Craving a taste of Japan? Indulge in the delightful flavors of a Japanese Egg Sandwich, also known as Tamago Sando. This simple yet delicious sandwich features fluffy egg salad nestled between soft slices of shokupan (Japanese milk bread). Perfect for a quick lunch or snack, Tamago Sando is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a classic Japanese treat.
Ingredients List
Egg Filling Ingredients
- 3 large eggs (50 g each without shell)
- ¼ tsp sugar
- ¼ tsp Diamond Crystal kosher salt
- ⅛ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tsp milk
- 2 Tbsp Japanese Kewpie mayonnaise
Sandwich Ingredients
- 4 slices shokupan (Japanese milk bread) or homemade shokupan (cut into 8 slices)
- Salted butter
Required Kitchen Tools
Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have these kitchen tools on hand for a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience:
- Mixing Bowls:
Essential for whisking the eggs and mixing the egg salad ingredients. - Whisk:
Perfect for blending the egg mixture smoothly. - Small Saucepan:
For boiling the eggs to the perfect consistency. - Spatula:
Useful for spreading the egg salad and butter evenly on the bread. - Toaster or Grill Pan:
Optional, for toasting the shokupan slices.
With these tools ready, you’ll be set to create a delicious Tamago Sando in no time.
Egg Filling Preparation
Preparing the perfect egg filling is crucial for a delicious Tamago Sando. Follow these steps to make a creamy and flavorful egg salad:
Boiling the Eggs
Start by boiling the eggs. Place the eggs in a small saucepan and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, let the eggs cook for 10-12 minutes. This ensures the yolks are fully cooked and firm. After boiling, transfer the eggs to an ice water bath to cool them down quickly. Once cooled, peel the eggs and set them aside.
Making the Egg Salad
To prepare the egg salad, chop the boiled eggs into small pieces and place them in a mixing bowl. Add the sugar, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and milk to the eggs. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined. Finally, add the Japanese Kewpie mayonnaise and gently fold it into the mixture. The mayonnaise gives the egg salad a creamy and rich texture, making it perfect for the sandwich.
Assembling the Japanese Egg Sandwich (Tamago Sando)
Now that the egg salad is ready, it’s time to assemble the Tamago Sando. Follow these steps to create the perfect sandwich:
Preparing the Bread
Start by preparing the shokupan slices. Shokupan is a soft, fluffy Japanese milk bread that adds a delightful texture to the sandwich. You can use store-bought shokupan or make your own at home. If you prefer toasted bread, lightly toast the shokupan slices in a toaster or on a grill pan until they are golden brown. Toasting is optional, but it adds a nice crunch to the sandwich.
Spreading the Egg Salad
Next, generously spread the egg salad onto two slices of shokupan. Be sure to evenly distribute the egg salad, so every bite is filled with its creamy goodness. You can adjust the thickness of the egg salad layer according to your preference. If you like a thicker filling, add a bit more egg salad.
Adding Butter
For an extra layer of richness, spread a thin layer of salted butter on the remaining two slices of shokupan. The butter not only enhances the flavor but also adds a smooth texture to the sandwich. Place the buttered slices on top of the egg salad-covered slices, with the buttered side facing down, to complete the sandwich.
Cutting and Serving the Japanese Egg Sandwich (Tamago Sando)
With the sandwiches assembled, it’s time to cut and serve them. This step not only makes the sandwiches easier to eat but also adds to their visual appeal.
Cutting the Sandwiches
Traditionally, Tamago Sando is cut into neat halves or quarters, showcasing the creamy egg salad filling. To achieve a clean cut, use a sharp knife and cut the sandwich in one smooth motion. You can cut the sandwiches diagonally for triangle shapes or straight down the middle for rectangles. For a classic Japanese presentation, you can also trim the crusts off the shokupan, leaving smooth edges.
Presentation and Serving
Arrange the cut sandwiches on a plate, allowing the vibrant egg salad to be visible. This not only looks appealing but also makes it easy to grab and enjoy. You can serve the Tamago Sando as is or with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad. For an authentic Japanese touch, consider serving with a cup of green tea.
Storage and Tips for Japanese Egg Sandwich (Tamago Sando)
To enjoy your Tamago Sando at its best, follow these storage tips and additional suggestions for a perfect sandwich experience.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration: If you have any leftover sandwiches, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Tamago Sando can be kept fresh for up to 1 day. For the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to consume them on the same day they’re made, as the bread can become soggy over time due to the egg salad filling.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for Tamago Sando, as the egg salad and bread may lose their texture and become unappetizing when thawed.
Tips for the Perfect Tamago Sando
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the ingredients, especially the eggs and shokupan, makes a big difference. Fresh, high-quality eggs will give a rich flavor and vibrant color to the egg salad.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add a pinch of sugar for a subtle sweetness or a dash of mustard for a tangy kick.
- Experiment with Add-ins: For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding chopped herbs like parsley or chives to the egg salad. You can also mix in finely diced cucumbers or radishes for extra crunch.
- Serving Suggestions: Tamago Sando pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a light soup, salad, or even a side of pickled vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Tamago Sando is a delightful Japanese egg sandwich that offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a snack, this recipe is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy a taste of Japan at home. Remember to use fresh ingredients, adjust the seasoning to your preference, and have fun experimenting with different variations. Enjoy your Tamago Sando fresh and savor the creamy egg salad nestled between soft slices of shokupan.