Definition of Bikini (mixed sandwich)

If we are in a cafeteria and someone addresses the waiter asking for a bikini, we should not think In the two-piece beach garment, a food is being mentioned, specifically a mixed sandwich.

Elaboration and historical origin of the bikini

The mixed sandwich or bikini is made as follows: between two mold loaves, a piece of ham and another of cheese is inserted. It can be eaten with hot or cold bread depending on the taste of each one. As you can see, it is a very easy food to prepare and does not require any complexity. Those who consume a bikini usually do so because they are in a hurry and cannot waste time on other types of meals. Thus, this food is part of the world of work, especially in Anglo-Saxon countries.

In fact, from a historical point of view, the first references to the mixed sandwich appear in the 19th century. in the United States, as this food was common among fans who attended shows sports. However, at that time the mixed sandwich was not called a bikini, but the terms were ham and cheese sandwich, that is, a ham and cheese sandwich.

As in other areas, the fashion for mixed sandwiches in American culture eventually reached Europe.

It was in Spain, specifically in Barcelona, ​​where the word bikini began to be used to refer to the mixed sandwich. This was brought about by a curious reason: in Barcelona there was a room dance well-known, the Bikini room, in which customers asked for the classic Mixed sandwich and instead of calling it that they gave it the name of the room. This was in the 1950s, a time when traditions from other countries were incorporated into Spanish popular culture due to the tourist boom.

On the other hand, it should be noted that it is logical that this Barcelona room had this name, since the moment of the opening of the premises coincided with the popularity of the first bikinis.

The bikini and the sandwich

In many Spanish-speaking countries there is a curious phenomenon: terms in Spanish are renounced and equivalent words in English are chosen. It is not simply a matter of substitution of words but there is a background cultural more complex. This can be seen with the "rivalry" between bikinis and sandwiches in Spain (the word sandwich is a colloquial referring to the popular sandwich).

The mixed sandwich or bikini is consumed in more select environments and, therefore, is aimed at a clientele with greater purchasing power. On the other hand, the sandwich is more popular and is related to neighborhood life and establishments with affordable prices.

Photos: iStock - clubfoto / BraunS