Tomato Tea Sandwiches
Tomato Tea Sandwiches Recipe - Vegetarian Food from United Kingdom
Vegetarian dietIntroduction
Tomato tea sandwiches are a classic and elegant dish that is perfect for afternoon tea or a light lunch. These sandwiches are simple to make, yet bursting with flavor from the ripe, juicy tomatoes.
History
Tomato tea sandwiches have been a popular choice for tea parties and gatherings for many years. The combination of fresh tomatoes and buttered bread creates a delightful and refreshing snack that is loved by many.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Place the tomatoes, with the stalks removed, in a bowl. Pour boiling water over them and let them sit for 1 minute. Then, remove the skins.
- Use kitchen paper to pat the tomatoes dry. Slice them thinly and arrange the slices on buttered bread.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place another slice of bread on top and press down firmly.
- Trim off the crusts and cut the sandwiches into triangles.
- Arrange the sandwiches neatly on a serving plate and cover with a slightly damp tea cloth until ready to serve.
- Alternatively, you can use a thicker slice of tomato on the buttered bread. Season with salt and pepper, place the top slice, and cut with a round cookie cutter that is large enough for the tomato slice.
Variations
- Try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as basil or parsley to the sandwiches for an extra burst of flavor. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as whole wheat or sourdough, for a unique twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
When making tomato tea sandwiches, be sure to use ripe, firm tomatoes for the best flavor. Removing the skins by blanching the tomatoes in boiling water makes for a smoother texture. Pressing down firmly on the sandwiches before cutting helps to hold them together and creates a neat presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve tomato tea sandwiches with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Techniques
The key to making perfect tomato tea sandwiches is to slice the tomatoes thinly and evenly, and to press down firmly on the sandwiches before cutting. This helps to ensure that the sandwiches hold together and look neat and tidy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have access to ripe tomatoes, you can use sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers as a tasty alternative. You can also use vegan butter or margarine for a dairy-free version of this recipe.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the tomato tea sandwiches a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to cover them with a damp tea cloth to prevent them from drying out.
Presentation Ideas
Arrange the tomato tea sandwiches on a tiered serving tray for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a decorative touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Tomato tea sandwiches pair well with a variety of beverages, such as iced tea, lemonade, or a glass of sparkling wine. They also go well with other tea party favorites like scones and finger sandwiches.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover tomato tea sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them in a toaster oven or oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of tomato tea sandwiches contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of tomato tea sandwiches contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of tomato tea sandwiches contains approximately 10 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of tomato tea sandwiches contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as potassium and folate. These nutrients help to support overall health and well-being.
Alergens
This recipe contains gluten from the bread and dairy from the butter. It may not be suitable for those with gluten or dairy allergies.
Summary
Tomato tea sandwiches are a light and flavorful snack that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy choice for a light meal.
Summary
Tomato tea sandwiches are a delightful and refreshing snack that is perfect for any occasion. With their simple yet delicious combination of ripe tomatoes and buttered bread, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit with your guests. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
by its simplicity and elegance. It was a warm summer day, many years ago, when I attended a garden party hosted by a dear friend. As I mingled with the other guests, I couldn't help but notice the delicate tea sandwiches that were being passed around on silver platters. They were unlike any I had seen before - small triangles of bread filled with a creamy tomato mixture and garnished with fresh herbs.
I approached my friend, who was busy in the kitchen preparing more sandwiches, and asked her for the recipe. She smiled and handed me a piece of paper with the instructions written in her elegant handwriting. "Tomato Tea Sandwiches," she said, "a family recipe passed down through generations."
As I read through the ingredients and method, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me. The combination of ripe tomatoes, creamy mayonnaise, and a hint of fresh basil reminded me of my own childhood spent in the kitchen with my grandmother. She was the one who taught me how to cook, sharing her knowledge and love of food with me every step of the way.
I decided then and there that I would master this recipe and make it a staple in my own culinary repertoire. I went home that evening and gathered the necessary ingredients, carefully following each step as outlined on the piece of paper. The end result was a plate of beautiful, delicious tomato tea sandwiches that tasted just as good as they looked.
Over the years, I have made these sandwiches for countless occasions - bridal showers, baby showers, picnics in the park. Each time, they are met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I always smile and tell the story of how I learned to make them, passing on the tradition and the love that was given to me so many years ago.
As I sit here now, writing this story, I can't help but feel grateful for all the wonderful people who have shared their recipes and knowledge with me over the years. Each dish I make is a tribute to them, a way of keeping their memory alive through the art of cooking.
So if you ever find yourself in need of a delicious and elegant tea sandwich recipe, look no further than these Tomato Tea Sandwiches. They are a true labor of love, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass on this recipe to someone special in your life, just as I have done with you.