Salmon Terrine: A Culinary Delight Explained

what is salmon terrine

Salmon terrine is a dish that is sure to impress at any party or gathering. It is a show-stopping layered fish centerpiece with a creamy filling, wrapped in smoked salmon slices. The recipe typically includes cream cheese, crème fraîche, mustard, and dill, and can be served with a leafy salad, crackers, or toast. The preparation is simple, but the end result is a delicious work of food art that is sure to leave your guests breathless.

Characteristics Values
Preparation time 30 minutes
Cooking time 30-40 minutes
Difficulty level Easy
Ingredients Smoked salmon, fresh salmon, butter, Dijon mustard, tarragon, green onion, parsley, lemon juice, pepper, cream cheese, crème fraîche, dill, chives, gelatine sheets, lime juice, white wine vinegar, caster sugar, horseradish, horseradish relish, olive oil, onion, carrot, white fish, eggs, cayenne pepper, chervil, cucumber, rice vinegar, mirin
Equipment Loaf tin, cling film, mixing bowl, whisk, food processor, aluminium foil, roasting pan, small heavy pan, small bowl, small mixing bowl, palette knife, ramekins
Serving suggestions Toasted baguette slices, crackers, toast, salad, cucumber salad, horseradish cream, rye bread

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Salmon terrine ingredients

Salmon terrine is a dish that can be served as an appetizer, a salad, or a main course. It is a type of pâté or spread that is typically made with salmon, butter, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs such as tarragon, dill, or parsley. The salmon is often a combination of hot-smoked salmon and cold-smoked salmon, which gives the dish a unique flavour and texture.

  • Salmon: You will need both hot-smoked salmon and cold-smoked salmon for this dish. The hot-smoked salmon is meatier and has a chunky, pale pink colour, while the cold-smoked salmon is thinner and has a jewel-like colour. You can also use baked or poached fresh salmon fillets.
  • Dairy: Cream cheese, crème fraîche, and/or double cream are commonly used to create a creamy base for the terrine.
  • Acid: Lemon juice or lime juice adds a bright, tangy flavour to the dish.
  • Herbs: Fresh herbs such as dill, tarragon, parsley, chives, or chervil add flavour and colour to the terrine.
  • Spices: Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, or cayenne pepper can be used to add a kick to the dish.
  • Bindings: Some recipes call for eggs or gelatine sheets to help bind the ingredients together and set the terrine.
  • Vegetables: Onions, carrots, or cucumbers can be added for texture, flavour, or as a garnish.

You will also need some type of mould to shape the terrine, such as a loaf tin, small ramekins, or a terrine dish. It is recommended to line the mould with cling film or aluminium foil for easy removal and clean-up.

The ingredients for a salmon terrine can be combined in a food processor and then layered with smoked salmon slices in the mould. The terrine is then chilled for several hours or overnight before serving. Salmon terrine is typically served with toast, crackers, or a light and healthy leafy salad.

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Salmon terrine recipe

Salmon terrine is a show-stopping dish that combines salmon, butter, mustard, and fresh herbs to create a delicious and elegant starter or appetiser. It is a no-bake dish that can be made ahead of time and served with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or bread. Here is a detailed recipe for a salmon terrine that will surely impress your guests!

Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces fresh salmon fillet
  • 8 ounces smoked salmon, chopped
  • 1/3 cup chopped green onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh tarragon, or to taste
  • 7 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  • Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil and add salt. Add the fresh salmon fillet, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until just cooked through.
  • Transfer the salmon to a plate and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
  • Flake the cooked salmon into a large bowl, discarding the skin. Add the smoked salmon, green onion, parsley, and tarragon. Toss to combine.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the butter, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, and pepper until smooth.
  • Add the mayonnaise mixture to the salmon mixture and gently stir until well combined.
  • Cover the bowl and chill the salmon mixture for at least 3 hours or up to one day ahead.
  • Serve the salmon terrine with toasted baguette slices or crackers. It can be served chilled or at room temperature.

