Sando, also known as Japanese sandwiches, have become increasingly popular around the world. These delicious and varied creations are not only a staple in Japanese cuisine but also perfect for snacking or as a quick meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting treat after a long day or an exciting twist on traditional sandwich-making, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering Japanese sando recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic combinations like egg salad and katsu (breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet) to innovative matches like matcha cream and red bean paste, there’s something for every palate and occasion.
So, let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of Japanese sandos! In this first installment, we’ll be highlighting some of our favorite recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds. Stay tuned for more deliciousness!
Egg Salad Japanese Sando
A classic combination of soft-boiled eggs, creamy mayonnaise, and crunchy vegetables wrapped in a crispy Japanese sando (sandwich) – perfect for a quick snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup Japanese mayonnaise (or regular mayonnaise)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced carrot
– 1/4 cup chopped green onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 Japanese sando bread (or crusty baguette)
Instructions:
1. Soft-boil the eggs, then chill in an ice bath. Peel and slice into quarters.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sliced eggs to the bowl and gently fold until well coated with the mayonnaise mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the diced cucumber, carrot, and green onion.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a layer of egg salad on each sando bread, followed by a spoonful of the vegetable mixture.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Katsu Sando with Tonkatsu and Shredded Cabbage
A classic Japanese sandwich filled with crispy tonkatsu, crunchy shredded cabbage, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pork cutlet (tonkatsu)
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup Tonkatsu Sauce (or store-bought equivalent)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the tonkatsu by coating it with panko breadcrumbs and frying until crispy.
2. Toast the bread slices until lightly browned.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a slice of tonkatsu on each bread slice, followed by a spoonful of shredded cabbage.
4. Drizzle Tonkatsu Sauce over the top.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes frying time)
Fruit Sando with Fresh Strawberries and Whipped Cream
This classic sandwich cake gets a refreshing twist with the sweetness of fresh strawberries and the creaminess of whipped cream. It’s an easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of soft, white bread (about 12 slices)
– 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup of heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the bread into 3-inch squares to create the sandwich “buns”.
2. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Add granulated sugar and mix well.
3. Arrange a few slices of strawberries on each bread square.
4. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and repeat the layering process one more time.
5. Finish with a final dollop of whipped cream on top.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep) + serving
Tamagoyaki Sando with Sweet Rolled Omelette
A Japanese-inspired sandwich filled with a sweet and savory tamagoyaki omelette, crispy bacon, and fresh lettuce. A perfect blend of flavors and textures!
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 4 slices of bacon
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, etc.)
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, soy sauce, sake, and sugar.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until the edges start to set (about 30 seconds).
3. Roll the omelette into a neat cylinder using a spatula. Slice into 1-inch thick rounds.
4. Cook the bacon slices in a pan until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading butter on each slice of bread, then placing a tamagoyaki round, a few pieces of bacon, and some mixed greens.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Sando with Pickled Vegetables
Experience the perfect fusion of Japanese flavors and American comfort with this mouthwatering Teriyaki Chicken Sando topped with tangy pickled vegetables. This recipe is a twist on the classic chicken sandwich, elevating it to new heights with sweet and savory teriyaki sauce and crunchy pickles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce
– Tomato
– Mayonnaise (optional)
– Pickled vegetables (see below for recipe)
Pickled Vegetables Recipe:
– 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
– 1 cup thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush chicken breasts with teriyaki sauce and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing cooked chicken, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise (if using), and pickled vegetables between toasted buns.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ebi Fry Sando with Crispy Fried Shrimp
Discover the delightful fusion of Japanese-inspired flavors and American-style fried goodness in this Ebi Fry Sando recipe. Crunchy shrimp, soft bread, and creamy sauce come together to create a mouthwatering sandwich that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Soft white bread, sliced
– Melted butter or mayonnaise (optional)
– Tonkatsu sauce (or similar Japanese-style dipping sauce)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each shrimp into the buttermilk, then coat with the flour mixture.
