Tea sandwich

Tea sandwich is a small, delicate sandwich traditionally served at afternoon tea events. The sandwiches are typically made with thin slices of bread, and the crusts are often removed. Fillings can vary widely, but common choices include cucumber, smoked salmon, egg and cress, and chicken.

History

The tea sandwich originated in the United Kingdom during the Victorian era. The concept of afternoon tea was introduced by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, who would often feel hungry in the late afternoon. To stave off her hunger, she would have a tray of tea, bread and butter, and cake sent to her room. This eventually evolved into a social event, with the Duchess inviting friends to join her. The tea sandwich became a staple of these gatherings.

Preparation

The preparation of a tea sandwich involves several steps. First, the bread is thinly sliced. White bread is traditionally used, but other types of bread, such as whole wheat or rye bread, can also be used. The crusts are then removed to give the sandwiches a more delicate appearance.

Next, the filling is prepared. This can be as simple as butter and cucumber slices, or more complex, like smoked salmon with cream cheese and dill. The filling is spread onto one slice of bread, and then the second slice is placed on top.

Finally, the sandwich is cut into small, bite-sized pieces. These can be squares, rectangles, or triangles. The sandwiches are then arranged on a platter and served with tea.

Variations

There are many variations of the tea sandwich. In the United Kingdom, cucumber sandwiches are a popular choice. In Scotland, smoked salmon is often used. In the United States, variations include chicken salad, egg salad, and ham and cheese.

In addition to the traditional tea sandwich, there are also open-faced versions. These are made with a single slice of bread and the filling is spread on top.

See also

• Afternoon tea
• High tea
• List of sandwiches

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