich as Prepared Meals

The soup and sandwich combo has also been made in large amounts and sold to people across the country. One example was the Campbell's Souper Combo. This was a frozen soup and sandwich meal.

At first, many people bought it because they were curious. But after a while, fewer people bought it. The Souper Combo was not sold for very long and was eventually stopped.

Stouffer's Corner Bistro stuffed melt sandwich and broccoli cheddar soup
A Stouffer's frozen prepared soup and sandwich meal after heating

Another example is the Corner Bistro line. These are frozen soup and sandwich meals sold under the Stouffer's brand. Their sandwiches are made as stuffed melt sandwiches, which means they have fillings inside and are often grilled or heated until the cheese melts.

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