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Smørrebrød med Roastbeef (Danish Open-Faced Roast Beef Sandwich)

A classic Danish open-faced sandwich featuring tender sliced roast beef on rye bread, topped with crispy fried onions, horseradish cream, and fresh garnishes. A sophisticated Nordic lunch that's both elegant and deeply satisfying.

Total time
25 min
Servings
2
Calories
485
Protein
28g
Smørrebrød med Roastbeef (Danish Open-Faced Roast Beef Sandwich)
scandinaviandanishbeefsandwichlunchopen-faced

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Separate the onion slices into rings and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

  2. Step 2

    Remove roast beef from refrigerator 10 minutes before assembly to bring to room temperature slightly.

  3. Step 3

    Chop fresh dill finely and set aside.

  4. Step 4

    Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion rings and fry for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy. Transfer to paper towels and season with salt.

  5. Step 5

    Toast rye bread slices lightly in the same skillet or toaster until edges are crispy but centers remain slightly soft.

  6. Step 6

    Spread softened butter thinly on each toasted rye slice.

  7. Step 7

    Spread horseradish cream evenly over the butter on all four slices.

  8. Step 8

    Arrange roast beef slices neatly on top of each bread slice, folding gently to create texture.

  9. Step 9

    Top each sandwich with a generous handful of crispy fried onions.

  10. Step 10

    Garnish with fresh dill, capers or pickled cucumber, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Season with sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Tools you’ll need

  • 12-inch stainless steel skillet
  • cutting board
  • sharp knife
  • paper towels
  • toaster or toaster oven
  • butter knife or offset spatula
  • serving plate

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