20 hours ago, a novel culinary trend has arrived in the UK, blending the cherished British pairing of strawberries and cream into a surprising sandwich format. Marks & Spencer (M&S) has introduced a limited-edition strawberries and cream sandwich, featuring fresh strawberries, whipped cream cheese, and sweetened bread, designed in homage to the viral sensation known as "furutsu sando" from Japan. The product quickly gained popularity, ranking as M&S’s best-selling sandwich within two days of its debut.
While strawberry sandwiches are already enjoyed in some Japanese bakeries across the UK, this marks a pivotal moment as M&S offers the first widespread supermarket version. The concept of incorporating fruit into sandwiches, although seemingly unconventional to some, has roots in Japanese culinary tradition where "furutsu sando" gained traction in the 20th century. The unique fruit sandwiches have surged in global popularity thanks to social media, particularly among Western travelers showcasing their experiences with the versions sold at Japanese convenience stores like 7-Eleven.
Chef Shuko Oda from London's Koya restaurant describes these versatile sandwiches as a delightful fusion of aesthetics and texture, typically made with fluffy white bread and a vibrant fruit filling, such as strawberries or clementines. Cut into distinctive triangles, they appeal not only as snacks but also as beautiful accompaniments to beverages during tea or coffee breaks.
In the UK, fruit found in sandwiches is not entirely foreign, with banana sandwiches or even coronation chicken sandwiches with fruity additions invoking nostalgic flavors. However, the broader question remains: what qualifies as a sandwich? The definition traditionally comprises two slices of bread enclosing a filling, yet imaginative variations worldwide—such as Scandinavian open sandwiches or even French toast with fruit—challenge this notion.
Interestingly, the evolution of the sandwich is often attributed to John Montagu, the fourth Earl of Sandwich, who is said to have invented the idea to conveniently eat while continuing his card game. As culinary norms vary globally, the discussion around sandwiches continues to broaden, inviting a wave of creative innovations.
For those intrigued by the idea of fruit-based sandwiches, the article also highlights a selection of popular sandwiches from various cultures, ranging from Vietnam’s bánh mì to Portugal’s francesinha. Whether you’re in the mood for something indulgent or a unique twist on flavors, there’s a world of sandwiches to explore beyond the classic British fare.
While strawberry sandwiches are already enjoyed in some Japanese bakeries across the UK, this marks a pivotal moment as M&S offers the first widespread supermarket version. The concept of incorporating fruit into sandwiches, although seemingly unconventional to some, has roots in Japanese culinary tradition where "furutsu sando" gained traction in the 20th century. The unique fruit sandwiches have surged in global popularity thanks to social media, particularly among Western travelers showcasing their experiences with the versions sold at Japanese convenience stores like 7-Eleven.
Chef Shuko Oda from London's Koya restaurant describes these versatile sandwiches as a delightful fusion of aesthetics and texture, typically made with fluffy white bread and a vibrant fruit filling, such as strawberries or clementines. Cut into distinctive triangles, they appeal not only as snacks but also as beautiful accompaniments to beverages during tea or coffee breaks.
In the UK, fruit found in sandwiches is not entirely foreign, with banana sandwiches or even coronation chicken sandwiches with fruity additions invoking nostalgic flavors. However, the broader question remains: what qualifies as a sandwich? The definition traditionally comprises two slices of bread enclosing a filling, yet imaginative variations worldwide—such as Scandinavian open sandwiches or even French toast with fruit—challenge this notion.
Interestingly, the evolution of the sandwich is often attributed to John Montagu, the fourth Earl of Sandwich, who is said to have invented the idea to conveniently eat while continuing his card game. As culinary norms vary globally, the discussion around sandwiches continues to broaden, inviting a wave of creative innovations.
For those intrigued by the idea of fruit-based sandwiches, the article also highlights a selection of popular sandwiches from various cultures, ranging from Vietnam’s bánh mì to Portugal’s francesinha. Whether you’re in the mood for something indulgent or a unique twist on flavors, there’s a world of sandwiches to explore beyond the classic British fare.
