Difficulty Level: Advanced
Why it’s great for your cooking channel: This recipe showcases an upscale appetizer that’s ideal for your cooking channel. It combines classic flavors with a modern presentation, making it a great choice for entertaining and festive occasions. It’s also versatile and can be customized with different types of caviar or garnishes.
Description: Smoked Salmon and Caviar Blinis are elegant, bite-sized delights that feature mini pancakes topped with rich crème fraîche, silky smoked salmon, and a touch of luxurious caviar. These savory appetizers are perfect for special occasions and will impress your guests with their sophisticated flavors.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Serving size: Makes approximately 20 blinis (4-5 servings)
Ingredients:
- For the Blinis:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup crème fraîche
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons caviar (black or red)
- Fresh dill for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Blinis:
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the egg and then add the milk and melted butter.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter.
- Pour small amounts of batter onto the skillet to form mini pancakes. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Assemble the Blinis:
- Once the blinis are cooked and slightly cooled, spread a small dollop of crème fraîche on each one.
- Top with a slice of smoked salmon.
- Garnish with a small spoonful of caviar.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh dill and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Final Thoughts: Smoked Salmon and Caviar Blinis are an exquisite appetizer that brings a touch of luxury to any gathering. The combination of flavors—from the creamy crème fraîche to the rich smoked salmon and the briny caviar—creates a delightful taste experience. This recipe is sure to add sophistication to your cooking channel and impress viewers with its elegant presentation and flavors.
