Japanese Sausages: Our Selection

Craving the unique taste of sausages you enjoyed in Japan?? Whether for a colourful bento box, an extraordinary appetiser, or just a quick meal on the go, the Japanese sausage is an everyday staple of Asian cuisine. Often thinner with a delicate texture, they stand out for their smoky flavour and quick preparation.

With an ever-expanding range of options, it can be hard to know where to start. As the Head of Product Recommendations at Joybuy, my mission is to find the very best gems for you, available for direct delivery in France. This guide is designed to help you make an informed decision and choose the perfect sausages for your kitchen.

How to Choose Your Asian Sausage??

A few simple criteria are all you need to make the right choice. The goal isn't to find the one "perfect" sausage, but rather the one that suits your current cravings.

1. Style: Classic, Cheese-Filled, or Truly Original??

The classic Japanese pork sausage, often called "Wiener" (ウインナー) in Japan, is typically smoked, pre-cooked, and very juicy. It's a reliable choice for bento boxes and breakfasts.

But the current star of the show is undoubtedly the cheese-filled sausage. It contains pieces of cheese that melt when cooked, adding an indulgent touch that's a hit with both kids and adults. Other varieties exist, such as the Taiwanese sausage, which is known for its slightly sweeter taste.

2. Preparation: Simplicity is Key

The real advantage of Asian sausage?? It's incredibly simple to prepare. Most are sold frozen, which ensures a long shelf life and means you can always have them on hand.

Cooking is a breeze: just a few minutes in simmering water or a frying pan, and they're ready. This ease of use makes them a lifesaver for impromptu meals or last-minute bento preparations.

3. Use: Appetiser, Bento, or Main Dish??

Before you buy, consider how you plan to use them.

• Sausage for bento?: Choose smaller sizes that are easy to cut into fun shapes (like the famous "tako winner" octopus).
• Sausage for appetisers?: Cheese-filled or cocktail-sized versions are perfect. Sliced and served on toothpicks, they always make an impression.
• As a main dish?: Add them to stir-fried noodles, fried rice (chahan), or simply serve with vegetables for a quick and tasty protein boost.

Our Selection of Japanese and Asian Sausages

Here is a selection of our top picks, showcasing the diversity of the Asian sausage world.

Nipponham Japanese-Style Pork Sausages - Cooked, Smoked 200g

Why it stands out?: This product from Nipponham (NH Foods) is the gold standard for experiencing the authentic taste of Japanese sausage. Pre-cooked and smoked, they have the characteristic flavour and juicy texture loved in Japanese izakayas and family bento boxes.

Pros?:

• Authentic taste?: A balanced, smoky flavour true to the Japanese recipe.
• Quality texture?: The natural sheep casing provides the perfect snap.
• Express preparation?: Ready in 5 minutes in hot water or a pan.
• Versatility?: Perfect for breakfast, bento boxes, or as a snack.

Who is it for?? For purists of Japanese flavours and anyone looking for a high-quality bento sausage that is as simple as it is quick to prepare.

Nipponham Japanese-Style Pork Sausage with Cheese 185g

Why it stands out?: This version takes the quality base of the classic Nipponham sausage and adds a touch of indulgence! It is filled with cheese (15%). The cheese melts beautifully when cooked, adding an irresistible creaminess and richness.

Pros?:

• Indulgent combination?: The perfect marriage of smoked pork and melted cheese.
• A crowd-pleaser?: A mild and comforting flavour that is especially popular with children.
• Pleasant texture?: The melted cheese contrasts with the snap of the sausage.
• Convenient storage?: A frozen product, always ready when you need it.

Who is it for?? Ideal for families, fans of cheese-filled sausage, and anyone looking to jazz up their appetisers or meals.

FRESHASIA Taiwanese-Style Sausage with Melted Cheese 300g

Why it stands out?: This Taiwanese sausage from FRESHASIA offers a completely different experience. Its flavour, typical of the local cured meats, is sweeter. Its centre is generously filled with melting mozzarella cheese. It more than delivers on the promise of a molten core in every bite.

Pros?:

• Molten centre?: The mozzarella (15%) creates an ultra-indulgent 'oozing' effect.
• Sweet and savoury profile?: A flavour typical of Taiwanese sausage that pairs wonderfully with pork and cheese.
• Versatile cooking?: Lends itself well to pan-frying or cooking in an Air Fryer for a crispy exterior.
• Generous size?: Perfect for a shareable appetiser.

Who is it for?? For the curious and food lovers who enjoy sweet and savoury flavours and are looking for a sausage with a "surprise element" thanks to its molten centre.

Discover More Options

Our selection is just a taste of the world of Asian sausage. Curious to explore a wider range of cured meats?? Many other options await you.

? Discover our full range of sausages and hams

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do you cook frozen Japanese sausage??

Most Japanese sausages are already pre-cooked. To reheat them, there are two very simple options:

1. Poaching?: Place the sausages (frozen or thawed) in a pot of simmering water (not boiling) for 3 to 5 minutes.
2. Pan-frying?: Heat a drizzle of oil in a pan and brown the sausages over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, turning them regularly.

What is special about Japanese pork sausage??

Compared to its European counterparts, Japanese pork sausage typically has a finer, less fatty texture, a delicately smoky taste, and sometimes a very slight sweet note. It is designed to be versatile and complement a multitude of dishes without ever overpowering the other flavours.

Can you use these sausages for a bento box??

Absolutely! In fact, it's one of their most popular uses. Their small size and the fact that they are pre-cooked make them ideal for filling a bento box. They are delicious even when cold and can be cut into fun shapes (octopus, flower, etc.) to make the lunchbox even more appealing.