Few sandwiches are as connected to the history and culture of their country of origin. The origins of Sabich date back to the decade when Jewish immigrants from neighboring countries moved to Israel, bringing with them typical ingredients and aromas of Shabbat. What initially was a Jewish dish quickly adapted to the local cuisine until it became a true sandwich thanks to the addition of laffa (bread), a pizza-like bread more famous than pita. The name Sabich dates back to the time when the sandwich became rooted in the Jewish community and began to be prepared and sold as street food. Like everything else in Israel, which deserves true religious devotion, the dish was a popular breakfast in Iraq, and the name is a variation of the Arabic word "para ma'ana" which means "for tomorrow," sabach. Others believe the dish was named after its creator, a Iraqi Jewish immigrant named Sabich who opened a small shop in Ramat Gan in 1961 to sell his magical creation.
With mango, a Yemeni-Jewish sauce called skhug is prepared, made from red or green peppers mixed with fresh cilantro, garlic, and spices, along with an Iraqi-Indian sauce called amba, similar to chutney, made with mango and spices. The mango may seem out of context, even for a multi-ethnic country like Israel, but there is an explanation for this ingredient. The amba sauce is what makes this dish magical. But there is a history behind this.
Since the Middle Ages, Iraqi merchants have been heavily trading with India, where Iraqi Jewish communities still exist today, and they brought with them, first to Iraq and then to Israel, some ingredients unknown at the time but adopted during their voyages, such as mango.
Sabich proved to be a bold stroke of genius, a genuine Middle Eastern flavor, quick to assemble, and full of taste. Its mastery within the local culinary scene is so absolute that it notably taught Israelis how to line up at local stands to buy it. Whatever variant of Sabich you choose, this tasty snack represents a unique dish capable of delighting you with its charming balance of flavors and unmistakable Middle Eastern aroma. Enjoy your meal!
