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Strawberries and cream have been a beloved British delicacy since the 1800s, but the idea of incorporating them into a sandwich may raise some eyebrows. Nonetheless, M&S (Marks & Spencer) has launched a limited-edition strawberries and cream sandwich that combines fresh strawberries, whipped cream cheese, and sweetened bread. This innovative creation has quickly become a hit, reportedly topping sales charts within just two days post-launch.
While fruit in sandwiches might sound foreign to many in the UK, it's a staple in Japan where "furutsu sando" (fruit sandwiches) are common. The trend started when Japanese fruit parlors began offering desserts that showcased their fresh produce, and recently, these unique treats gained international popularity through social media. Tourists, especially on platforms like TikTok, have been flocking to iconic chains like 7-Eleven in Japan to try their fruit sandwiches.
Chef Shuko Oda, based in London at the Koya restaurant, explains that these sandwiches typically boast a soft, spongy white bread filled with creamy elements and a variety of fruits, including strawberries, clementines, and kiwis. They are presented in triangular slices to showcase the vibrant fruits inside, adding an appealing visual component to the experience.
In the UK, the combination of bread and fruit is not unprecedented—banana sandwiches, jam sandwiches, and even Coronation chicken, which may integrate dried fruits, have their place in British snack culture. This leads to broader questions about the definition of a "sandwich."
What truly constitutes a sandwich? The Oxford English Dictionary refers to two slices of bread containing a filling, but interpretations differ globally. For example, jibaritos use fried plantains instead of bread, while Scandinavian open-faced sandwiches have their own distinct presentation.
UK food traditions often include unexpected sandwich fillings that can bemuse international palates. From crisp sarnies to chip butties, Britain has its share of unconventional offerings. Inspired by Japan’s fruit sando phenomenon, here's a glance at more international sandwiches that could inspire adventurous eaters:
- **Bánh mì:** A Vietnamese sensation, this baguette is filled with meats, pâté, pickles, and spicy sauces.
- **Croque monsieur:** A decadent French classic, this hot sandwich is layered with cheese and ham, often topped with an egg to create a croque madame.
- **Po' boy:** Originating from New Orleans, this sandwich features various seafood fillings with fresh accompaniments, perfect for street food lovers.
- **Arepa:** A Venezuelan delight made from corn flour, filled with savory items like chicken and avocado.
- **Francesinha:** A Portuguese indulgence filled with meats and cheese, drowning in rich sauce and served with fries.
Food enthusiasts looking to elevate their sandwiches might find inspiration not just in the traditional recipes but from new global offerings—like Japan's strawberries and cream sandwiches now making waves in the UK culinary scene.
Strawberries and cream have been a beloved British delicacy since the 1800s, but the idea of incorporating them into a sandwich may raise some eyebrows. Nonetheless, M&S (Marks & Spencer) has launched a limited-edition strawberries and cream sandwich that combines fresh strawberries, whipped cream cheese, and sweetened bread. This innovative creation has quickly become a hit, reportedly topping sales charts within just two days post-launch.
While fruit in sandwiches might sound foreign to many in the UK, it's a staple in Japan where "furutsu sando" (fruit sandwiches) are common. The trend started when Japanese fruit parlors began offering desserts that showcased their fresh produce, and recently, these unique treats gained international popularity through social media. Tourists, especially on platforms like TikTok, have been flocking to iconic chains like 7-Eleven in Japan to try their fruit sandwiches.
Chef Shuko Oda, based in London at the Koya restaurant, explains that these sandwiches typically boast a soft, spongy white bread filled with creamy elements and a variety of fruits, including strawberries, clementines, and kiwis. They are presented in triangular slices to showcase the vibrant fruits inside, adding an appealing visual component to the experience.
In the UK, the combination of bread and fruit is not unprecedented—banana sandwiches, jam sandwiches, and even Coronation chicken, which may integrate dried fruits, have their place in British snack culture. This leads to broader questions about the definition of a "sandwich."
What truly constitutes a sandwich? The Oxford English Dictionary refers to two slices of bread containing a filling, but interpretations differ globally. For example, jibaritos use fried plantains instead of bread, while Scandinavian open-faced sandwiches have their own distinct presentation.
UK food traditions often include unexpected sandwich fillings that can bemuse international palates. From crisp sarnies to chip butties, Britain has its share of unconventional offerings. Inspired by Japan’s fruit sando phenomenon, here's a glance at more international sandwiches that could inspire adventurous eaters:
- **Bánh mì:** A Vietnamese sensation, this baguette is filled with meats, pâté, pickles, and spicy sauces.
- **Croque monsieur:** A decadent French classic, this hot sandwich is layered with cheese and ham, often topped with an egg to create a croque madame.
- **Po' boy:** Originating from New Orleans, this sandwich features various seafood fillings with fresh accompaniments, perfect for street food lovers.
- **Arepa:** A Venezuelan delight made from corn flour, filled with savory items like chicken and avocado.
- **Francesinha:** A Portuguese indulgence filled with meats and cheese, drowning in rich sauce and served with fries.
Food enthusiasts looking to elevate their sandwiches might find inspiration not just in the traditional recipes but from new global offerings—like Japan's strawberries and cream sandwiches now making waves in the UK culinary scene.
