You are having an afternoon tea with the ladies and must serve something to accompany the tea. No, this is not an occasion for chips and dip or crudite. It calls for something more pristine—namely tea sandwiches.

What are tea sandwiches? The uninformed may ask. Tea sandwiches are small, dainty sandwiches that can be consumed in one or two bites. In fact, tea sandwich recipes may include everything from Cucumber Tea Sandwiches, Tomato Tea Sandwiches, Almond Chicken Salad Sandwiches, Pepper Cheese Sandwiches, Pineapple-Cream Cheese Sandwiches, and Hummus in Pita Bread. Each recipe has its own distinct ingredients but generally, it is best to be aware that there are five characteristics of traditional tea sandwiches.

Firstly, they are small. They are generally cut into 4 bite-size pieces—either four squares or triangles or three fingers. Sometimes, hostesses choose to utilize a cookie cutter, but that technique is not recommended because a lot of the sandwich goes to waste.

Secondly, tea sandwich recipes have no crust. The crust is removed before making the tea sandwich for a tea sandwich recipe. This is for aesthetic not nutritional purposes.

Thirdly, the slices of bread are thin. This-sliced bread is available in many different types. German bread is thin sliced and makes a great tea sandwich. If you cannot find German bread, buy square-topped unsliced loaves of bread, and have the baker behind the counter slice them for you. You can even do it yourself if you have the right kitchen utensils. Use your electric knife or a knife you carve turkey with. They will work.

Fourth, tea sandwiches are tasty. Your guests will love them.

Fifth, most tea sandwiches are spread with butter and/or cream cheese.