SMOKED SALMON BUTTER
A Twist on a Classic butter
Are you looking for an effortless yet sophisticated aperitif for your Christmas parties? Look no further than my homemade smoked salmon butter. I realized it each time and this butter is always a hit among my guests…
Smoked Salmon: From Preservation to Culinary bliss
Smoking salmon is a traditional preservation method used to extend the shelf life of fish, allowing it to be transported over long distances. However, over time, the smoking process became a culinary technique that enhanced the taste and texture of the fish.
Smoked salmon has its origins in Eastern Europe, where Jewish immigrants from Russia and Poland brought the technique of salmon smoking to London’s East End in the late 19th century. They smoked salmon to preserve it since refrigeration was very basic at that time.
Today, smoked salmon is a delicacy enjoyed by many people worldwide. Its versatility makes it a popular ingredient in various dishes, including salads, pasta, and, of course, appetizers.
Côtes Catalanes: An Overview of the IGP
To complement the smoky flavors of the salmon butter, I recommend pairing it with a Côtes Catalanes (White) from my beautiful Languedoc-Roussillon.
Côtes Catalanes is a well-known Indication Géographique Protégée (IGP) that encompasses the same area as the Côtes du Roussillon AOC. This region is famous for its production of dry white wines made from various grape varieties. The blend of Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc, Picpoul, Roussanne, Marsanne, Vermentino, and Viognier is what makes Côtes Catalanes stand out.
The Characteristics of Côtes Catalanes Wine
Côtes Catalanes is highly regarded for its crispness and freshness. It is curated by numerous organic and biodynamic wine growers in the region, who put in a lot of effort and passion to produce a high-quality product.
The wine’s appearance is also quite striking, with a green-yellow colour that has bright reflections. It boasts a very aromatic nose with a strong intensity and a hint of vanilla, along with ripe fruits like banana and exotic fruits.
The Region of Côtes Catalanes
The Côtes Catalanes region covers almost the entire French département of Pyrénées-Orientales. It is framed to the north, west, and south by the three mountain ranges of Corbières, Canigou, and Albères. This geographical location provides a unique terroir that contributes to the distinct profile of Côtes Catalanes wine.
Customize Your Smoked Salmon Butter to Your Liking
If you cannot find smoked salmon, do not fret – smoked trout is an excellent substitute that will give you a similar flavour profile. And if you are feeling adventurous, you can always experiment with different types of fish to create your unique twist on this classic recipe. I recommend serving this butter with fresh crusty bread and an assortment of vegetables, such as carrots, cucumber, cauliflower, etc for dipping.
A Delicious and Nutritious Choice: The Health Benefits of Smoked Salmon
SMOKED SALMON BUTTER
Ingredients
- 100 g butter room temperature
- 100 g smoked salmon sliced
- 1 little lemon juice
- 1 dill sprig optional
Instructions
- With your hand blender, reduce in purée all the ingredients listed above.
- Transfer the mixture in a little bowl.
- Set aside in the fridge.
- Take it out 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Beurre de saumon fumé
100 g de beurre à température ambiante
100 g de saumon fumé
Le jus d’1 petit citron
1 brin d’aneth (facultatif)
À l’aide d’un mixeur plongeant, réduisez les ingrédients listés en purée.
Transférez le beurre dans un petit bol.
Entreposez-le au réfrigérateur.
Sortez le beurre 5 minutes avant de le servir.
