Grinder

Grinder is a variety of a submarine sandwich and it is especially popular in New England. The sandwich consists of a long roll that resembles Italian bread, but the interior is much chewier and the exterior is crustier. The roll is sliced halfway and filled with olive oil, sliced ham, turkey, salami, or prosciutto, provolone cheese, tomatoes, and lettuce. The lettuce should always be shredded for a real New England grinder, while the tomatoes and onions should be sliced paper thin. After the sandwich has been filled, it is sometimes dressed with vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Today, any kind of hot or cold sandwich is often called a grinder if it is served on a grinder roll. It is believed that the sandwich got its name after the fact that people have to grind their teeth while chewing the crusty bread.