Danish Smørrebrød

[otterlyslick]

Smørrebrød, the Danish open-faced sandwich, is such a beautiful mix of simplicity and elegance. I gave it a go, and the flavors are both familiar and fresh, with each topping carefully paired to bring out the best in every bite. Traditionally served on dark rye bread, it’s hearty, colorful, and perfect for layering all sorts of delicious toppings.

Ingredients​

Base​

• Dark rye bread, thinly sliced (about 1–2 slices per serving)
• Butter, softened, for spreading

Topping Ideas​

These are a few classic combinations, but you can mix and match however you like!

1. Egg & Shrimp
   • Hard-boiled eggs, sliced
   • Cooked shrimp
   • Fresh dill
   • Lemon slices
   • Mayonnaise, optional
2. Roast Beef & Remoulade
   • Thinly sliced roast beef
   • Danish remoulade or horseradish sauce
   • Crispy fried onions
   • Pickled cucumber slices
   • Fresh chives
3. Smoked Salmon & Radish
   • Smoked salmon
   • Thinly sliced radish
   • Fresh dill or chives
   • Capers
   • Cream cheese or butter, spread on bread first
4. Herring & Onion
   • Pickled herring, drained
   • Thinly sliced red onion
   • Fresh dill
   • Capers
   • Freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions​

1. Prepare the Bread
   Start with a thin slice of rye bread and spread a light layer of softened butter. The butter adds richness and keeps the bread from getting soggy, especially with moist toppings.
2. Layer the Toppings
   Choose your toppings and layer thoughtfully. Aim for balance in flavor and texture—for example, with creamy elements (like egg or remoulade), fresh garnishes (dill, radish), and something with a bit of crunch (like crispy onions or pickles).
3. Finish with Garnishes
   Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or chives, a little black pepper, or a drizzle of lemon juice. Each element is meant to stand out, so keep garnishes light but purposeful.

Conclusion​

Smørrebrød isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an art form in Denmark, all about balancing flavors and textures while keeping it beautifully simple. Perfect for a light lunch or a fun gathering, it’s something you can customize endlessly to fit your tastes. Each bite is rich, vibrant, and, honestly, hard to resist!