Locket’s Savoury: An Elegant Open-Faced Sandwich

I remember the first time I tasted something similar to Locket’s Savoury. It was at a small, dimly lit cheese shop in London, tucked away on a cobblestone street. The cheesemonger, a wizened man with twinkling eyes, offered me a sliver of pear topped with creamy Stilton and a sprig of watercress on a toasted rye cracker. The combination of sweet, salty, and peppery notes, all on a delightfully crisp base, was an epiphany. It was simple, yet incredibly sophisticated, a testament to the magic that can happen when quality ingredients are treated with respect.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yields: 4 open faced sandwiches
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 pear, firm but ripe (Comice or Anjou pears are good choices)
• 4 slices whole grain bread
• 1 cup watercress leaf, coarse stems discarded (about 1/2 bunch)
• ¼ lb Stilton cheese, chilled then sliced

Equipment Needed

• Small baking sheet
• Broiler

Instructions

1. Preheat your broiler.
2. Halve the pear lengthwise and core it, then thinly slice crosswise. Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick.
3. Toast the bread slices on a small baking sheet under the broiler about 3 inches from the heat, turning once, until golden on both sides. Watch carefully; they can burn quickly.
4. Divide the watercress sprigs among the toasts.
5. Cover the watercress with overlapping pear slices.
6. Arrange the Stilton slices over the pear.
7. Broil the sandwiches until the cheese is melted, about 1 minute. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Pear Perfection: Ensure your pear is ripe but still firm. Overripe pears will become mushy when broiled. Comice or Anjou varieties hold their shape well and offer a delicate sweetness that complements the Stilton.
• Bread Matters: Choose a sturdy whole-grain bread that can withstand the weight of the toppings. Sourdough or rye bread also work well, providing a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the pear and the richness of the cheese.
• Stilton Strategy: Chilling the Stilton before slicing makes it easier to handle and prevents it from crumbling. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using a young Stilton.
• Broiler Beware: Broilers vary in intensity. Keep a close watch on the sandwiches to prevent burning. If your broiler is particularly strong, you may need to lower the oven rack or reduce the broiling time.
• Watercress Wisdom: Ensure the watercress is fresh and crisp. Discard any wilted or yellowing leaves. If you can’t find watercress, arugula or baby spinach can be used as substitutes, although they will have a slightly different flavor profile.
• Toast Technique: Toasting the bread beforehand prevents it from becoming soggy under the weight of the toppings. Aim for a golden-brown color; slightly charred edges are perfectly acceptable.
• Assembly Line: For easy assembly, prep all ingredients ahead of time. Slice the pear, slice the cheese, wash and dry the watercress, and have the bread ready to go. This will make the final assembly process quick and efficient.
• Salt Savvy: Stilton is already quite salty, so there is no need to add any additional salt to the sandwiches. If you are using a milder cheese, you may want to add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Locket’s Savoury is best served immediately while the bread is still warm and crisp, and the cheese is perfectly melted. Arrange the open-faced sandwiches on a platter lined with parchment paper for an elegant presentation. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can add a final touch of flavor.

Leftovers, while not ideal (the bread will soften), can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheating is not recommended as it can make the bread soggy and the cheese greasy. It is best to enjoy this dish fresh.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	194 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	84g	44%
Total Fat	9.4 g	14%
Saturated Fat	5.5 g	27%
Cholesterol	21.3 mg	7%
Sodium	546.9 mg	22%
Total Carbohydrate	20.1 g	6%
Dietary Fiber	3.3 g	13%
Sugars	5.8 g	N/A
Protein	9.1 g	18%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Cheese Swap: If Stilton isn’t your thing, try Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or a creamy goat cheese. Each will bring a different dimension of flavor.
• Fruit Forward: Substitute the pear with thinly sliced apple, fig, or even grilled peaches for a seasonal twist.
• Bread Alternatives: Gluten-free bread can be used to make this dish gluten-free. Consider using a hearty gluten-free bread that can hold up to the toppings.
• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pecans over the sandwiches for added texture and nutty flavor.
• Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey over the finished sandwiches can enhance the sweetness of the pear and complement the saltiness of the Stilton.
• Herb Infusion: Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary to the watercress for an aromatic touch.
• Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat to balance the other flavors.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: While the individual components can be prepped in advance, it’s best to assemble and broil the sandwiches just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Q: What if I don’t have a broiler?
A: You can use a toaster oven or bake the sandwiches in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is melted, about 5-7 minutes.

Q: Can I use a different type of pear?
A: Yes, but choose a variety that is firm and holds its shape when cooked, such as Bosc or Bartlett. Avoid overly soft pears, like some varieties of D’Anjou, which can become mushy.

Q: What can I serve with Locket’s Savoury?
A: It pairs well with a crisp green salad, a glass of dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc), or as part of a cheese course.

Q: How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
A: Toasting the bread thoroughly before adding the toppings is key. Also, avoid over-broiling, as this can cause the cheese to release excess moisture.

Final Thoughts

Locket’s Savoury is more than just an open-faced sandwich; it’s an experience. The harmonious blend of sweet, salty, creamy, and crisp textures creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your palate. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated dinner party, enjoying a leisurely brunch, or simply craving a quick and elegant snack, this dish is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your broiler, and prepare to indulge in a taste of refined simplicity. And, by all means, don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and substitutions to create your own signature version of this timeless classic. Bon appétit!