Japanese Egg Salad Sando
Popular sandwich featuring Japanese egg salad.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
The Japanese Egg Salad Sando's history is intertwined with the introduction of Western-style bread and sandwiches to Japan during the Meiji era (1868-1912). While sandwiches weren't originally a staple, they were adopted and adapted, eventually leading to the creation of the now-iconic Tamago Sando.
The Tamago Sando has become a beloved comfort food in Japan, widely available in convenience stores (konbini), cafes, and supermarkets. It's a quick, convenient, and affordable meal that embodies Japanese attention to detail and quality, even in simple preparations.
Konbini Staple
The availability of high-quality Tamago Sando in convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson demonstrates the Japanese commitment to accessible quality food.
Cafe Culture
Many cafes offer elevated versions of the Tamago Sando, showcasing artisanal bread and locally sourced eggs.
Picnic and Bento Favorite
The sandwich is a common component of Japanese picnics and bento boxes, offering a satisfying and portable meal.
The Japanese Egg Salad Sando is characterized by its creamy, slightly sweet, and savory flavor profile. The bread's softness perfectly complements the rich and subtly seasoned egg salad.
The distinct flavor comes from a combination of hard-boiled eggs mashed with Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie), which is richer and tangier than Western mayonnaise due to the use of egg yolks and rice vinegar. A touch of mustard (karashi or Dijon) is sometimes added for subtle spice, and a pinch of sugar enhances the overall sweetness. The shokupan (Japanese milk bread) is crucial, offering a pillowy soft and slightly sweet base that elevates the entire experience. Some variations may include a touch of dashi for umami.
Egg Preparation
Cook the eggs perfectly – hard-boiled with a creamy yolk, not dry or rubbery. Immediately cool the eggs in an ice bath to prevent a green ring from forming around the yolk.
Kewpie Mayonnaise is Key
Use Japanese Kewpie mayonnaise for its distinct richness and tanginess. It's a crucial element in achieving the authentic flavor.
Soft Bread is Essential
Use shokupan or very soft, white bread. The pillowy texture complements the creamy egg salad. Remove the crusts for a more refined presentation.
Seasoning Balance
Taste and adjust the seasoning of the egg salad. The balance of sweetness, saltiness, and mustard (if using) is crucial for optimal flavor.
Resting Time
Allow the sandwich to rest for a few minutes after assembly to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb some of the moisture from the egg salad.
Explore additional Sandwich dishes and restaurants
Explore SandwichDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Vancouver.
Explore VancouverLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of Canada.
Explore Canada