Smoked Salmon Cheesecake

Smoked Salmon Cheesecake Recipe with Parmigiano-Reggiano and Smoked Gouda

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Smoked Salmon Cheesecake is a unique and savory twist on the traditional sweet dessert cheesecake. This dish combines the creamy richness of a classic cheesecake with the smoky flavor of salmon, creating a delicious and elegant appetizer or main course.

History

The origins of Smoked Salmon Cheesecake are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been inspired by the popular combination of smoked salmon and cream cheese on bagels. This recipe takes that classic flavor pairing to the next level by incorporating it into a savory cheesecake.

Ingredients

1 cup grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese
1 cup fine dry breadcrumbs
0.5 cup melted unsalted butter
spice essence

Filling

1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup finely chopped onion
0.5 cup Brunoise red peppers
0.5 cup Brunoise yellow peppers
2 tsp minced garlic
2 lb (907 g) cream cheese, at room temperature
4 large eggs
0.5 cup heavy cream
2 tsp salt
1 tsp fresh black pepper
1 cup grated smoked gouda cheese
1 lb (454 g) smoked salmon
0.25 cup finely chopped fresh parsley leaves

Garnish

1 cup crème fraîche
1 lemon, juice of
2 tbsp chopped chives

To serve

0.25 cup Brunoise red onions
0.25 cup capers
1 hard-boiled egg, white and yolk separated and finely chopped
1 (7.00 oz (198 g)) can black caviar

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Combine the Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, and melted butter in a 10-inch spring-form pan.
Thoroughly blend the mixture and season with essence.
Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the pan.

Filling

Heat the olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat until hot.
Add the onions and peppers to the pan.
Season the mixture with essence.
Sauté the vegetables for 2 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and remove from heat, allowing it to cool completely.
Using a food processor fitted with a metal blade, add the cream cheese.
Process the cheese until smooth.
With the machine running, add the eggs one at a time.
Add the cream, salt, and black pepper.
Process the mixture until fully incorporated.
Remove the mixture from the machine and transfer it to a mixing bowl.
Fold in the vegetable mixture, gouda cheese, smoked salmon, and parsley.
Re-season the mixture if necessary.
Pour the cheese mixture into the prepared pan.
Place the pan on the middle rack in the oven.
Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the cheesecake is set in the center.
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Garnish

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the crème fraîche and lemon juice.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
Fold in the chives.

To serve

Place a small pool of the sauce in the center of each plate.
Lay one piece of the cheesecake in the center of the sauce.
Garnish each plate with red onions, capers, egg whites, egg yolks, caviar, and parsley.

Variations

Add dill or chives to the cheesecake batter for extra flavor.
Substitute different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, for a unique twist.
Top the cheesecake with additional smoked salmon or caviar for a luxurious touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Use high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor. Look for wild-caught salmon if possible.

- Don't overmix the cheesecake batter, as this can result in a dense and tough texture. Mix just until all the ingredients are combined.

- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean and neat slices.

Serving Suggestions

Smoked Salmon Cheesecake can be served as an appetizer with crackers or bread, or as a main course with a side salad.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe requires baking the cheesecake in the oven until set. Be sure to follow the instructions for the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have smoked salmon, you can use cooked salmon or another type of smoked fish. You can also substitute different types of cheese for the gouda.

Make Ahead Tips

Smoked Salmon Cheesecake can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to serve. Simply garnish with the crème fraîche and other toppings just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Smoked Salmon Cheesecake on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and additional smoked salmon slices for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Smoked Salmon Cheesecake pairs well with crisp white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. It also goes well with sparkling water or champagne.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Smoked Salmon Cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Smoked Salmon Cheesecake contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Smoked Salmon Cheesecake contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Smoked Salmon Cheesecake contains approximately 30 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Smoked Salmon Cheesecake contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Smoked Salmon Cheesecake is a good source of vitamin D, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese, cheese, butter), eggs, and fish (smoked salmon). It may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Smoked Salmon Cheesecake is a rich and indulgent dish that is high in fats and proteins. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, but may not be suitable for those with certain allergies.

Summary

Smoked Salmon Cheesecake is a delicious and elegant dish that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the smoky flavor of salmon. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a unique appetizer for a dinner party. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a unique and intriguing combination of ingredients that I had never seen before - smoked salmon and cheesecake. As an avid food enthusiast and collector of recipes, I knew I had to try it out.

I first came across the recipe for smoked salmon cheesecake during a trip to Alaska many years ago. I was visiting a friend who lived in a small fishing village, and she invited me to a community potluck dinner. As I made my rounds, sampling the various dishes that had been brought by the locals, I came across a savory cheesecake unlike anything I had ever seen before.

The hostess, a sweet elderly woman with a twinkle in her eye, noticed my interest in the dish and came over to chat. She explained that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, originating from a blend of their Alaskan and Scandinavian roots. She graciously shared the recipe with me, and I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

I returned home from my trip with the recipe in hand, eager to recreate the smoked salmon cheesecake in my own kitchen. I gathered all the necessary ingredients - cream cheese, smoked salmon, dill, and a few other key components - and got to work.

The process of making the cheesecake was a labor of love. I carefully whipped together the cream cheese, eggs, and seasonings until they formed a smooth and creamy base. I then folded in the smoked salmon, which had been finely chopped and seasoned to perfection. The aroma of the fish mingling with the fresh dill and creamy cheese was intoxicating.

As I poured the mixture into a prepared springform pan and smoothed the top, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. This dish was unlike anything I had ever made before, and I couldn't wait to see how it would turn out.

After baking the cheesecake to golden perfection, I allowed it to cool before slicing into it. The first bite was a revelation - the smoky, savory flavor of the salmon melded perfectly with the creamy cheese and herbs. It was a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, a true culinary masterpiece.

I shared the smoked salmon cheesecake with my friends and family, and it was met with rave reviews. They were amazed by the unexpected combination of ingredients and flavors, and many asked for the recipe so they could try making it themselves.

Over the years, the smoked salmon cheesecake became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would often make it for special occasions and gatherings, always receiving compliments and requests for seconds. It was a dish that never failed to impress, and I took pride in knowing that I had mastered a recipe that was truly unique and delicious.

As I look back on my journey with the smoked salmon cheesecake, I am filled with gratitude for the kind woman who shared her family recipe with me all those years ago. It has become a beloved tradition in my own family, a symbol of the joy and connection that food can bring.

I continue to experiment with new recipes and techniques, always eager to expand my culinary horizons and learn from the experiences of others. Cooking is not just a hobby for me - it is a passion, a way to express myself and share my love and creativity with those around me.

And so, I will always hold a special place in my heart for that fateful day in Alaska when I first discovered the recipe for smoked salmon cheesecake. It opened my eyes to the endless possibilities of the culinary world, and I am grateful for the memories and moments of joy that it has brought into my life.