High Society Cucumber Sandwiches – the Dos and Don’ts

Cucumber Sandwiches – the Dos and Don’ts

This cucumber sandwich with cream cheese recipe started out as a bit of fun, but we soon realised that cucumber sandwiches are a pretty serious recipe. Well, in relative terms anyway.

I’ve eaten a lot of sandwiches in my life – as I calculated in this avocado sandwich recipe, probably about 8000. And that was two years ago!

Although I have slowed down on my sandwich intake, I still very much appreciate a good sandwich. And cucumber sandwiches rank up there with the best.

A mainstay of any excellent British garden party, the cucumber sandwich must pass several rigorous tests.

Be prepared to pass all scrutiny

Firstly, the bread must be extremely soft. White is more traditional, though wholegrain is absolutely fine. It’s the softness that’s important.

Secondly, the cream cheese and butter should be spread thickly. This a decadent sandwich, not one for the health-conscious.

Thirdly, the cucumber should be sliced thinly, and without skin. Just a little salt and pepper should be used, as it can quickly become overpowering. Dill or mint leaves are your friend – they pair well with cucumber and easily bring the sandwich up a level.

Optionally, you may remove the crusts from the cucumber sandwich. High-society usually did this, and would surely still approve – we don’t, however. What a waste of bread. And good food is not something that should be wasted. That being said, if you have a favourite dog/child/servant willing to eat said bread, knock yourselves out.

Anything else?

Finally, cucumber sandwiches should be presented as elegantly as possible. If you have a silver platter, this will do perfectly. Otherwise the ‘good china’ will do in a pinch. Although guests may eat from paper plates at impromptu picnics in the garden, a good cucumber sandwich must never be served on paper.

Now you’re armed with the knowledge to make the best cucumber sandwiches with cream cheese you’ve ever had. So, push forth and enjoy your endeavors and guest-pleasing adulation.