Afternoon tea, that quintessentially British tradition, evokes images of dainty cakes, scones laden with clotted cream and jam, and, of course, a selection of delicate sandwiches. But what exactly are those sandwiches, and what makes them so special? It’s not just any old lunch meat slapped between two slices of bread. The sandwiches served at afternoon tea are carefully considered, perfectly proportioned, and crafted to complement the other sweet and savory treats on offer. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of afternoon tea sandwiches.
The Cornerstones of Afternoon Tea Sandwiches: Classic Fillings
The core of any good afternoon tea sandwich selection lies in the classics. These are the fillings that have stood the test of time, providing a familiar and comforting foundation upon which more adventurous flavors can be built. They are generally light, fresh, and designed not to overpower the palate.
Cucumber: The Undisputed Champion
The cucumber sandwich is perhaps the most iconic of all afternoon tea sandwiches. It’s simple, refreshing, and perfectly complements the rich flavors of the scones and cakes. The key to a great cucumber sandwich lies in the preparation. The cucumbers should be thinly sliced, often with the skin removed, and lightly salted to draw out excess moisture. They are then placed between two slices of thinly buttered, crustless white bread. Some variations incorporate a touch of cream cheese or mint, adding a subtle layer of flavor. Cucumber sandwiches are a must-have for any traditional afternoon tea.
Egg Mayonnaise: Creamy Comfort
Egg mayonnaise is another classic choice, providing a creamy and satisfying filling. The eggs should be hard-boiled, finely chopped, and mixed with a good quality mayonnaise. A touch of mustard or cress can be added for extra flavor. Like the cucumber sandwich, egg mayonnaise is best served on thinly buttered white bread with the crusts removed. The quality of the mayonnaise is paramount for a delicious egg mayonnaise sandwich.
Smoked Salmon: A Touch of Elegance
Smoked salmon adds a touch of luxury to the afternoon tea selection. It’s rich, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with cream cheese and dill. The salmon should be thinly sliced and placed on buttered brown bread, offering a slightly more robust flavor to complement the smokiness. A squeeze of lemon juice can also be added to enhance the flavor. Consider using wild-caught smoked salmon for a truly exceptional experience.
Chicken: A Heartier Option
While often overlooked, a well-made chicken sandwich can be a welcome addition to the afternoon tea spread. Poached chicken breast, finely shredded and mixed with mayonnaise, celery, and herbs, provides a more substantial filling. A touch of lemon juice or curry powder can add a unique twist. This sandwich is traditionally served on white or brown bread, depending on preference.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring More Adventurous Fillings
Once the classic fillings are in place, it’s time to explore some more adventurous options. These fillings can add a touch of sophistication and excitement to the afternoon tea experience, showcasing the chef’s creativity and offering guests a wider range of flavors.
Coronation Chicken: A Royal Affair
Coronation chicken, a blend of cooked chicken, mayonnaise, curry powder, and dried fruit, is a classic British dish that makes a fantastic sandwich filling. It’s sweet, savory, and slightly spicy, adding a vibrant flavor to the afternoon tea selection. Serve on white or brown bread.
Roast Beef and Horseradish: A Savory Delight
Thinly sliced roast beef with horseradish cream offers a bolder, more savory option. The horseradish adds a delightful kick that cuts through the richness of the beef. This sandwich is best served on brown bread.
Cream Cheese and Chive: A Simple Pleasure
Cream cheese and chive provides a fresh and herbaceous alternative. The creamy cheese is perfectly complemented by the subtle onion flavor of the chives. This sandwich works well on both white and brown bread.
Ham and Mustard: A Classic Combination
Ham and mustard is a timeless combination that never fails to please. Use a good quality ham and a flavorful mustard, such as Dijon or English mustard, for the best results. Serve on white or brown bread.
The Art of Presentation: Bread, Butter, and Crusts
The presentation of afternoon tea sandwiches is just as important as the filling. The bread should be fresh, thinly sliced, and evenly buttered. And, of course, the crusts must be removed.
Bread Selection: White vs. Brown
The choice of bread is a matter of personal preference, but a combination of white and brown bread is generally recommended. White bread provides a delicate and neutral base for the lighter fillings, while brown bread offers a more robust flavor and texture for the richer fillings. Use good quality bread from a local bakery for the best flavor and texture.
