Open-faced sandwiches are a true staple of Danish cuisine, loved for their simplicity and endless variety. With just one slice of bread, these sandwiches let the fresh, high-quality toppings steal the show.
From meats and cheeses to veggies and seafood, there’s a topping for everyone. Each sandwich isn’t just delicious, it’s also a feast for the eyes! Whether you’re a tourist looking to dive into Danish food traditions or just love Scandinavian flavours, open-faced sandwiches are a must-try.
In this blog, we’ll look into why these sandwiches are such a big deal in Denmark and talk about the best breads to use. You’ll also get some easy-to-follow recipes to try at home, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned cook.
Plus, we’ll give you the scoop on the best spots in Denmark to enjoy these sandwiches and share some fun, creative ideas to make your own!
What is an Open-Faced Sandwich?
An open-faced sandwich, or smørrebrød in Denmark, is a classic Danish dish. It’s made with just one slice of bread, letting the toppings steal the show. Unlike a regular sandwich with two slices of bread, smørrebrød is all about highlighting the flavour and quality of the ingredients.
The toppings—whether savoury or sweet—are the star of the show.
Rye bread is the go-to in Denmark, especially for traditional smørrebrød. But you’ll also see sourdough or whole grain breads used to match different flavours.
What makes open-faced sandwiches special is their simplicity and versatility. You can layer them with whatever you like (although things like fresh veggies, cheeses, cured meats, or seafood like smoked salmon, shrimp or fried plaice is among the most traditional choices). This makes open-faced sandwiches as much of a cooking discipline, as it makes them a meal.
Danish smørrebrød also stands out for its presentation. Chefs love to garnish with colourful toppings like herbs, pickled onions, or radishes, making each sandwich look as good as it tastes.
Where is the Open-Faced Sandwich From?
The open-faced sandwich, or smørrebrød, started in Denmark back in the 19th century. Farmers needed something simple and filling during long workdays, so they grabbed a slice of hearty rye bread and topped it with whatever leftovers they had—cold meats, cheese, or pickled veggies. What began as a practical meal quickly turned into a Danish favourite.
As Denmark’s cities grew, so did the love for smørrebrød. It moved from farms to cafés and restaurants, where chefs began adding new ingredients and fancy presentations.
Today, smørrebrød is much more than a farmer’s meal. Chefs put serious care into crafting these sandwiches, using fresh ingredients to boost both flavour and appearance.
While it’s still a Danish staple, smørrebrød has gained fans all over the world. Whether for a quick lunch or an elegant dinner, these open-faced sandwiches perfectly blend simplicity with creativity and tradition.
Why are Open-Faced Sandwiches so Popular?
Apart from it’s cultural history, the Open-Faced sandwich itself has a range of qualities, making it popular among both hardcore foodies, and those who just want a bite to eat.
The magic of Open-Faced Sandwiches come from the flavour combinations. These dishes often combine sweet and tangy, salty and savory, and basically all the spectrums when it comes to flavour – creating umami in every bite. The textures are also often a combination of crisp and soft, satisfying the entire pallet of your mouth. This is no truer than when it comes to the “Shooting Star”, (which you can read more about below) which is really in a league of it’s own (and due to the sheer size and amount of ingredients, also cost a premium at restaurants).
Which Bread is Used for the Open-Faced Sandwich?
The key to any great open-faced sandwich is the bread. In Denmark, rugbrød is the go-to. This dense, fibre-packed rye bread has a slightly sour taste and a firm texture that pairs perfectly with savoury toppings like smoked fish, meats, or cheese.
What’s great about rugbrød is its sturdy structure—it holds up to heavy toppings without getting soggy.
But you don’t have to stick to rye bread. Sourdough, whole grain, or even white bread can work just as well. It all depends on your taste and the toppings you want. Each bread brings its own flavour, so pick one that complements your ingredients. White bread is particularly a popular option for fish and seafood toppings – particularly the “Shooting Star” specialty – Stjerneskud, which is an extravagant seafood-buffet-on-bread meal, cointaining both steamed and fried filets of plaice, shrimp, roe and toppings. Although this can also come on rye bread, it’s most commonly found on fluffy, fresh-baked white bread.
