Fish Pâté
Authentic Fish Pâté Recipe from Iceland - Ingredients: Fish, Eggs, and Cream
Introduction
Fish pâté is a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for entertaining or special occasions. This creamy and flavorful spread is made with fresh fish, eggs, and heavy cream, creating a rich and luxurious texture. The addition of a shrimp sauce adds a burst of seafood flavor that complements the delicate taste of the fish.
History
Fish pâté has been a popular dish in European cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in France, where it was traditionally made with freshwater fish such as trout or pike. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of fish and seafood, making it a versatile and adaptable dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 lb (907 g) of fish
- 1.5 tbsp of salt
- a pinch of white pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1-2 cups of heavy cream
Shrimp sauce
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of fish stock
- 3 cups of Icelandic shrimps (salad shrimps)
How to prepare
- Ensure that all ingredients are chilled for this recipe, including the food processor container.
- Ensure that the knife in the food processor is as sharp as possible.
- Cut the fish into small pieces and place them in the food processor.
- Add salt and pepper.
- Start the food processor and mix for approximately 1.5 minutes.
- Beat the eggs and slowly pour them in.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while the food processor is running, until the mousse reaches the texture of thick mayonnaise.
- Transfer the mousse into a piping bag with a small tube and use it to cover the bottom and sides of a buttered mold.
- Fill the center of the mold with shrimp sauce and seal it with the mousse.
- Bake in a water bath for 8-10 minutes.
- Serve with the remaining sauce and some spinach blanched in butter.
Variations
- Substitute the fish with smoked salmon or canned tuna for a different flavor profile.
- Add herbs, spices, or citrus zest to the mousse for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to chill all ingredients before preparing the pâté to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Use a sharp knife in the food processor to ensure the fish is finely chopped.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while the food processor is running to achieve the desired mousse-like texture.
- Bake the pâté in a water bath to ensure even cooking and prevent the edges from drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fish pâté with crusty bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks for a delicious appetizer or snack.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Use a food processor to finely chop the fish and create a smooth mousse-like texture.
- Bake the pâté in a water bath to ensure even cooking and prevent the edges from drying out.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use Greek yogurt or coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream.
- Substitute the fish stock with vegetable or chicken broth for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the fish mousse and shrimp sauce ahead of time and assemble the pâté just before baking for a stress-free entertaining dish.
Presentation Ideas
Pipe the mousse into individual ramekins or molds for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs, edible flowers, or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve the fish pâté with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the seafood flavors.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover pâté in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
250 per serving
Carbohydrates
3g per serving
Fats
15g per serving
Proteins
20g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is a good source of vitamin D, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Alergens
Contains fish, eggs, and dairy (cream)
Summary
This fish pâté is a rich source of protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish.
Summary
Fish pâté is a luxurious and flavorful dish that is perfect for entertaining or special occasions. This creamy spread is made with fresh fish, eggs, and heavy cream, creating a rich and satisfying appetizer or snack. Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks for a delicious and elegant dish that is sure to impress your guests.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, with a wealth of knowledge that she had acquired from years of cooking for her own family.
One day, while rummaging through her old recipe box, I stumbled upon a faded index card that caught my eye. It was a recipe for Fish Pâté, written in my grandmother's delicate handwriting. I had never heard of such a dish before, but I was intrigued. I asked my grandmother about it, and she smiled warmly, telling me that it was a family recipe that had been passed down through generations.
She sat me down at the kitchen table and began to teach me how to make the Fish Pâté. She explained that it was a simple yet delicious dish, made with fresh fish, herbs, and a few other ingredients. As she talked, her hands moved deftly, showing me how to chop the fish into small pieces, mix in the herbs and spices, and shape the mixture into a smooth pâté.
I watched in awe as my grandmother worked, her movements fluid and precise. She had a way of making even the most complicated recipes seem effortless. I listened intently as she shared stories of how she had learned to make the Fish Pâté from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her.
As we finished preparing the pâté, my grandmother placed it in the oven to bake. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, a tantalizing blend of fish and herbs that made my mouth water. When the pâté was finally ready, we sat down at the table to enjoy our creation.
The first bite was pure heaven. The pâté was creamy and flavorful, with just the right balance of herbs and spices. I could taste the love and care that had gone into making it, and I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire.
Over the years, I have made the Fish Pâté countless times, each time remembering that first day when I learned to make it with my grandmother. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that was passed down to me. And each time I make it, I am reminded of the love and connection that food can bring.
As I sit here now, writing this story, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood back to me. The Fish Pâté recipe is more than just a dish – it is a piece of my family's history, a link to the past that reminds me of the strong women who came before me. And for that, I am eternally grateful.
Categories
| Egg Recipes | Fish Recipes | Fish Stock And Broth Recipes | Heavy Cream Recipes | Icelandic Appetizers | Icelandic Recipes | Pâté Recipes | Seafood Appetizer Recipes | Shrimp Recipes |