Why You’ll Love Japanese Egg Sandwich Recipe
If you love egg sandwiches, this Japanese version takes comfort food to the next level. The egg filling is rich, creamy, and delicately seasoned, and the ultra‑soft milk bread keeps every bite light and tender. Unlike heavier Western egg sandwiches, Tamago Sando focuses on refined textures and subtle flavor that’s both nostalgic and pleasing.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Egg salad filling
6 large eggs
1/4 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 to 2 teaspoons milk or plant milk (optional)
4 tablespoons Japanese mayonnaise
Sandwich
4 slices Japanese milk bread
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Chives, sliced (optional for garnish)
Directions
Prepare the eggs: Bring a pot of water to a boil and gently lower in the eggs. Boil about 7 minutes for medium soft‑boiled eggs or about 10 minutes for hard‑boiled, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop cooking. Peel when cool enough to handle.
Make the egg salad: Place peeled eggs in a bowl and mash into small pieces. Season with sugar, salt, and pepper, then add the Japanese mayonnaise and milk (if using). Stir until well combined and creamy.
Butter the bread: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on each slice of bread.
Assemble: Spread half of the egg salad evenly onto two slices of bread. Top with the remaining slices, buttered side down. Gently press to compress.
Finish: Trim off the crusts for a classic look, then cut each sandwich in half. Garnish with sliced chives if desired, and serve.
Servings and timing
Serves: 4 sandwiches
Prep time: about 10 minutes
Cook time: about 15 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes
Variations
Soft‑boiled center: Add a soft‑boiled egg slice inside for extra creaminess.
Bread alternative: If Japanese milk bread isn’t available, use very soft white bread or brioche.
Herbs & spice: Sprinkle a pinch of paprika, chives, or scallions into the egg salad for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover sandwiches wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 2 days. If the bread becomes firm, you can lightly toast it before eating to refresh the texture. For best flavor, assemble right before eating when possible.
FAQs
What is a Tamago Sando?
“Tamago Sando” means egg sandwich in Japanese. It’s a soft, creamy egg salad between slices of Japanese milk bread.
What kind of bread should I use?
Authentically, Japanese milk bread (shokupan) is used for its soft, airy texture, but soft white bread can work too.
Can I make this without Japanese mayonnaise?
Yes. Regular mayonnaise will work, though Japanese mayo has a slightly sweeter, richer flavor.
How long will the egg salad last?
Egg salad can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Assemble sandwiches just before serving for best texture.
Can I make this gluten‑free?
Yes. Just use gluten‑free soft bread slices in place of milk bread.
Should I use hard‑boiled or soft‑boiled eggs?
Both work. Soft‑boiled eggs give a creamier filling, while hard‑boiled eggs hold a firmer texture.
Why cut off the crusts?
Removing the crusts creates the classic smooth, neat appearance typical of Japanese convenience store sandwiches.
Can I add extra ingredients to the filling?
Yes, though traditional tamago sando keeps it simple. Some people add herbs or a bit of seasoning for extra flavor.
Is this good for kids’ lunches?
Absolutely — its mild flavor and soft texture make it kid‑friendly.
What’s the approximate calorie count?
A typical serving ranges around 300–450 calories depending on bread and mayo amounts.
Conclusion
This Japanese Egg Sandwich (Tamago Sando) is a delightful twist on the classic egg salad sandwich. With its creamy filling and fluffy bread, it’s simple to prepare yet full of comforting flavor. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Japanese Egg Sandwich (Tamago Sando)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and fluffy Japanese egg sandwich, also known as Tamago Sando, made with soft white bread and a rich egg salad filling. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Japanese mayonnaise (such as Kewpie)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- White pepper to taste
- 4 slices of soft white bread (preferably milk bread or shokupan)
- Optional: softened butter for bread
Instructions
- Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, cover the pot, remove from heat, and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool, then peel them.
- Set one egg aside. Mash the remaining 5 eggs in a bowl with a fork.
- Add Japanese mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and white pepper to the mashed eggs. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Slice the reserved egg in half or into slices for sandwich decoration, if desired.
- (Optional) Spread a thin layer of softened butter on the bread slices.
- Divide the egg salad mixture onto two slices of bread, then top with the remaining slices.
- Trim off the crusts for a traditional look, then cut sandwiches in half or thirds to serve.
Notes
- Use Japanese mayonnaise for authentic flavor and creamy texture.
- Milk bread or shokupan is preferred for the softest texture, but any soft white bread works.
- Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Boiled
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 375mg
