Smoked Eel Pate
Smoked Eel Pate Recipe from Netherlands | Ingredients: eel, cream cheese, lemon juice, cream
Introduction
Smoked eel pate is a luxurious and flavorful spread that is perfect for serving at parties or as a special treat for yourself. The rich and smoky flavor of the eel pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the pate, making it a delicious and indulgent dish.
History
Smoked eel has been a popular delicacy in many cultures for centuries. In Europe, smoked eel has been enjoyed as a delicacy since the Middle Ages, and it is still a popular ingredient in many traditional dishes. Eel is known for its rich flavor and buttery texture, making it a perfect choice for pate.
Ingredients
- 1 kg smoked eel
- 60 g butter
- 60 g packaged cream cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cream
- salt and pepper
How to prepare
- Remove the skin from the eel and scrape the flesh from the bones.
- Place the flesh in a food processor or blender and process or blend until smooth.
- Add the soft butter and cream cheese, followed by the lemon juice and cream. Process until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Place the mixture in a serving dish.
- Refrigerate overnight.
Variations
- For a different flavor profile, try adding herbs such as dill or chives to the pate. You can also experiment with different types of smoked fish, such as salmon or trout, for a unique twist on this classic dish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
When making smoked eel pate, it is important to use high-quality smoked eel for the best flavor. Make sure to remove the skin and bones from the eel before processing it in a food processor or blender. Refrigerating the pate overnight will allow the flavors to meld together and develop a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the smoked eel pate on toasted bread or crackers, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice. It also pairs well with pickles or a side salad.
Cooking Techniques
The key to making a smooth and creamy smoked eel pate is to process the eel and other ingredients in a food processor or blender until they are well combined. Be sure to season the pate to taste with salt and pepper.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can't find smoked eel, you can substitute smoked trout or salmon for a similar flavor profile. You can also use regular cream cheese instead of packaged cream cheese.
Make Ahead Tips
Smoked eel pate can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Presentation Ideas
To make the smoked eel pate look more visually appealing, you can garnish it with fresh herbs, lemon slices, or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve it in a decorative serving dish for an elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Smoked eel pate pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer. It also goes well with a side of pickles or olives for a salty contrast to the rich flavor of the pate.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover smoked eel pate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply let the pate come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories per serving: 150
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 1g per serving
Fats
Fats: 10g per serving
Proteins
Proteins: 15g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Smoked eel is a good source of vitamins B12 and D, as well as omega-3 fatty acids.
Alergens
Allergens: Fish, dairy
Summary
Smoked eel pate is a rich and flavorful dish that is high in protein and healthy fats. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a special occasion.
Summary
Smoked eel pate is a delicious and indulgent dish that is perfect for serving at parties or as a special treat for yourself. With its rich and smoky flavor, creamy texture, and nutritious ingredients, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I hold dear to my heart. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients to create delicious dishes that were loved by all who tasted them.
One day, as I watched her prepare dinner in the kitchen, I noticed a small, worn notebook tucked away on a shelf. Curious, I asked her about it, and she smiled and handed it to me. Inside were handwritten recipes passed down from generation to generation, each one telling a story of its own.
Amongst the pages, I stumbled upon a recipe for Smoked Eel Pate. I had never heard of such a dish before, but the combination of flavors intrigued me. My grandmother explained that the recipe had been given to her by an old friend who had learned it from her grandmother many years ago.
Excited to try something new, I asked my grandmother if we could make the Smoked Eel Pate together. She agreed, and we set out to gather the ingredients we would need. We went to the market and picked out a fresh eel, herbs, spices, and other necessary items.
Back in the kitchen, my grandmother guided me through the process of preparing the eel. We smoked it over a bed of hot coals until it was tender and flavorful. Then, we mixed it with cream cheese, lemon juice, and a variety of herbs and spices. The pate was then chilled in the refrigerator until it was ready to be served.
When we finally tasted the Smoked Eel Pate, I was amazed by the depth of flavor and the richness of the dish. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew that it would become a favorite in our family for years to come.
As I grew older, I continued to make the Smoked Eel Pate for special occasions and gatherings. Each time, I would think back to that first day in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning the art of cooking and discovering new flavors together.
Now, as I sit here with my own grandchildren, sharing this recipe with them, I am reminded of the joy and connection that food can bring. The Smoked Eel Pate has become a tradition in our family, a dish that we make with love and share with those we hold dear.
I am grateful for that day in the kitchen with my grandmother, for the opportunity to learn and create something beautiful together. And as I pass this recipe down to the next generation, I know that it will continue to bring joy and memories for years to come. The Smoked Eel Pate is more than just a dish – it is a reminder of the love and heritage that we carry with us, a taste of the past that we can savor in the present.
Categories
| Dutch Recipes | Eel Recipes |