Japanese Egg Sandwich (Tamago Sando)
Japanese Egg Sandwich, or Tamago Sando, is a simple yet delightful dish that has become a favorite among many. It is a delicious combination of creamy egg salad sandwiched between soft, fluffy bread. This humble sandwich is often found in convenience stores across Japan, loved for its comforting texture and rich flavor. It is not just a lunch option but also makes for a tasty snack that can be enjoyed any time of day.
Why Make This Recipe
You might wonder why you should try making a Japanese Egg Sandwich at home. Firstly, it is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking skills, you can create a meal that is both satisfying and flavorful.
The ingredients are quite simple and can be found in most grocery stores. You can enjoy the fresh taste of eggs combined with the creaminess of Japanese mayonnaise. Unlike many other sandwiches, the Japanese Egg Sandwich does not require any special tools or techniques. Plus, it’s customizable! You can add herbs, spices, or other ingredients to suit your taste.
Another reason to make this sandwich is that it can save you money. Buying lunch out every day can quickly add up. By making this sandwich at home, you can enjoy gourmet flavors for a fraction of the price. It’s also perfect for meal prep. You can make several sandwiches ahead of time and keep them for quick lunches during the week.
Lastly, this sandwich reflects Japanese culture’s appreciation for simplicity and quality ingredients. Making your own Tamago Sando allows you to experience a piece of that culture right in your kitchen.
How to Make Japanese Egg Sandwich (Tamago Sando)
Making a Japanese Egg Sandwich is an enjoyable process. Here’s how to do it step by step.
Ingredients
To make the perfect Japanese Egg Sandwich, you will need the following ingredients:
- 6 large Pete and Gerry’s Organic Eggs: These eggs are known for their rich flavor and high quality.
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar: This adds a slight sweetness to balance the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the overall taste of the egg filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: This adds a bit of spice to the egg salad.
- 1 to 2 teaspoons milk (or plant milk – Optional): This ingredient makes the egg salad creamier.
- 4 tablespoons Japanese mayonnaise: Japanese mayonnaise is richer and smoother than regular mayonnaise.
- 4 slices Japanese milk bread: This soft bread is perfect for a delightful sandwich.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened): Butter adds richness to the sandwich and helps in grilling.
- Chives (sliced – for garnish): Chives add a touch of green and a mild onion flavor (Optional).
Directions
To Make the Egg Salad
Boil the Eggs: Begin by placing the eggs in a pot and covering them with water. Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the eggs sit for about 12 minutes.
Prepare Ice Bath: While the eggs are cooking, prepare a bowl of ice water. This ice bath will help stop the cooking process and make the eggs easier to peel.
Peel the Eggs: After 12 minutes, transfer the eggs to the ice bath. Let them cool for about 5 minutes. Once cool, gently crack the egg shells and peel them under running water to make it easier.
Chop the Eggs: Place the peeled eggs in a mixing bowl. Use a fork to mash them until they reach a chunky consistency.
Mix Ingredients: Add sugar, salt, ground black pepper, milk (if using), and Japanese mayonnaise to the mashed eggs. Stir everything together until well combined.
To Cook and Assemble the Sandwich
Prepare the Bread: Take out your Japanese milk bread. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice.
Grill the Bread: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the slices of bread butter-side down onto the skillet. Grill until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
Fill the Sandwich: Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the skillet. On the unbuttered side of one slice, add a generous amount of the egg salad. Place another slice of bread on top, butter-side up.
Optional Grilling: If you prefer a warm sandwich, place the sandwich back in the skillet and grill for another 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and heated through.
Slice and Garnish: Remove the sandwich from the skillet. You can garnish with sliced chives if desired. Slice the sandwich in half or quarters for easy eating.
To Store
If you have leftover egg salad, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For sandwiches made with egg salad, it’s best to consume them on the same day. If you want to prepare ahead, store the egg salad separately and assemble the sandwich just before eating.
How to Serve Japanese Egg Sandwich (Tamago Sando)
The Japanese Egg Sandwich can be served in various ways. It is great as a light lunch or as part of a picnic. You can pair it with a bowl of miso soup or some fresh salad for a complete meal. Additionally, it can be served as a snack during the day or as finger food at parties.
For a delightful experience, serve the sandwiches with a cup of green tea. The flavor of green tea complements the richness of the egg salad, making for a lovely combination.
How to Store Japanese Egg Sandwich (Tamago Sando)
If you like to prepare your meals in advance, here’s how to store your Tamago Sando. The best practice is to store the egg salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 days.
If you have assembled sandwiches, try to eat them on the same day, as the bread can become soggy if stored with egg salad for too long. If you must store them, wrap them in plastic wrap or foil and keep them in the fridge.
Tips to Make Japanese Egg Sandwich (Tamago Sando)
Use Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality eggs and Japanese mayonnaise can make a big difference in taste.
Don’t Overcook the Eggs: If you overcook the eggs, they can become rubbery. Ensure that you follow the boiling method carefully for the best results.
Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar, salt, and pepper according to your taste preference.
Try Different Breads: While Japanese milk bread is traditional, you can use other types of soft bread if needed.
Add Extras: You can incorporate additional ingredients such as avocado, cucumber, or small pieces of cooked chicken for added flavor.
Variation
For those who want to switch things up, consider adding ingredients like diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, or a dash of curry powder to the egg salad. You can also replace the Japanese mayonnaise with a flavored mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Japanese mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use regular mayonnaise, but the flavor will be different. Japanese mayonnaise is creamier and has a unique taste.
2. How long do boiled eggs last in the refrigerator?
Boiled eggs can last about one week in the refrigerator if stored properly.
3. Can I make the egg salad in advance?
Absolutely! The egg salad can be made in advance and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a great time-saver for quick lunches.
4. Can I freeze the egg salad?
It is not recommended to freeze egg salad as the texture may change when thawed.
5. How can I make a vegetarian version of the sandwich?
Consider using mashed avocado or hummus instead of egg salad for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Enjoy making your Japanese Egg Sandwich and savor each bite of this comforting and flavorful dish!
Japanese Egg Sandwich (Tamago Sando)
Ingredients
Method
- Boil the eggs in a pot covered with water. Bring to a boil, turn off the heat, cover, and let sit for about 12 minutes.
- Prepare an ice bath while the eggs are cooking.
- Transfer eggs to the ice bath and cool for about 5 minutes. Peel the eggs under running water.
- Mash the peeled eggs in a bowl until chunky.
- Mix in sugar, salt, pepper, milk (if using), and Japanese mayonnaise until well combined.
- Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Grill the bread butter-side down in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from skillet, add egg salad to unbuttered side of one slice, and top with another slice, butter-side up.
- Optional: Grill assembled sandwich in skillet again for another 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.
- Garnish with sliced chives if desired. Slice and serve.