Pro tip: If you can’t find rye bread locally, IKEA sells a solid rye bread mix. It’s an easy way to make a traditional Danish sandwich at home.
What are Common Danish Toppings for Smørrebrød?
Smørrebrød, the classic Danish open-faced sandwich, is known for its diverse and delicious toppings. These toppings often combine savory ingredients with fresh, colorful garnishes. Here are some of the most popular choices:
- Smoked salmon with dill, capers, and lemon slices
- Pickled herring with onions, capers, and boiled egg
- Roast beef with crispy onions, horseradish, and remoulade
- Eggs and shrimp with mayonnaise, chives, and lemon
- Liver pâté with bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and pickled beets
- Cheese with radishes, cucumber, or apple slices
- Smoked mackerel with cottage cheese and radishes
- Pan-Fried plaice with dill, tomatoes and remoulade
Each topping highlights Denmark’s love for fresh, simple ingredients that deliver big on flavour. Whether you’re enjoying a seafood-based topping or a meat-heavy version, smørrebrød offers endless possibilities for customization.
Top 5 Open-Faced Sandwich Recipes
Open-faced sandwiches are a great way to show off fresh, high-quality ingredients while keeping things simple and tasty. With just one slice of bread, you’ve got a world of flavours and textures to play with. The best part? The endless variety of recipes you can try.
Whether you’re after something light or a more filling meal, there’s a sandwich for every craving. The real fun is in how easy it is to customise. Feeling savoury, sweet, or maybe a bit of both? The possibilities are endless!
Recipe 1: Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese
This classic Danish smørrebrød is a delicious combination of smoked salmon and cream cheese. Here’s a quick and easy recipe for a classic Danish smørrebrød with smoked salmon and cream cheese:
- Start with the bread: Grab a slice of rye bread as your base.
- Spread the cream cheese: Slather on a generous layer of cream cheese. Its richness goes great with the smoky salmon.
- Add the salmon: Lay thin slices of smoked salmon on top for that perfect flavour and texture combo.
- Sprinkle capers: Add a few capers for a salty, briny kick.
- Top with red onions: Finish with thinly sliced red onions for some sharpness and crunch.
That’s it! A simple but flavour-packed sandwich, perfect for lunch or as a fancy appetizer. Enjoy!
Recipe 2: Roast Beef with Horseradish Sauce
This roast beef open-faced sandwich is a hearty and flavourful option. Here’s a quick and tasty recipe for a roast beef open-faced sandwich:
- Start with the bread: Place thin slices of roast beef on a piece of toasted sourdough. The tangy sourdough goes perfectly with the rich beef.
- Add the sauce: Generously drizzle tangy horseradish sauce over the beef. It cuts through the richness and adds the perfect sharpness.
- Top with greens: Throw on a handful of fresh arugula for a peppery kick that complements both the beef and the sauce.
And that’s it! A hearty, flavour-packed sandwich, great for lunch or a quick dinner. Enjoy the mix of flavours and textures in every bite!
Recipe 3: Turkey with Gravy and Mashed Potatoes
For a comforting, hearty meal, this open-faced turkey sandwich hits the spot. Here’s an easy and comforting open-faced turkey sandwich recipe:
- Start with the bread: Layer thin slices of roasted turkey on a piece of whole grain bread. The earthy bread goes great with juicy turkey.
- Add the gravy: Generously pour warm gravy over the turkey. It adds a rich, holiday-meal vibe to the sandwich.
- Serve with mashed potatoes: Pair the sandwich with a side of creamy mashed potatoes. The buttery potatoes are the perfect match for the savoury sandwich.
This is perfect for a cosy lunch or dinner when you’re craving something warm and comforting! Enjoy the classic combo of turkey, gravy, and potatoes with a fun, open-faced twist.
Recipe 4: Avocado and Poached Egg
For a fresh and lighter option, this avocado and poached egg open-faced sandwich is perfect. Here’s a quick and tasty recipe for an avocado and poached egg open-faced sandwich:
- Smash the avocado: Mash up some ripe avocado and spread it generously on a slice of whole grain toast. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the hearty texture of the bread.
