Do you remember sitting at the Woolworth’s Lunch Counter and enjoying a warm Steak-UMM sandwich? Montreal, where I come from, was the only place we could enjoy this. It wasn’t on the menu of any other restaurant I visited as a young person. As a result, it was a sought-after delight.
For many, the Woolworth’s Lunch Counter was more than just a place to eat; it was a cherished memory. Families would gather, friends would chat, and the aroma of grilled meat would waft through the air, creating an atmosphere of comfort and joy. This experience of enjoying a Steak-UMM sandwich was not merely about the meal itself, but about the moments shared around it, making it a staple in the hearts of many.
Learning to recreate these flavours at home became a rite of passage for me. I recall those first attempts, the sound of the sizzling meat hitting the pan, the smoky aroma filling the kitchen, and the anticipation of that first bite. It was an experiment that turned into a tradition, one that my wife and I have enjoyed passing down to our children, who now relish the same steak sandwiches we once did.
My girlfriend at the time (now my wife of over 40 years) and I devoured these sandwiches, and I soon learned to make them at home. This became even more necessary as Woolworth’s closed a few years later.
The nostalgia associated with Steak-UMM is profound; for those who may have lived in areas where this delicacy was scarce, discovering it in a local grocery store felt like striking gold. It opened the door to recreating memories of simpler times, where meals were shared, stories were told, and laughter echoed around the table. Cooking these sandwiches is not just about feeding the body; it’s about nourishing the soul and rekindling cherished memories.
The original Steak-UMM frozen meat was sold locally for many years, and then it wasn’t. A year ago, I found that M&M Food Market sold almost the same product under their label in Canada. If you can get the original where you live, get that, but this recipe can be used with either interchangeably.
Understanding the Steak-UMM Experience
The innovation behind Steak-UMM’s creation is remarkable, as it not only addressed the need for a convenient meal option but also catered to the evolving tastes of American families. By focusing on a product that was safe for children, Gagliardi tapped into a burgeoning market of busy parents seeking quick meal solutions without compromising on taste or quality. This foresight not only fostered loyalty among consumers but also ensured that Steak-UMM remained relevant as societal dining habits changed.
As we delve deeper into the 1980s, it’s essential to recognise how Steak-UMM became a cultural phenomenon during this era. With the rise of fast food and convenience meals, Steak-UMM positioned itself as a home-cooked solution that appealed to both children and parents. Ads would feature families enjoying meals together, tapping into the growing desire for connection amid many adopting a fast-paced lifestyle. This marketing strategy helped solidify Steak-UMM’s place in the heart of American households.
Moreover, Steak-UMM’s reputation as a quick meal option made it a go-to for teens, particularly during the explosive growth of television culture in the 80s. Many watched their favourite shows while enjoying easy-to-make Steak-UMM sandwiches, further embedding the product into the fabric of American life. The brand didn’t just sell a product; it sold an experience, a memory, and a slice of life.
In today’s context, Steak-UMM has successfully navigated the complexities of modern marketing and social media. Their ability to engage with consumers online has revitalised the brand, allowing it to connect with younger generations who may not have experienced the joy of a Steak-UMM sandwich in its heyday. The clever use of memes and relatable content creates a sense of community among fans, making them feel part of an ongoing legacy.
Today, many families still enjoy Steak-UMM sandwiches as a quick meal option, and its resurgence is a testament to its enduring appeal. The blend of nostalgia and convenience ensures that it remains relevant for both older generations reminiscing about their childhood and younger generations discovering it for the first time. The future of Steak-UMM looks promising, as it continues to adapt to changing tastes while maintaining the essence that made it a beloved product.
The Steak-UMM experience transcends the actual consumption of the sandwich, as it embodies a sense of community and togetherness. For many, including myself, it represents a connection to family histories and shared moments. The preparation process, from frying the meat to melting the cheese, becomes an event in its own right. We often find ourselves gathering around the kitchen, reminiscing while we cook, planning elaborate toppings to elevate the traditional sandwich into something extraordinary.
Woolworth’s Steak UMM Sandwich
Equipment
- 1 skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pkg Steak-UMM Sliced Steaks or M&M Food Markets Philly Beef Steak
- 1 small onion
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 to taste salt & pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped lettuce
- 3-4 slices cheese
- 2-3 submarine rolls
- 1 sweet pepper
Instructions
- Split open the roll and heat in a warm oven
- In a skillet cook the onion and pepper in the vegetable oil
- set aside
- Cook the steaks as directed on the package
- Place a slice or (to taste) of cheese on the bottom half of the bread
- Place the steak over the cheese
- Top the steak with the onion and pepper mixture
- add some lettuce and close the roll
Notes
The Birth of Steak-umm
Steak-umm was invented in 1968 by food innovator Gene Gagliardi Jr., who wanted to create a more family-friendly sandwich steak product. Gagliardi’s process involved running tough cow meat through a meat grinder, extracting the protein to create a solid mass, and then freezing and slicing the meat. This resulted in a frozen tender product that could be sold and virtually eliminated the choking hazards of traditional Philly cheesesteaks. A friend suggested the name “Steak-umm” during a quail hunting trip, and the product was launched in 1975.
Rise to Popularity
By 1980, Steak-umm was the #1 selling frozen meat product in the retailer’s freezers, according to Gagliardi. The brand’s success led to Heinz buying the company for $20 million that same year. Steak-umm became a household name, especially as an easy meal for latchkey kids in the 70s and 80s. The convenience and quick cooking time (30 seconds per side) made it a staple. As of 2006 the Steak-umm brand is owned by Quaker Maid Meats a family owned company based in Reading, PA.
Cultural Impact and Today
Steak-umm has made its mark on American pop culture by appearing on TV shows like American Dad, The Goldbergs, and Saturday Night Live. In 1981 Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) from “A Christmas Story” appeared in a Steak-umm commercial, and it’s been in American cultural memory ever since. The brand has adapted to the modern times and has a viral persona on social media since 2017. Steak-umm is still popular today, especially on the US East Coast, where sales have increased 20% in the last few years. It’s still convenient and nostalgic and bridges the gap between generations of Americans.