3. Fry the shrimp in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Assemble the sando by placing fried shrimp on soft white bread.
5. Add melted butter or mayonnaise if desired, followed by a dollop of Tonkatsu sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Karaage Sando with Juicy Fried Chicken
Karaage Sando with Juicy Fried Chicken Recipe
Summary: Experience the perfect harmony of Japanese-inspired fried chicken and fluffy sandwich bread, all wrapped up in a mouthwatering Karaage Sando. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, this sandwich is a game-changer.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 4 slices white bread
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip chicken thighs in the beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Assemble the sandwich by placing a fried chicken thigh between two slices of white bread.
6. Spread butter on top of the chicken, then sprinkle with soy sauce and sake (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado and Cucumber Japanese Sando
Enjoy a light and satisfying snack with this easy-to-make sando, perfect for hot summer days. Crunchy cucumber and creamy avocado come together in harmony to create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread (preferably Japanese milk bread or baguette)
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: pickled ginger, wasabi mayo, or chopped scallions for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread a thin layer of soy sauce on one slice and sesame oil on the other.
3. Top with sliced avocado, cucumber, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the sando by placing the two slices together.
5. Add optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pork Cutlet Sando with Tonkatsu Sauce
A classic Japanese-inspired sandwich that combines crispy pork cutlets with creamy tonkatsu sauce, all wrapped up in a soft bun. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 cup tonkatsu sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 soft buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt.
2. Dip each pork cutlet into the egg mixture (beaten egg with 1 tablespoon milk) and then coat in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the breaded pork cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Assemble sandwiches by spreading tonkatsu sauce on the bottom bun, followed by a cooked pork cutlet, lettuce, tomato, pickles (if using), and top bun.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Matcha Cream Sando with Red Bean Paste
Elevate your snack game with this unique and delicious matcha cream sandwich, featuring a sweet and nutty red bean paste filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup matcha powder
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8-10 soft bread slices (e.g., milk bread or brioche)
– Red bean paste (homemade or store-bought), about 1/2 cup
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together matcha powder and sugar until well combined.
2. Add heavy cream and salt; whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Lay out bread slices on a flat surface.
4. Spread a thin layer of red bean paste onto each slice.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of matcha cream on top of the red bean paste.
6. Top with another bread slice to form a sandwich.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an assembly-only recipe.
Grilled Cheese Sando with Miso Butter
Transform a classic comfort food into a sophisticated snack by adding the savory richness of miso butter. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon white miso paste
– 2 slices of cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your favorite)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and miso paste until well combined.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice with the miso butter mixture.
4. Place one slice of bread, miso butter-side down, in the skillet.
5. Top with cheese and finish with the second bread slice, miso butter-side up.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Spicy Tuna Mayo Sando with Sriracha
Elevate your sandwich game with this bold and flavorful combination of spicy tuna, creamy mayo, and tangy Sriracha.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Sriracha sauce
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– Lettuce leaves
– Tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the flaked tuna, mayonnaise, and Sriracha sauce until well combined.
2. Lay out the bread slices and spread a quarter of the tuna mixture onto each slice.
3. Top with lettuce leaves and tomato slices (if using).
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing two slices on top of each other.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Yakisoba Sando with Stir-Fried Noodles
Get ready to experience the Japanese street food favorite, Yakisoba Sando, with a twist of stir-fried noodles. This recipe combines savory yakitori chicken, crispy bacon, and a medley of vegetables in a flavorful noodle dish wrapped in a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup yakitori-style chicken breast, sliced
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green onions)
– 2 cups stir-fried noodles (using Yakisoba sauce)
– 4 soft buns
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Stir-fry with Yakisoba sauce and set aside.
