Professor McGonagall’s Sandwich Platter | Harry Potter Inspired Recipes

What’s Up, Hungry Muggles

It’s Harry Potter week here on the Starving Chef’s blog. Every year for the better part of a decade, I’ve dedicated the last week of July to celebrate the Boy Who Lived. Harry Potter was a massive part of my childhood – I even went to several midnight releases for the books and the movies (in full wizarding apparel, might I add). But as I’ve grown, the love for Harry Potter and the Wizarding World has only grown deeper.

This year, I’m exploring obscure food references in the books that literally made me so hungry that I had to stop reading and get up to make something about it.

In the Chamber of Secrets, Harry and Ron are blocked from entering Platform 9 3/4 and decide the best course of action is to try to fly to Hogwarts in the Weasley family’s flying car. While they do make it to Hogwarts, they end up crashing into the Whomping Willow. The boys are found by Snape and taken to his office, where Professor McGonagall conjures up a platter of sandwiches for them because they missed the opening feast. The plate magically refills with different sandwiches and the boys are able to eat their fill without putting a dent in the pile of sandwiches.

“Professor McGonagall raised her wand again and pointed it at Snape’s desk. A large plate of sandwiches, two silver goblets, and a goblet of iced pumpkin juice appeared with a pop.”

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

For whatever reason, when I first read this book as a kid (and when I read it again and again and again and again and again…), this particular scene always made my stomach grumble.

“Have a Biscuit, Potter”

Tea sandwiches are a common snack served at “afternoon tea” and can consist of many different combinations. Traditionally, you’ll find egg salad and watercress, cucumber and herbed cream cheese, smoked salmon or tuna salad, ham and chicken with cheese, and more, sandwiched between two slices of white, wheat, or rye and the crusts removed.

In the scene in the book, it’s mentioned Ron is eating a sandwich stuffed with chicken and ham – but I’d like to think the House Elves in the kitchens would have sent up a variety of options for the boys to choose from, in true House Elf fashion.

Mix & Match for Magical Sandwiches

Just like McGonagall’s enchanted platter of sandwiches, there is no limit to how many sandwiches you can make or what you stuff in them. For my sandwiches, I kept with a more traditional fare: ham and cheese, mini muffaletta, cucumbers or radishes and Boursin cheese, smoked salmon and cream cheese, and tuna salad.

Here’s What You Need

Conjure up your favorite sandwiches for your platter – here’s what I used for mine:

Mini Muffaletta

• Ham – savory and hearty filling.
• Wheat bread – holds everything together.
• Tapenade – adds a rich, briny flavor.
• Swiss cheese – creamy and slightly nutty.

Ham & Cheddar

• White bread – classic base for any sandwich.
• Mayonnaise – adds moisture and a bit of tang.
• Sweet pickle relish – brings a sweet and tangy crunch.
• Cheddar cheese – sharp and flavorful.
• Ham – the main protein.

Radish & Rye

• Marble rye bread – robust and flavorful.
• Radishes – adds a peppery crunch.
• Boursin herbed Gournay cheese – creamy and herby.

Cucumber & Cheese

• Wheat bread – hearty and wholesome.
• English cucumber – refreshing and crisp.
• Boursin herbed Gournay cheese – creamy and herby.

Tuna Salad

• Wheat bread – sturdy and healthy base.
• Tuna salad – creamy, savory, and protein-packed.

Egg Salad

• White bread – soft and mild.
• Egg salad – classic and creamy.

Smoked Salmon & Cucumber

• White bread – soft and mild.
• Smoked salmon or gravlax – rich, smoky, and slightly salty.
• Cream cheese – smooth and tangy.
• Cucumber – fresh and crunchy.

Let’s Make Some Magic

Start by laying out your slices of bread. For each sandwich, spread your chosen base – whether it’s mayonnaise, tapenade, or cream cheese. Layer on your main ingredients like ham, cheese, or tuna salad. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add a little extra of your favorite toppings!

Wrapping and Slicing

Once your sandwiches are assembled, wrap each one in plastic wrap. This will help keep them together as you slice. Using a serrated knife, cut each sandwich in half. While still holding the pieces together, slice off the crusts. Unwrap the sandwiches, and just like magic – you’ve got two small, crustless sandwiches ready to go.

Stacking the Platter

Assemble your platter by stacking the sandwiches in a large pile. The more, the merrier! Not only does it look impressive, but it also ensures there’s plenty for everyone.

Tips for Perfect Tea Sandwiches

• Keep it Fresh: Use the freshest bread and ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
• Spread Evenly: Make sure to spread your bases evenly to avoid soggy spots.
• Chill Time: Let your assembled sandwiches chill in the fridge for a bit before slicing for cleaner cuts.
• Mix & Match: Don’t hesitate to mix different fillings and create your unique combinations.
• Crusts Off Last: Cutting off the crusts after slicing the sandwich keeps everything neat and tidy.

And there you have it, Hungry People – a sandwich platter worthy of a Hogwarts feast! Whether you’re munching on ham and cheddar or savoring the unique combo of radish and rye, these sandwiches are sure to transport you straight to the Great Hall. Remember, the magic is in the mix and match, so feel free to experiment with your favorite fillings. Happy eating, and don’t forget to dodge the Whomping Willow when landing a flying car on Hogwarts grounds.

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