Butter: The Foundation of Flavor
Butter is essential for preventing the bread from becoming soggy and adding a layer of richness to the sandwich. Use unsalted butter that is softened to room temperature for easy spreading. The butter should be spread evenly and thinly across the bread.
Crusts: Off With Their Heads!
Removing the crusts is a traditional practice that adds to the delicate and refined nature of afternoon tea. The crusts can be removed before or after the sandwiches are assembled, but the end result should be neat and clean.
Cutting and Arranging: The Finishing Touch
After the crusts have been removed, the sandwiches are typically cut into small, delicate shapes, such as triangles, fingers, or squares. These shapes are easier to handle and eat, and they also add to the visual appeal of the afternoon tea spread. The sandwiches should be arranged attractively on a tiered stand or platter, alongside the scones, cakes, and other treats.
Accompaniments and Garnishes: Completing the Experience
While the sandwiches themselves are the star of the show, accompaniments and garnishes can enhance the overall experience.
Fresh Herbs: A Touch of Green
A sprig of fresh dill with the smoked salmon sandwich or a scattering of fresh cress with the egg mayonnaise sandwich can add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Lemon Wedges: A Zesty Addition
Lemon wedges are a classic accompaniment to smoked salmon sandwiches, adding a touch of acidity that cuts through the richness of the fish.
Watercress: A Peppery Bite
Watercress is a traditional garnish for afternoon tea sandwiches, adding a peppery bite and a touch of elegance.
Adapting to Dietary Needs: Vegetarian and Vegan Options
In today’s world, it’s important to cater to a variety of dietary needs. Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious vegetarian and vegan options for afternoon tea sandwiches.
Vegetarian Delights: Cheese and Veggie Combinations
Vegetarian sandwiches can include fillings such as cream cheese and cucumber, cheddar cheese and chutney, or roasted vegetables and hummus. These fillings provide a variety of flavors and textures, ensuring that vegetarian guests have plenty to enjoy.
Vegan Varieties: Plant-Based Perfection
Vegan sandwiches can be made with plant-based alternatives to cheese and mayonnaise, such as vegan cream cheese and vegan mayonnaise. Fillings such as avocado, hummus, roasted vegetables, and cucumber work well in vegan sandwiches. Ensure that the bread used is also vegan-friendly.
Beyond the Traditional: Regional Variations and Modern Twists
While the classic afternoon tea sandwiches remain popular, there’s also room for regional variations and modern twists.
Regional Inspirations: Local Flavors
Different regions may have their own unique takes on afternoon tea sandwiches. For example, in Scotland, you might find smoked salmon sandwiches with a touch of heather honey, while in Cornwall, you might find sandwiches filled with Cornish Yarg cheese and fig jam.
Modern Innovations: Creative Combinations
Chefs are constantly coming up with new and innovative sandwich fillings. Some modern twists include fillings such as goat cheese and fig, avocado and black bean, or chorizo and Manchego.
Storing and Preparing: Tips for Success
To ensure that your afternoon tea sandwiches are fresh and delicious, it’s important to store and prepare them properly.
Making Ahead: Time-Saving Tips
Sandwich fillings can often be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the sandwiches themselves should be assembled as close to serving time as possible to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
Keeping Fresh: Preventing Soggy Bread
To prevent the bread from becoming soggy, spread a thin layer of butter on both slices before adding the filling. You can also wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
Serving Suggestions: Maximizing Flavor and Presentation
Afternoon tea sandwiches should be served at room temperature. They can be arranged attractively on a tiered stand or platter, alongside the other treats.
The Importance of Quality Ingredients
Ultimately, the key to creating delicious afternoon tea sandwiches lies in using high-quality ingredients. Fresh bread, good quality butter, and flavorful fillings will make all the difference. Whether you’re sticking to the classics or experimenting with new flavors, using the best ingredients possible will ensure a truly memorable afternoon tea experience.
What are the most traditional sandwich fillings served at afternoon tea?
Traditional afternoon tea sandwiches are often dainty and elegant, featuring simple yet refined fillings. Cucumber sandwiches are almost always present, showcasing thinly sliced cucumber with cream cheese or butter on crustless white bread. Other common classics include egg salad, often prepared with mayonnaise, mustard, and sometimes cress, and smoked salmon, typically paired with cream cheese and dill.
