The first time I saw pictures of Smørrebrød in a foreign food magazine I was smitten. What gorgeous simplicity was this? Smørrebrød is the name for the Danish Open-Faced Sandwich.

Traditionally, the main ingredient of Smørrebrød (pronounced “smuhr-broht”) is crisp buttered rugbrød (Danish rye bread), topped with a fatty spread like salted butter, then layered with rich toppings like cured meats, pickled herring and cheeses – anything really. It originated in the 19th century as a practical lunch for Danish workers, but over the years this dish has evolved into a culinary art form, celebrated in homes & high-end restaurants.

The most important things to remember are the garnishes & artful presentation. While the toppings vary, the secret to an authentic Smørrebrød lies in balance—contrasting textures & bold flavours that come together in a perfect bite.

“Leave it to the Danes, those past masters of form and colour, to turn sandwiches into still lifes.” – R. W. Apple, Jr (renowned New York Times food and travel writer).

The next two recipes can probably not be classified as Smørrebød, but they are certainly inspired by them! So, I hope the Danes reading this will fogive me.

I’ve decided to call these “Fancy Open Sandwiches”. Making these gorgeous sandwiches are so easy & they are so P.R.E.T.T.Y too! I love me some diary butter, but feel free to use a plant-based spread to create a vegan sandwich. Save this little recipe for when you next have to serve fun eats to little people or want to elevate your bagel game.

Cucumber Smørrebrød Style Open Sandwich

This cucumber sandwich can't be simpler or prettier!

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Servings: 1 person

Course: Lunch, Snack

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

1 Slice of Wholewheat Brown Bread
Regular Salted Butter or Flora Plant Spread
Very thinly sliced cucumber
A few slices of very thinly sliced radish
Salt & pepper for seasoning
Optional: top your cucumber sandwich with some smoked salmon & a squeeze of lemon.

Method

Do this: Smear the bread with your butter or plant butter, top with slices of cucumber & add radish in between.
If using, top with smoked salmon & a squeeze of lemon.
Season & enjoy!

Strawberry Butter Bagel

Mixing strawberries with butter creates a beautiful spread.

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Servings: 2 person

Course: Snack

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

2 Fresh bagels, cut in half & toasted if preferred
5 Fresh strawberries, finely chopped
5 Tbsp Butter or plant spread
1 Tsp Caster sugar or powdered sugar
Edible flowers to serve

Method

Mix & smash your dairy or plant butter, caster or powdered sugar and the diced strawberries together.
Smear on your bagel, add an edible flower or two. Enjoy your gorgeous bagel!