The Dual Meaning of 'Toast': A Ferdinand of Sandwiches and Toast
When discussing the term 'toast,' it is important to distinguish between its origin and usage in spoken language versus its more culinary significance. Through an exploration of historical and contemporary usage, one can unravel the tangled yet fascinating world of toast.
Origins and Early Uses
The first recorded toast in England took place in 450 A.D., during a feast in honor of British King Vortigern, hosted by Hengist, the leader of his Saxon allies. This early gesture marked the beginning of a tradition that has endured to the present day.
The term 'toast' finds its roots in the 14th century, derived from the Old French word 'toster.' In medieval France, a guest was welcomed at their arrival with a 'tostée,' a piece of bread and a glass of wine. This likely alluded to the Christian tradition associated with the Last Supper, symbolizing the sharing of sustenance and fellowship.
A toast, in its simplest definition, is browning something in front of a fire or in modern terms, under the grill or in a toaster. This process can be an adjective, as in a toasted slice of bread, or a verb, as in the act of toasting. Another meaning arises when lifting one's glass in celebration, often in the context of congratulating someone, such as the bride and groom at a wedding. This can be found in any good English dictionary.
The Rise of the Toastie
The term 'toastie' is often encountered differently depending on the region. In England, for instance, the term is not commonly used, while in Australia it is widespread. In these parts of the world, 'toastie' refers to a grilled sandwich, which is a colloquial variation of toasted sandwiches. Specifically, it is a shorter term for toasted sandwiches, highlighting the grilling process rather than the toasting tradition.
A suitable grilled cheese sandwich, crafted correctly, can indeed be classified as a toastie in the UK, despite it not being a strictly English term. The name traces back to a specific type of sandwich toaster popularized in the 1970s and early 1980s. Breville was among the first to market such devices, recognizing a growing demand for toasting convenience. These toasters featured a distinctive design with self-sealing triangular slots for holding bread.
Though the classic toasting sandwich toaster is now an outdated artifact, modern versions still exist with multiple toasting units and different designs, further identifying a difference from a UK toastie to its American counterparts or a boxer’s grill. Beyond cheese, fillings such as Heinz beans, ham, egg, and Branston pickle are frequently used, with cheese remaining a popular choice.
The name 'toastie' emerges from the advertisers' clever marketing, emphasizing the toasting aspect of the sandwich toaster. This branding and marketing strategy led to the creation of bread loaves designed specifically for these devices, often referred to as 'toastie loaves.' These innovations illustrate how language and culinary practices can evolve through cultural shifts and commercial interests.
Whether you are enjoying a traditional toast served with a glass of wine or a modern toastie stuffed with your favorite fillings, the term 'toast' has evolved to encompass a wide range of meanings and practices. From a formal gesture of celebration to a convenient and enjoyable meal, the term 'toast' remains a versatile and cherished part of our language and culture.