Roast beef or ham with mustard or horseradish cream is also frequently found. The emphasis is on fresh, high-quality ingredients and delicate flavors that complement the teas being served. These traditional fillings aim to provide a light and refreshing balance to the richer scones and pastries that follow in the afternoon tea service.
Why are the crusts removed from afternoon tea sandwiches?
Removing the crusts from afternoon tea sandwiches is a matter of both aesthetics and etiquette. The crusts are believed to make the sandwiches easier to handle and more refined, creating a more delicate and pleasing presentation on the tiered stand. It contributes to the overall elegant and luxurious experience associated with afternoon tea.
Furthermore, the absence of crusts results in a softer texture, which is considered more palatable and easier to eat gracefully. The focus is on maximizing the enjoyment of the fillings and the tea itself, without the potential distraction or toughness of the crust. It’s a small detail that adds to the sophistication of the occasion.
What type of bread is typically used for afternoon tea sandwiches?
The bread used for afternoon tea sandwiches is almost invariably soft, white bread, thinly sliced and fresh. The emphasis is on providing a neutral base that allows the delicate flavors of the fillings to shine through without overpowering them. A fine-textured bread ensures a pleasant mouthfeel and contributes to the overall refined experience.
While brown or wholemeal bread may occasionally be used for specific dietary needs or modern interpretations, white bread remains the classic and most traditional choice. It’s important that the bread is fresh and of high quality, as it plays a significant role in the overall taste and texture of the sandwich. Some variations might include enriched breads like brioche, but this is less common.
Can I use fillings other than the traditional ones in my afternoon tea sandwiches?
Absolutely! While traditional fillings are a cornerstone of afternoon tea, modern variations and personal preferences are increasingly welcomed. You can certainly experiment with different flavor combinations and ingredients to create sandwiches that suit your own tastes and dietary requirements. Popular alternatives include chicken salad, hummus with roasted vegetables, or even more adventurous options like coronation chicken.
The key is to maintain the overall aesthetic of dainty and elegant sandwiches. Ensure that the fillings are not too overpowering or messy, and that the sandwiches are still easy to handle. Consider the flavors of the teas you are serving and choose fillings that will complement them. Remember, afternoon tea is about enjoyment and sharing, so embrace creativity while respecting the spirit of the occasion.
How should I cut and present afternoon tea sandwiches?
Afternoon tea sandwiches are typically cut into small, elegant shapes that are easy to handle and visually appealing. Common shapes include triangles, fingers (long, thin rectangles), or small squares. The choice of shape is largely a matter of personal preference, but triangles are perhaps the most classic and recognizable.
Presentation is key. Arrange the sandwiches neatly on a tiered stand, usually on the bottom tier. The arrangement should be visually appealing, with a variety of fillings and colors creating an inviting display. Garnishes, such as sprigs of dill or cucumber ribbons, can be added to enhance the presentation. The goal is to create a feast for the eyes as well as the palate, contributing to the overall sense of occasion.
How far in advance can I prepare afternoon tea sandwiches?
Ideally, afternoon tea sandwiches should be prepared as close to serving time as possible to ensure maximum freshness and prevent the bread from becoming soggy. However, if you need to prepare them in advance, you can assemble the fillings separately and then assemble the sandwiches a few hours before serving.
To prevent the bread from drying out, wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. You can also lightly dampen a clean kitchen towel and wrap it around the sandwiches to help retain moisture. Avoid refrigerating the sandwiches, as this can dry out the bread. It’s best to store them in a cool, dry place until serving. Some fillings, like cucumber, may release moisture, so consider assembling those sandwiches closest to the serving time.
What drinks pair best with afternoon tea sandwiches?
The classic accompaniment to afternoon tea sandwiches is, of course, tea! A variety of teas are typically offered, ranging from traditional black teas like Earl Grey and Darjeeling to lighter green teas and herbal infusions. The choice of tea will depend on personal preference and the flavors of the sandwiches and other treats being served.
Beyond tea, other beverages can also complement afternoon tea sandwiches. Sparkling wine or champagne can add a touch of elegance and celebration to the occasion. Iced tea or lemonade can be refreshing options, particularly during warmer months. The key is to choose beverages that are light, refreshing, and complement the delicate flavors of the food. Some people also enjoy a glass of sherry or port with their afternoon tea.