Famously available in Kolkata’s New Market area, the grilled egg-mayo sandwich is a light and easy snack. It has a creamy filling and crisp outer layer, due to the bread being cooked. Sandwiches were invented in 1762, a few years after the invention of mayonnaise in 1756. It is believed that the French chef of the Duke de Richelieu invented mayonnaise, which was re-conceived by Marie-Antoine Carême in the early 1800s. When the duke won against the British at Port Mahon, his chef created a celebratory feast, which included a sauce made with cream and eggs. The chef realised that there was no cream in the kitchen, and he added olive oil instead. Mayonnaise was born; the chef named it 'Mahonnaise' to represent the Duke's victory. Today, egg-mayo sandwiches are also served as a part of British afternoon tea.
