The Saint Paul sandwich, also known as the St. Paul sandwich or the St. Paul, is a type of sandwich that originated in the Midwest, specifically in the city of St. Louis, Missouri. It typically consists of an egg foo young patty, served with mayonnaise, pickles, and sometimes other ingredients such as lettuce, tomato, and cheese, all sandwiched between two slices of white bread. In this article, we will explore the history of the Saint Paul sandwich, its ingredients, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make one.
A Brief History of the Saint Paul Sandwich
The Saint Paul sandwich has its roots in the Chinese-American community of St. Louis, Missouri. The exact origin of the sandwich is unclear, but it is believed to have been created in the early 20th century by Chinese immigrants who owned restaurants in the city’s Chinatown. The sandwich was likely inspired by the traditional Chinese dish, egg foo young, which consists of a thin omelette made with eggs, vegetables, and sometimes meat.
Over time, the Saint Paul sandwich gained popularity in the Midwest, particularly in Missouri and Illinois. It became a staple in many Chinese restaurants and diners, and its unique flavor and texture made it a favorite among locals.
Ingredients of a Traditional Saint Paul Sandwich
A traditional Saint Paul sandwich typically consists of the following ingredients:
- Egg foo young patty: This is the main component of the sandwich, made with eggs, vegetables, and sometimes meat.
- Mayonnaise: This adds a creamy texture and flavor to the sandwich.
- Pickles: Thinly sliced dill pickles are a classic addition to the Saint Paul sandwich.
- White bread: Two slices of soft, white bread are used to hold the sandwich together.
- Lettuce and tomato: These are optional ingredients, but they add freshness and flavor to the sandwich.
- Cheese: Some variations of the Saint Paul sandwich include melted cheese, such as cheddar or American.
Variations of the Saint Paul Sandwich
While the traditional Saint Paul sandwich is delicious on its own, there are many variations that can be made to suit different tastes. Some popular variations include:
- Adding meat: Cooked chicken, beef, or pork can be added to the sandwich for extra protein.
- Using different types of bread: Whole wheat bread or a crusty baguette can add texture and flavor to the sandwich.
- Adding vegetables: Chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms can add flavor and nutrients to the sandwich.
How to Make a Saint Paul Sandwich
Making a Saint Paul sandwich is relatively easy, and can be done in a few simple steps. Here’s a recipe to make a traditional Saint Paul sandwich:
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup chopped vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, and scallions)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 slices of white bread
- Mayonnaise
- Pickles
- Lettuce and tomato (optional)
- Cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Make the egg foo young patty: In a bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the chopped vegetables. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until the eggs are set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip the patty over and cook for another minute.
- Assemble the sandwich: Place one slice of white bread on a flat surface. Spread a layer of mayonnaise on top of the bread. Add the egg foo young patty, followed by a few slices of pickle.
- Add optional ingredients: If using, add lettuce, tomato, and cheese on top of the pickle slices.
- Top with the second slice of bread: Place the second slice of white bread on top of the sandwich, and press gently.
- Serve and enjoy: Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the perfect Saint Paul sandwich:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and eggs will make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the sandwich.
- Don’t overcook the egg foo young patty: The patty should be cooked until it’s just set, and still slightly moist.
- Experiment with different types of bread: Whole wheat bread or a crusty baguette can add texture and flavor to the sandwich.
- Add some heat: If you like spicy food, you can add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sandwich.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making a Saint Paul sandwich:
- Overcooking the egg foo young patty: This can make the patty dry and rubbery.
- Using too much mayonnaise: While mayonnaise is an essential ingredient in the Saint Paul sandwich, too much of it can make the sandwich soggy and overwhelming.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and eggs are essential to the flavor and texture of the sandwich.
Conclusion
The Saint Paul sandwich is a delicious and unique sandwich that originated in the Midwest. With its egg foo young patty, mayonnaise, pickles, and white bread, it’s a flavor combination that’s hard to beat. By following the recipe and tips outlined in this article, you can make a traditional Saint Paul sandwich that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a native Midwesterner or just looking to try something new, the Saint Paul sandwich is definitely worth a try.
What is the Saint Paul Sandwich?
The Saint Paul Sandwich is a type of sandwich that originated in Saint Paul, Minnesota, in the Midwest region of the United States. It typically consists of a combination of ingredients, including egg foo young (a Chinese omelette), served on top of a bed of lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise, all placed between two slices of white bread.
The unique combination of ingredients in the Saint Paul Sandwich may seem unusual to some, but it has become a beloved local favorite in the Midwest. The egg foo young adds a savory and slightly sweet flavor to the sandwich, while the lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise provide a refreshing crunch and creaminess.
Where did the Saint Paul Sandwich originate?
The Saint Paul Sandwich is believed to have originated in the 1950s or 1960s in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The exact origin of the sandwich is unclear, but it is thought to have been created by Chinese-American restaurants in the area as a way to cater to local tastes.
At the time, egg foo young was a popular dish in Chinese restaurants, and the addition of lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise was likely an attempt to make the dish more appealing to American palates. Over time, the Saint Paul Sandwich became a staple of local cuisine, with many restaurants and diners serving their own versions of the sandwich.
What are the main ingredients of the Saint Paul Sandwich?
The main ingredients of the Saint Paul Sandwich are egg foo young, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, and white bread. The egg foo young is typically made with eggs, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood, and is cooked into a thin omelette.
The lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise add freshness and creaminess to the sandwich, while the white bread provides a soft and neutral base for the other ingredients. Some variations of the Saint Paul Sandwich may also include additional ingredients, such as pickles or onions, but the core ingredients remain the same.
Is the Saint Paul Sandwich a Chinese dish?
While the Saint Paul Sandwich features egg foo young, a Chinese dish, it is not strictly a Chinese dish itself. The addition of lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise gives the sandwich a distinctly American flavor profile.
However, the Saint Paul Sandwich does reflect the cultural exchange and fusion that has occurred between Chinese and American cuisines in the Midwest. The sandwich is a unique example of how different culinary traditions can come together to create something new and delicious.
Where can I try a Saint Paul Sandwich?
The Saint Paul Sandwich is a local specialty in the Midwest, particularly in Minnesota and surrounding areas. If you’re looking to try a Saint Paul Sandwich, you may be able to find it on the menu at Chinese restaurants, diners, or cafes in the region.
Some popular restaurants in Saint Paul and Minneapolis are known to serve the sandwich, and it may also be available at local food festivals or events. If you’re not in the Midwest, you may be able to find variations of the Saint Paul Sandwich on menus in other parts of the country.
Can I make a Saint Paul Sandwich at home?
Yes, you can make a Saint Paul Sandwich at home with a few simple ingredients. To start, you’ll need to make or purchase egg foo young, which can be found in many Asian markets or online.
Once you have the egg foo young, you can assemble the sandwich by placing it on top of a bed of lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise, all on white bread. You can also customize the sandwich to your taste by adding additional ingredients or using different types of bread.
Is the Saint Paul Sandwich a popular dish?
The Saint Paul Sandwich is a beloved local favorite in the Midwest, particularly in Minnesota and surrounding areas. While it may not be widely known outside of the region, it has a dedicated following among locals who appreciate its unique flavor and cultural significance.
In recent years, the Saint Paul Sandwich has gained more attention from food enthusiasts and bloggers, who have helped to spread the word about this tasty and unusual dish. As a result, the sandwich is slowly gaining popularity beyond its local roots.