Wild Salmon Rillettes

Wild Salmon Rillettes Recipe from England | Ingredients: salmon, smoked salmon, lemon, dill, chives, and cucumber

Region / culture: England | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 7 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Wild Salmon Rillettes is a delicious and elegant spread made with fresh wild salmon, smoked salmon, butter, and herbs. This recipe is perfect for serving as an appetizer at a dinner party or as a light lunch option.

History

Rillettes originated in France as a method of preserving meat by slow-cooking it in fat. Over time, the recipe evolved to include a variety of ingredients, including fish. Wild Salmon Rillettes is a modern twist on this classic French dish, combining the rich flavors of wild salmon with the smokiness of smoked salmon.

Ingredients

0.25 lb (113 g) skinless wild salmon fillet
0.5 cup water
4 tbsp softened butter
3 oz (85 g) smoked salmon
0.5 tsp finely grated lemon peel
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp minced fresh dill
1 tbsp snipped fresh chives
0.13 tsp freshly ground pepper
24 slices seedless cucumber, 0.25 inch thick

How to prepare

In a small saucepan, combine the wild salmon and water; bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the salmon is opaque throughout, about 7 minutes.
Transfer to a plate and let it stand until cool.
In a food processor, combine the butter and smoked salmon; process until smooth.
Flake the wild salmon in a large bowl.
Add the smoked salmon mixture, lemon peel, lemon juice, dill, chives, and pepper.
Stir well to combine.
Spoon the mixture into a small bowl or two small ramekins.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Remove the rillettes from the refrigerator 1 hour before serving to soften.
Serve the spread with cucumber slices.

Variations

Substitute smoked trout or mackerel for the smoked salmon.
Add capers or chopped pickles for extra flavor.
Mix in a dollop of crème fraîche for a creamier texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh wild salmon for the best flavor and texture.

- Simmering the salmon in water helps to keep it moist and tender.

- Let the rillettes chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Serve the rillettes with thinly sliced cucumber for a refreshing contrast to the rich spread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Wild Salmon Rillettes as an appetizer with crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks. They also make a great topping for salads or sandwiches.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor to easily blend the smoked salmon and butter together.

- Flaking the cooked wild salmon by hand gives the rillettes a chunkier texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use regular salmon fillet instead of wild salmon.

- Replace the fresh herbs with dried herbs if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

Wild Salmon Rillettes can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let them come to room temperature before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the rillettes in small ramekins or spread on a platter with cucumber slices arranged around the edges. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Wild Salmon Rillettes with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. They also go well with a light beer or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover rillettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Wild Salmon Rillettes contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Wild Salmon Rillettes contains approximately 1 gram of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Wild Salmon Rillettes contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Wild Salmon Rillettes contains approximately 7 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Wild Salmon Rillettes are a good source of vitamin D, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Alergens

Wild Salmon Rillettes contain fish and dairy (butter) allergens.

Summary

Wild Salmon Rillettes are a nutritious and flavorful spread that is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. They are low in carbohydrates and calories, making them a healthy option for a light meal or snack.

Summary

Wild Salmon Rillettes are a delicious and elegant spread that is perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a light meal. With a rich and creamy texture, these rillettes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a warm summer day and I was strolling through the bustling farmer's market in town, browsing through the fresh produce and chatting with the local vendors. As I passed by a seafood stand, a friendly fishmonger caught my eye and beckoned me over.

"Would you like to try some fresh wild salmon rillettes?" he asked, holding out a small spoonful of the creamy pink spread. I had never heard of rillettes before, but I was always eager to try new things, especially when it came to food.

I tentatively took a bite and was immediately blown away by the rich, buttery flavor of the salmon, mixed with a hint of tangy lemon and fragrant herbs. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

The fishmonger saw the look of delight on my face and chuckled. "You like it, huh? It's an old family recipe, passed down through generations. Would you like me to share it with you?"

I eagerly accepted his offer, and he proceeded to tell me the ingredients and steps required to make the perfect wild salmon rillettes. I jotted down notes on a scrap of paper, thanking him profusely for his generosity.

As soon as I got home, I set to work in my kitchen, gathering the freshest wild salmon I could find, along with the other ingredients needed to recreate the delicious spread. I followed the fishmonger's instructions carefully, mixing the flaked salmon with cream cheese, lemon juice, dill, and a touch of garlic until it reached the perfect creamy consistency.

After chilling the rillettes in the refrigerator for a few hours, I couldn't wait any longer to taste the final product. I spread a generous spoonful onto a crispy slice of baguette and took a bite, savoring the flavors that danced on my tongue.

It was even better than I remembered, and I couldn't believe that I had made something so delicious on my very first try. I shared the rillettes with my family and friends, who all raved about how amazing it was, asking for the recipe so they could make it themselves.

From that day on, wild salmon rillettes became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I would often whip up a batch to serve at dinner parties or bring to potlucks, always receiving compliments and requests for the recipe.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks and adjustments to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I have experimented with different herbs and spices, sometimes substituting smoked salmon for a more intense flavor or adding a splash of white wine for a touch of acidity.

Every time I make wild salmon rillettes, I am transported back to that warm summer day at the farmer's market, where I first discovered this delectable dish. I am grateful to the kind fishmonger who shared his family recipe with me, allowing me to continue the tradition and pass it down to future generations.

Now, whenever I make wild salmon rillettes, I am reminded of the joy and excitement that comes with trying new things and the satisfaction of sharing delicious food with loved ones. It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, and one that I will continue to cherish and enjoy for years to come.