Almond-Crusted Curry Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the almonds on a baking sheet, and toast until fragrant and golden, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a bowl to cool, and gently crush. Set aside.

   Step 2

   In a medium saucepan, combine the chicken, salt, onion, peppercorns, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat; reduce heat, and simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 20 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate to cool; reserve the stock for another use.

   Step 3

   When the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred the meat and chop it into small pieces. Return to the plate; cover, and place in refrigerator until ready to use.

   Step 4

   In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, curry powder, chutney, vinegar, and toasted coconut; stir to combine. Reserve 1/2 cup curry mayonnaise, and stir the remaining mayonnaise into the chicken. Thinly spread butter on 2 slices bread; cover 1 slice with a thin layer of chicken salad, and top with the other bread slice. Set aside. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

   Step 5

   Stack several sandwiches; use a serrated knife to trim the crusts and cut into 2 rectangles. Arrange the sandwiches in a single row on the serving tray; they should rest on one long edge with the short ends standing upright. Spread a dab of reserved curry mayonnaise on the short ends, and gently pat on the almonds. Serve immediately. (Do not cover with damp paper towels, or the almonds will become soft.)