If you’ve ever visited New York City, there’s a good chance you’ve come across a breakfast sandwich known as the “BEC.” Short for Bacon, Egg, and Cheese, this sandwich is a staple of the city’s morning routine.
But what exactly is a New York egg sandwich, and what makes it so special? In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins of the iconic breakfast sandwich and break down its key ingredients.
The Origins of the BEC
While the BEC has become synonymous with New York City, its origins are somewhat murky. Some believe it was first created in a New York deli in the 1930s, while others trace its roots back to the early 1900s and a similar sandwich known as the “Sunrise Special.”
Regardless of its origins, the BEC quickly became a beloved breakfast option for New Yorkers on the go. It’s convenient, filling, and can be eaten with one hand, making it an ideal choice for busy commuters and office workers.
The Ingredients
So what exactly goes into a New York egg sandwich? The classic version typically includes a fried egg, two strips of bacon, and a slice of American cheese, all sandwiched inside a bagel. Some variations may include sausage or ham instead of bacon, and some New Yorkers prefer their sandwich on a roll rather than a bagel.
While the ingredients may seem simple, the key to a truly great New York egg sandwich lies in the preparation. The bacon should be crispy, the egg cooked to preference (although sunny side up is a popular choice), and the cheese should be melted just right.
Regional Variations
Despite its popularity, the BEC is not without its regional variations. In some parts of New York, it’s common to add ketchup or hot sauce to the sandwich, while others prefer a slice of tomato or avocado for added flavor.
Outside of New York, the egg sandwich may go by different names or feature different ingredients. In the Midwest, for example, a similar sandwich is known as the “McMuffin,” while down south, it’s often served on a biscuit instead of a bagel.
Conclusion
In the end, there’s no denying the iconic status of the New York egg sandwich. Whether you’re a lifelong New Yorker or simply passing through the city on a visit, a BEC is a must-try breakfast option.
So the next time you’re in New York, head to your favorite deli or bodega and order up a classic BEC. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.
FAQ
Are egg sandwiches a New York thing?
The egg sandwich, particularly the bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich, is often considered a New York delicacy. It is the quintessential breakfast of choice for many New Yorkers, while some argue that it is an exclusive part of the culture of the region. The bacon egg and cheese sandwich is to New York what beignets are to New Orleans or tacos to Los Angeles.
The sandwich might seem simple, but it is a beloved part of the New York breakfast experience, a cultural phenomenon, and a staple food item of many delis and bodegas. The sandwich usually consists of scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and yellow American cheese on a Kaiser roll or a poppy seed bagel. Foodies and locals alike argue that it is the ultimate hangover food, and it has earned the reputation for being a cure-all for any late-night indulgences.
While the origin of the bacon egg and cheese sandwich is not clear, it has been a staple of New York’s breakfast culture for decades. It has become so popular that many cafes and restaurants around the country have started to offer their take on the classic sandwich. However, it has been argued that, like the Philly cheesesteak, only a genuine New Yorker can make the perfect bacon egg and cheese sandwich.
The prominence of this sandwich is linked to the fast-paced lifestyle of New York City. The sandwich is often eaten on-the-go, grabbed quickly in the morning on the way to work or school. The city’s food carts, delis, and bodegas offer the perfect breakfast option for those who need a quick, tasty, and filling meal to power through the day. The sandwich has become a significant part of the city’s culinary identity, where the quest for the best bacon egg and cheese sandwich is like a holy grail quest for many foodies and locals alike.
The iconic bacon egg and cheese sandwich is indeed a New York cultural phenomenon. While other cities may replicate the sandwich’s ingredients and appearance, it remains a quintessential part of the New York breakfast experience. The sandwich’s reputation is unmatched and continues to be a crucial part of the city’s food culture to this day.
What do they call a breakfast sandwich in New York?
New York City is known for its bustling streets, diverse population, and iconic cuisine. One of the popular foods is New York-style breakfast sandwich. This classic breakfast sandwich typically consists of bacon, egg, and cheese, all piled high on a toasted roll or bagel.
New Yorkers affectionately refer to this breakfast sandwich as “BEC,” which stands for bacon, egg, and cheese. The BEC can be found in a variety of places, from corner delis to food trucks to well-known diners and cafes. It is a staple of the New York City breakfast scene, and a quick and satisfying breakfast choice for many busy New Yorkers.
There are variations of the BEC as well, with some adding a slice of tomato or avocado, or swapping out bacon for sausage or ham. Nonetheless, the foundation remains the same: a hearty breakfast sandwich that packs a punch, to fuel one’s day in the city that never sleeps.
The New York-style breakfast sandwich, or BEC, is a iconic culinary creation in the city, that has become a beloved choice for busy mornings. The combination of bacon, egg, and cheese on a toasted roll or bagel offers a delicious and fulfilling option for those in search of a quick breakfast to take on the day ahead.
What do people in New York call a bacon, egg, and cheese?
If you ever find yourself in New York City, you might be confused if someone offers you a “BEC.” But fear not, “BEC” stands for the classic breakfast sandwich that’s beloved by New Yorkers, the bacon, egg, and cheese. This sandwich is a staple food in many delis and bodegas across New York and has become an iconic part of the city’s food culture.
If you’re not from New York, you might be wondering what makes this particular sandwich so special. The bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich is served on a roll, with crispy bacon, a fried egg, and a slice of melted cheese. It’s a simple but delicious combination that can be customized to your liking, whether you prefer your eggs over easy or scrambled.
The sandwich is often served on a Kaiser roll or a plain bagel, but some places may offer alternative bread options like ciabatta or croissants. It’s also common for people to add additional toppings like avocado, hot sauce, or even hash browns.
One particular quirk about New Yorkers and the BEC is how they order it. For instance, if a New Yorker orders an “bacon, egg, and cheese on a roll” it means they want American cheese, whereas if they order “bacon, egg, and cheese on a hero” they want cheddar cheese. There are countless iterations and variations of the sandwich in different parts of the city, but one thing is certain, it’s a favorite among locals.
In recent years, with the changing economy and gentrification, the cost of the iconic bodega breakfast sandwich has increased. It’s still affordable, but the price is certainly higher than what it used to be. Nonetheless, the bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich continues to thrive in New York and remains a go-to meal for New Yorkers on the go.
