Blini with salmon cream

The perfect appetizer for festive days: Blini with smoked salmon cream

When it comes to special gatherings and holidays, appetizers play a crucial role in setting the right atmosphere. Blini with smoked salmon cream are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly refined, capable of impressing even the most discerning guests. This dish combines a fluffy base with a smooth salmon cream, enhanced with delicious caviar and fresh flavors. I invite you to discover this simple yet sophisticated recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 6 minutes
Total time: 26 minutes
Servings: 12 blini

Ingredients

For the blini:
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
- 50 g melted butter
- 120 ml milk
- 120 g flour
- 1 tablespoon dry yeast

For the salmon cream:
- 200 g smoked salmon fillet
- 120 g fresh cottage cheese (0.2% fat, from Delaco)
- 100 g soft butter
- A pinch of salt
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground green pepper

For decoration:
- Capelin roe (or salmon roe for an extra touch of luxury)
- Parsley or dill leaves
- Freshly ground green pepper

Preparation

1. Making the blini:
- Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It's essential for the egg whites to be cold to achieve a well-beaten foam, so I suggest leaving them in the fridge before using.
- In a bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until you get a firm and glossy foam.
- In another bowl, mix the yolks with the melted butter and milk. Make sure the butter is not too hot to avoid cooking the yolks.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour with the salt and dry yeast, then add the wet ingredients mixture. Use a whisk to mix everything well until there are no lumps. The batter should be slightly soft but not as fluid as pancake batter.

2. Proofing the batter:
- Let the batter rise in a warm place for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it will make the blini fluffy and airy. An ideal spot would be near a radiator or in an oven preheated to 30 degrees Celsius.

3. Incorporating the egg whites:
- Once the batter has risen, carefully fold in the egg white foam, mixing gently with a spatula. It's important not to overmix to preserve the air in the egg whites.

4. Baking the blini:
- Preheat the oven to 175 degrees Celsius. Prepare a muffin tin by spraying a little oil in each space. Fill each mold with a spoonful of the batter.
- Bake the blini for 5-6 minutes, or until they turn golden and fluffy. Try not to open the oven door in the first 5 minutes to avoid disrupting the baking process.

5. Preparing the salmon cream:
- In a food processor, add the smoked salmon and blend until you achieve a fine paste. This step is essential for ensuring a creamy texture.
- Add the cottage cheese and continue blending until everything is well combined.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice for a fresh and balanced taste.
- In another bowl, whip the soft butter with an electric mixer. Then, add the salmon cream and mix with a spatula until everything is well incorporated. Let the cream chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

6. Assembling the appetizer:
- Once the blini have cooled, use a piping bag to add the salmon cream on each blin. Decorate with roe, freshly ground green pepper, and a leaf of parsley or dill for a pop of color and flavor.

Helpful tips
- For an extra flavor boost, add a few drops of Worcestershire sauce to the salmon cream. This ingredient adds an umami note that will delight your taste buds.
- Variations: Try substituting the smoked salmon with tuna or shrimp, depending on your preferences.
- Serving: This appetizer pairs perfectly with a glass of champagne or dry white wine, which will complement the delicate flavors of the salmon.

Nutritional benefits
Blini with salmon cream are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients:
- Salmon is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which help maintain heart health.
- Cottage cheese contains quality protein and is low in fat, making it ideal for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- The olive oil or butter used in the preparation contributes to the intake of healthy fats.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I substitute cottage cheese with another type of cheese?
Yes, you can use goat cheese or ricotta for a more intense flavor.

- How long can I keep the blini and salmon cream?
Blini can be kept at room temperature for a day, but the salmon cream should be refrigerated and consumed within 2-3 days.

- Can I prepare the batter in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a day ahead and store it in the fridge, but make sure to allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

This appetizer is an excellent choice for holidays, but it can also be enjoyed on ordinary days, turning every meal into a special occasion. So let’s indulge in fine flavors, gather with friends, and enjoy a glass of champagne while savoring these delicious blini with smoked salmon cream. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: For the blinis: 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt, 50g melted butter, 120ml milk, 120g flour, 1 tablespoon dry yeast. For the salmon cream: 200g smoked salmon fillet, 120g fresh cottage cheese 0.2% fat from Delaco, 100g soft butter, a pinch of salt, juice from 1 lemon, 1 teaspoon freshly ground green pepper. For decoration: I used capelin roe (salmon roe or caviar works well too), parsley or dill leaves, freshly ground green pepper.

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