Can the unusual strawberries and cream sandwich capture the hearts of British consumers?
Strawberry Sandwich Craze: A Taste of Japan Lands in the UK
Strawberry Sandwich Craze: A Taste of Japan Lands in the UK
M&S Brings a Viral Japanese Delight to Supermarket Shelves
In a culinary twist, the UK has welcomed a limited-edition strawberries and cream sandwich from Marks & Spencer (M&S), a creation reminiscent of the Japanese "furutsu sando." Made with strawberries, whipped cream cheese, and sweetened bread, this unique offering has captivated taste buds, becoming M&S's top-selling sandwich just two days post-launch. While fruit sandwiches have been a staple in Japan, becoming a recent sensation on social media, this is the first widespread instance of their availability in British supermarkets.
The concept of fruit sandwiches, particularly the popular strawberry variety, emerged in Japan when fruit shops combined sales with dessert offerings for customers. Recently, they have gained international appeal, particularly among Western travelers eager to indulge in the versions found in Japanese convenience stores like 7-Eleven. Shuko Oda, a chef at Koya restaurant in London, describes these sweet sandwiches as visually appealing and a delightful mix of textures, typically featuring soft, spongy white bread filled with fruit and cream.
While the idea may seem foreign to traditional British palates, the UK does have its own history of fruit in sandwiches, such as banana or jam sandwiches. The ongoing debate about what constitutes a sandwich extends beyond cultural borders, leading to questions about whether savory fillings are essential, and if unconventional bread alternatives count.
Throughout history, sandwiches have evolved, with their origins linked to the fourth Earl of Sandwich, who famously requested meat between slices of bread to balance dining with leisure. The culinary world is rich with diverse sandwich interpretations, from the Vietnamese bánh mì to the French croque monsieur, showcasing varieties that challenge conventional definitions.
As M&S invites consumers to embrace this Japanese-inspired treat, it offers a fresh perspective on how international culinary trends can thrive in the UK, providing a delightful fusion of flavors that exemplifies the evolving nature of food choices today.
The concept of fruit sandwiches, particularly the popular strawberry variety, emerged in Japan when fruit shops combined sales with dessert offerings for customers. Recently, they have gained international appeal, particularly among Western travelers eager to indulge in the versions found in Japanese convenience stores like 7-Eleven. Shuko Oda, a chef at Koya restaurant in London, describes these sweet sandwiches as visually appealing and a delightful mix of textures, typically featuring soft, spongy white bread filled with fruit and cream.
While the idea may seem foreign to traditional British palates, the UK does have its own history of fruit in sandwiches, such as banana or jam sandwiches. The ongoing debate about what constitutes a sandwich extends beyond cultural borders, leading to questions about whether savory fillings are essential, and if unconventional bread alternatives count.
Throughout history, sandwiches have evolved, with their origins linked to the fourth Earl of Sandwich, who famously requested meat between slices of bread to balance dining with leisure. The culinary world is rich with diverse sandwich interpretations, from the Vietnamese bánh mì to the French croque monsieur, showcasing varieties that challenge conventional definitions.
As M&S invites consumers to embrace this Japanese-inspired treat, it offers a fresh perspective on how international culinary trends can thrive in the UK, providing a delightful fusion of flavors that exemplifies the evolving nature of food choices today.
