**Strawberries and Cream Sandwiches: A Japanese Delight Arrives in the UK**
Strawberries and cream—a delightful combination that has long been cherished in British culture since the 1800s—are experiencing a reimagining with a new twist: the strawberries and cream sandwich. This unique culinary creation has been introduced by Marks & Spencer (M&S), and it reflects a growing trend that merges traditional flavors with modern interpretations. Inspired by Japanese “furutsu sando” or fruit sandwiches, M&S’s limited-edition offering showcases a delightful medley of strawberries paired with whipped cream cheese on sweetened bread.
Since its launch, M&S’s strawberries and cream sandwich has garnered significant attention, quickly becoming the top-selling sandwich within the first two days on supermarket shelves. While some Japanese bakeries in the UK have previously offered fruit sandwiches, M&S’s innovative approach marks a notable milestone in making this concept widely accessible to the British public.
In Japan, the fruit sandwich has a rich history, evolving from small parlors where sweet fruit was served as a dessert. These delicious treats gained substantial popularity on social media in recent years, particularly after being featured by Western travelers on platforms like TikTok. One notable favorite among visitors is the version sold in the renowned Japanese convenience store chain, 7-Eleven.
The idea of incorporating fruit into a sandwich may raise eyebrows among traditionalists, but it is anything but foreign to Japanese cuisine. Typically characterized by sweet, fluffy white bread filled with a variety of fruits accompanied by whipped cream, these sandwiches are both visually appealing and texturally delightful. Shuko Oda, a chef at Koya restaurant in London, describes the aesthetic qualities of these creations, emphasizing that they have become snacks enjoyed alongside tea or coffee.
Although the concept of a fruit sandwich might seem unconventional to some, the UK has its share of fruit-based sandwich options. Banana sandwiches, for example, have delighted generations, as have jam sandwiches—evident markers of nostalgic childhood snacks. Even savory dishes like coronation chicken sandwiches incorporate dried fruits, demonstrating the versatility of sandwiches across cultures.
The definition of a sandwich has long been debated. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a traditional sandwich consists of two slices of bread with a savory or sweet filling. However, as culinary boundaries expand, we now see unique interpretations worldwide. The jibarito, for example, replaces wheat bread with fried plantain, while Scandinavian open sandwiches leverage a different concept altogether.
Sandwiches vary drastically from one country to another. The bánh mì from Vietnam, filled with a combination of meats, pickles, and spicy sauces, exemplifies the diverse possibilities within this beloved food category. Meanwhile, the French croque monsieur presents an indulgent option filled with ham and melted cheese, complete with a twist—topped with an egg, it transforms into a croque madame.
In New Orleans, the po’ boy sandwich shines with its delightful seafood fillings, showcasing the culinary brilliance of Louisiana. From the corn flour-based arepas popular in Venezuela, filled with chicken, avocado, and spices, to the comforting spaghetti sandwiches found in UK schools and Australian jaffles, the international sandwich scene is rich with flavor and creativity.
As we explore these culinary landscapes, we cannot overlook the Francesinha, a Portuguese marvel hailing from Porto, which is a hearty construction of bread stuffed with an assortment of meats and cheese, lavishly smothered with a flavorful sauce.
In conclusion, the emergence of strawberries and cream sandwiches in the UK represents not just a delightful addition to traditional British fare but also a reflection of global culinary influence. These sandwiches offer a fresh, playful approach to enjoying fruit, echoing the principles of fusion cuisine where different culinary traditions intertwine. With Japan’s furutsu sando leading the charge, it seems we will witness even more creative sandwich innovations in the future.
