Sliders

Burgers have long been an iconic staple of American cuisine. While everyone is familiar with the classic full-sized hamburger, did you know that American burgers also come in a mini version called Sliders? Today, Rimping Supermarket will take you on a deep dive into the origins and charm of this popular mini-burger.

What are "Sliders" and Their Origin at White Castle?

Sliders are what Americans call small burgers with a diameter of approximately 2 inches. Generally, they look exactly like full-sized burgers, just smaller. Historically, it is believed that the term "Sliders" was first used for these small burgers at White Castle, the oldest hamburger chain in the United States, founded in 1921 in Wichita, Kansas, by Walter Anderson and Edgar Waldo.

Initially, Sliders were created to promote White Castle's famous burgers. They adjusted the size of the burgers, made them square-shaped, and sold them for only 5 cents each. However, these small burgers proved to be incredibly popular because their affordability made them accessible to a wide range of people, especially the working class. Their popularity surged even more during the Great Depression.

The term "Sliders" was coined for these mini-burgers because, in their early days of sale, employees would "slide" these small burgers down the bar or counter to serve customers. This unique service style garnered much attention, thus earning these small burgers the name "Sliders."

The Spread and Evolution of Sliders

Over the years, the concept of slider mini-burgers spread across the United States. Other restaurants began offering their own versions, each with unique flavors and toppings. Due to their perfect, easy-to-eat size, slider mini-burgers became a popular snack option in restaurants, bars, and parties.

In the 1980s, slider mini-burgers gained significant popularity in high-end restaurants. Chefs in these establishments began to offer diverse forms of Sliders using premium ingredients such as Kobe beef, truffles, and special buns. These new culinary creations elevated sliders to another level, transforming them from an inexpensive food to a gourmet item.

Sliders in a Global Context and Today

However, the concept of slider mini-burgers is not limited to America. Internationally, mini-burgers can be found in many cultures. For example:

• In Japan, they are called yōshoku sliders, which are sliders with a Japanese twist, often incorporating ingredients like teriyaki sauce, mayonnaise, wasabi, or pickled vegetables, adding an Asian flavor.
• In the United Kingdom, they are often referred to as Mini burgers or Mini beef burgers, as they are mostly made from beef. They are commonly served in pubs and bars as snacks alongside drinks.
  
  Today, sliders continue to evolve and remain a favorite for people at parties, sporting events, and various restaurants, as well as fast-food trucks. They offer a convenient, affordable, and satisfying meal option. With their perfect bite-sized portions and a variety of fillings and toppings, Sliders continue to be popular.