Beet Smorrebrod

Beet Smorrebrod

For the smorrebrod:

• 3 medium yellow beets, plus 1 small yellow beet for garnish
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 small shallot, thinly sliced
• Tarragon leaves, for garnish
• 4 tbsp. buckwheat
• Four ¹⁄₄-inch-thick slices Danish-style rye bread

For the tarragon mayonnaise:

• ¹⁄₄ cup mayonnaise
• 2 packed tbsp. chopped tarragon leaves
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, add the 3 medium yellow beets and enough water to cover by 1 inch; bring to a boil, then season with 1 tablespoon kosher salt. Cook until the beets are tender when poked with a paring knife, about 35 minutes. Drain and run the beets under cool water while peeling away the skins. Slice away any remaining or unattractive ends.
2. Transfer the cooked beets to a cutting board and cut each into 8 wedges; season with salt and set aside.
3. Meanwhile, make the tarragon mayonnaise: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, tarragon, and a pinch each salt and pepper; stir well to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
4. Using a mandolin, thinly slice the remaining raw yellow beet and the chioggia beet. Transfer to a small bowl of cold water for 5 minutes to keep crisp.
5. Meanwhile, in a small dry skillet, add the buckwheat over medium-high heat. Cook, tossing or stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly toasted, 5-7 minutes. Remove to a small bowl.
6. To assemble, spread each of the rye bread slices with about 2 teaspoons of the prepared tarragon mayonnaise. Top with the cooked beets, overlapping the pieces slightly, then top decoratively with a few slices each of the raw yellow and chioggia beets. Garnish with a few sliced shallots, the buckwheat, and tarragon leaves to taste. Season with salt and pepper and serve.