- Add the poached egg: Gently place a poached egg on top of the avocado. The runny yolk will mix with the avocado for extra richness.
- Season it: Sprinkle a bit of salt to bring out the flavours, and add a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle kick.
This simple, flavour-packed sandwich is perfect for breakfast or a light lunch. With healthy fats and protein, it’ll keep you full and satisfied while tasting amazing!
Recipe 5: Hummus and Roasted Vegetables
This hummus and roasted vegetable open-faced sandwich is a great vegetarian option. Here’s a simple and tasty recipe for a hummus and roasted vegetable open-faced sandwich:
- Spread the hummus: Start by spreading a generous layer of hummus on a slice of rye bread. The creamy hummus makes a tasty, smooth base.
- Add roasted veggies: Pile on a mix of roasted vegetables like zucchini, red peppers, and eggplant. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness for a rich, satisfying bite.
- Enjoy the balance: The hearty rye bread pairs perfectly with the roasted veggies, making a flavourful and filling combo.
This sandwich is a healthy, plant-based option, full of protein and fibre. It’s great for a light lunch or snack, with the creamy hummus and caramelised veggies making every bite delicious!
Top 5 Open-Faced Sandwich Restaurants in Denmark
If you’re looking to try the best smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) in Denmark, these five restaurants are essential stops:
- Aamanns 1921 – Aamanns puts a modern twist on traditional smørrebrød by using fresh, local ingredients. Their creative flavours and presentation make it a must-visit for anyone wanting a contemporary take on this Danish classic.
- Schønnemann – As one of Copenhagen’s oldest restaurants, Schønnemann offers a more historic experience. Their menu features classic sandwiches like herring and liver pate, made with recipes passed down through generations.
- Restaurant Kronborg – Located in the heart of Copenhagen, this cozy restaurant offers an authentic smørrebrød experience. With an emphasis on quality ingredients and traditional methods, Restaurant Kronborg brings the Danish comfort food experience to life.
- Told & Snaps – A laid-back restaurant known for its excellent sandwiches and friendly atmosphere, Told & Snaps is a favorite among both locals and tourists. Their traditional take on smørrebrød is simple yet full of flavour.
- Palægade – For a more refined dining experience, Palægade serves high-end versions of classic Danish open-faced sandwiches. Their attention to detail and elevated presentation make them stand out.
Conclusion
Open-faced sandwiches, or smørrebrød, are more than just food—they’re a big part of Danish culture. They strike the perfect balance between simple and creative, giving you the freedom to try all kinds of toppings, from classic smoked salmon on rye to roast beef with horseradish. Plus, they’re super versatile—great for a quick snack or a more elaborate meal – although the latter is the more common.
Rooted in Danish farming traditions, smørrebrød has grown into an iconic dish loved worldwide. Now that you know a bit about its history, the best breads, and some tasty recipes, it’s easy to make these sandwiches at home. Whether you stick to traditional toppings or mix it up with new flavours, the possibilities are endless.
So, now that you’ve got the basics down, what’s stopping you from creating your own delicious open-faced sandwich?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you freeze open-faced sandwiches?
Since open-faced sandwiches heavily depends on their presentation and freshness, it would be better to only use fresh ingredients.
What toppings go well with open-faced sandwiches?
Options include smoked meats, cheese, fish, avocado, eggs, vegetables, and various spreads like cream cheese.
Are open-faced sandwiches healthier than regular sandwiches?
A traditional open-faced sandwich uses rye bread, which is richer in fiber and lower in sugars than white bread. As such they can be healthier – but this also depends on the toppings and sauces you use.
How do you prevent an open-faced sandwich from becoming soggy?
Use thicker bread, toast it lightly, and avoid adding too liquid toppings. Consider adding sauces on top of the meats or fish instead of below it.
Can you serve open-faced sandwiches at a party?
Absolutely – both as appetizers or even a complete meal!
Can open-faced sandwiches be made vegan?
Absolutely! Try toppings like hummus, roasted vegetables, avocado, and plant-based cheese for a vegan version.
