TASTE with David Rosengarten: The Story Behind France’s Most Flavorful Sandwich – Pan Bagnat (1996)

In this 1996 episode of TASTE, host David Rosengarten dives deep into the origins and delicious evolution of the Provençal classic, Pan Bagnat — the ultimate soaked sandwich from the South of France. 🇫🇷🥖

***The tomatoes in this look AMAZING.

Originally a way to use stale bread, this flavor-packed dish transforms simple ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, anchovies, tuna, olives, and hard-boiled eggs into a satisfying and rustic sandwich that’s marinated in olive oil and vinegar until every bite is soaked with Mediterranean goodness.

Watch David prepare two standout versions of Pan Bagnat:
✔ A traditional salad-style sandwich with anchovies and basil
✔ A more creative spin featuring lemon zest, arugula, roasted red peppers, and a zesty anchovy dressing

Plus, learn about the cultural history of Pan Bagnat, its connection to Niçoise salad, and why it's still beloved as a midday snack across Nice today.

Guests:
This episode also features contributions from culinary voices like Sissy Biggers and more, bringing fresh perspective to traditional French fare.

📌 Perfect for fans of French cooking, rustic bread, travel-inspired recipes, and 90s culinary TV nostalgia.

🔪 Recipes include:
• Classic Pan Bagnat (Niçoise-style sandwich)
• Sarah Leah Chase’s elevated version with lemon zest & arugula
• How to build party-size Pan Bagnat wedges

👨‍🍳 From Dean & DeLuca cookbook tips to Provençal authenticity, this episode is a flavor trip through time and tradition.

00:00 – Introduction to Pan Bagnat
00:39 – Origins: Provençal Salad with Stale Bread
02:12 – Creating the Traditional Salad
03:47 – Assembling the Original Pan Bagnat Sandwich
06:10 – Evolution to the Niçoise-Style Pan Bagnat
07:25 – Choosing the Right Bread
08:54 – Building the Classic Dean & DeLuca Pan Bagnat
11:48 – Tips for Flavor & Olive Pitting Tools
13:25 – Tuna Mixture & Anchovy Layer
14:40 – Final Assembly & Wrapping
15:33 – Pan Bagnat Party-Size Variation
17:10 – Creative Version by Sarah Leah Chase
18:30 – Bright Lemon-Basil Tuna Filling
20:03 – Roasted Peppers & Arugula Layer
20:57 – Party Sandwich Reveal
21:42 – Tasting & Final Thoughts

1996.