2. Grill or pan-fry the chicken until cooked through. Slice into thin strips.
3. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a portion of noodles, chicken, bacon, and vegetables onto each bun.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Cheese Japanese Sando
Experience the perfect fusion of East meets West with this simple yet satisfying Ham and Cheese Japanese Sando recipe. Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread (Japanese milk bread or brioche work well)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 4 slices of cooked ham (such as prosciutto or serrano ham)
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup of shredded daikon radish (optional, but recommended for added crunch and flavor)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place two bread slices, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with a slice of ham, a slice of cheese, and some shredded daikon (if using).
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook the other side for an additional minute.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per sando
Unagi Sando with Grilled Eel and Sansho Pepper
A classic Japanese sandwich that combines the rich flavor of grilled eel with the spicy kick of sansho pepper, all wrapped up in a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of unagi (grilled eel), sliced into thin strips
– 4 soft buns (shokupan or milk bread)
– Sansho peppers, thinly sliced
– Mayonnaise or Japanese-style mayo (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the unagi slices with a little water and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the eel for about 2-3 minutes per side, until it’s cooked through and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, toast the buns by grilling them lightly or baking them in the oven for a few minutes.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a slice of grilled eel on each bun, followed by a sprinkle of sansho peppers.
6. Add a dollop of mayonnaise if desired, and finish with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Okonomiyaki Sando with Savory Pancake
Experience the fusion of Japanese and Western flavors with this savory pancake sandwich, inspired by the popular Okonomiyaki dish. This crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside pancake is filled with sweet and spicy okonomiyaki sauce, juicy pork belly, and crunchy green onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup okonomiyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 slices of pork belly, cooked and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and water.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in the batter and cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface.
3. Flip the pancake and cook for another minute.
4. Spread okonomiyaki sauce on one half of the pancake, followed by diced pork belly and chopped green onions.
5. Fold the other half of the pancake to form a sandwich. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to melt the cheese (optional).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Corn Mayo Sando with Sweet Corn Kernels
Experience the perfect blend of creamy and crunchy with this simple recipe that combines sweet corn kernels with a rich mayo spread, all nestled between soft bread slices.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 sandwich bread slices
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sweet corn kernels
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread slices until lightly browned.
2. In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and sweet corn kernels.
3. Spread a layer of the mayo-corn mixture on each toasted bread slice.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing two slices on top of each other.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Salmon Sando with Lemon and Dill
Brighten up your sandwich game with this refreshing take on the classic salmon sando. Pan-seared salmon, tangy lemon, and fragrant dill come together in a harmonious union that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 soft buns
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped dill.
3. Pan-sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast the buns and spread with your favorite condiment (we recommend a dollop of crème fraîche).
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the cooked salmon on the toasted buns.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Wagyu Beef Sando with Truffle Mayo
Elevate your sandwich game with this indulgent combination of rich Wagyu beef, creamy truffle mayo, and crunchy lettuce on a soft baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 pound Wagyu beef striploin
– 2 tablespoons truffle mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 large baguette, sliced
– Lettuce leaves, for serving
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the Wagyu beef with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
3. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices.
4. Spread truffle mayonnaise on each toasted baguette slice.
5. Slice the cooked Wagyu beef into thin strips.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few strips of beef onto the baguette, followed by a lettuce leaf.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Potato Sando with Cinnamon Sugar
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warmth of cinnamon sugar, creating a unique and tasty twist on the classic sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 4 slices of white bread
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let the sweet potatoes cool, then slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and granulated sugar.
5. Spread the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly onto each bread slice.
6. Top each bread slice with a sweet potato round and serve.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of Japanese sandwiches, or “sando”! This article features 20 mouth-watering recipes to satisfy every craving. From classic combinations like egg salad and katsu with tonkatsu sauce, to sweet treats like matcha cream and fresh strawberries, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at savory options like grilled cheese with miso butter or spicy tuna mayo, or indulge in international twists like ham and cheese or wagyu beef with truffle mayo. With these recipes, you’ll be making sando masterpieces in no time!
Leave a Reply