Ep 9. Subs

Subs are an iconic part of American cuisine, and in this mouth-watering episode of "United Tastes of America," the host takes us on a delectable journey exploring the history and flavors of submarine sandwiches.

As the episode begins, our charismatic host embarks on a quest to uncover the origins of the subs, starting in a small coastal town in Connecticut. We learn that the roots of this beloved sandwich can be traced back to World War II, when Italian immigrants began serving their traditional flavors on a submarine-shaped roll to the workers at the shipyard. The success and popularity of these sandwiches quickly spread, and the sub was born.

With this historical context in mind, the host travels to various cities across America, each with its own unique take on the classic submarine sandwich. From the bustling streets of New York City, where the delis pride themselves on their towering subs, to the quaint towns of Pennsylvania, known for their hearty and robust flavors, every region has its own twist on this delightful creation.

In New York, the host visits a legendary deli that has been serving subs for generations. They dive deep into the art of making the perfect sub, from selecting the finest meats and cheeses to choosing the bread that will hold all the flavors. We witness the delicate balancing act the skilled deli workers perform as they skillfully layer each ingredient, ensuring that every bite is a harmonious blend of flavors.

Next, the host ventures to Philadelphia, renowned for its mouthwatering cheesesteak subs. Here, they explore the rich history behind the iconic sandwich, from its humble beginnings in local street food to its status as a beloved regional specialty. With an insider's guide, the host meets the owners of several famous cheesesteak joints, learning the secrets behind their signature creations and finding out just what makes a true Philly cheesesteak.

Heading further south, the episode takes us to New Orleans, a city celebrated for its vibrant culinary scene. Here, the host discovers a unique twist on the traditional sub, as they sink their teeth into a "po' boy." They delve into the origins of this delectable sandwich, which originated as a way to support striking streetcar workers. With a variety of fillings, from succulent roast beef to crispy fried shrimp, the po' boy celebrates the flavors of New Orleans while perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the sub.

As the episode nears its end, the host travels to the West Coast, where they explore the modern and innovative takes on subs found in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. In these culinary hotspots, creative chefs experiment with fusion flavors, elevating the humble sub to new heights. The host uncovers some truly tantalizing combinations, from Korean-inspired subs with bulgogi beef and kimchi to vegan-friendly options that feature plant-based proteins and creative condiments.

Throughout the episode, the host not only indulges in the mouth-watering subs but also delves into the cultural significance of this American staple. They speak with local chefs, food historians, and enthusiastic foodies, all of whom share their love and passion for the vast array of sub varieties found across the country. Each sub tells a story and represents the fusion of flavors and traditions that make America's culinary scene so diverse and unique.

In this deliciously informative episode of "United Tastes of America," viewers are taken on a sub-filled adventure, exploring the history, flavors, and regional specialties of America's favorite sandwich. From its origins in Connecticut shipyards to the innovative spin-offs found in cities nationwide, subs truly represent the melting pot of American cuisine, making this episode a tantalizing treat for food lovers everywhere.