Tips and Variations:

  • For a more elegant presentation, you can shape the salmon terrine using a loaf tin lined with cling film. This will give it a neat shape.
  • If you want to add a touch of creaminess to your salmon terrine, you can include cream cheese and crème fraîche in the mixture.
  • To enhance the flavour and presentation, consider adding chopped dill, chives, or asparagus.
  • You can also create layers of salmon and the cream cheese mixture in the loaf tin, similar to a layered cake.
  • Salmon terrine is best served with a lightly dressed leafy salad, lemon wedges, or horseradish cream on the side.

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Salmon terrine cooking methods

Salmon terrine is a show-stopping dish that is perfect for a special occasion or festive feast. It is a layered fish dish that combines both hot and cold-smoked salmon with a creamy filling. The following are some methods for cooking salmon terrine:

No-Bake Method:

This method involves creating a salmon spread or pâté that can be served in a crock or bowl with toasted baguette slices or crackers. The ingredients are blended or processed and then chilled before serving. This method does not require any cooking and can be made in advance.

Layered Salmon Terrine:

This method involves lining a loaf tin with cling film and smoked salmon slices, creating a layer of the cream cheese mixture, and then topping it with another layer of salmon slices. This process is repeated to create 7 layers of cream cheese and salmon, ending with a final layer of salmon. The terrine is then chilled for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Baked Salmon Terrine:

This method involves baking the salmon terrine in a water bath (also known as a bain-marie) in the oven. The ingredients are processed and then transferred to a loaf tin lined with aluminium foil. The loaf tin is placed in a roasting pan filled with hot water and baked until the terrine is properly set. This method gives the terrine a smoother and more delicate texture.

Individual Salmon Terrines:

Instead of making one large terrine, you can create individual portions by using small ramekins. Lightly oil the ramekins and line them with smoked salmon, fill them with the salmon pâté, and then chill them before serving. This method is perfect for serving at a dinner party or as an appetiser.

Tips for Serving:

Salmon terrine can be served with a variety of accompaniments such as a leafy salad, cucumber salad, horseradish cream, toast, or crackers. It can be garnished with dill fronds or chives to add a fresh flavour and elegant presentation.

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Salmon terrine presentation

Salmon terrine is an elegant and impressive dish that is surprisingly easy to prepare. It is a show-stopping layered fish centrepiece with a creamy filling, often featuring cream cheese, and a variety of flavour combinations. The presentation of a salmon terrine is key to its appeal, so here are some tips to ensure your terrine looks as good as it tastes.

Firstly, choose the right mould. A traditional salmon terrine is set in a loaf tin, which gives it its distinctive shape. You can use a small terrine mould or individual ramekins for a more unique presentation. Line your mould with cling film, leaving enough overhang to cover the top of the terrine once it is filled.

For the outer layer of the terrine, you will need thin slices of smoked salmon. Arrange the slices in the mould, ensuring they overlap slightly and come far enough up the sides to cover the filling. You can reserve some trimmings to add to the filling. The smoked salmon provides a beautiful, jewel-toned exterior to your terrine.

The filling of a salmon terrine can be customised to your taste. A classic combination is cream cheese, crème fraîche, mustard, and dill, but you can also add other ingredients like chives, lemon juice, or hot-smoked salmon for a deeper flavour. Blend the ingredients to your desired consistency, either smooth or more textured.

Once your filling is prepared, spread it evenly into the mould, being careful not to disturb the smoked salmon layer. Tap the mould gently on the surface to expel any trapped air bubbles. Then, fold the overhanging smoked salmon slices over the top of the filling and cover with cling film.

Chill your salmon terrine for at least four hours, preferably six to eight hours, to allow it to set. When ready to serve, gently turn the terrine out onto a platter and carefully remove the cling film. Garnish with fresh dill fronds and serve with lemon wedges and toast or crackers.

Your salmon terrine will be a stunning and delicious addition to any special occasion or festive feast. Its elegant presentation will leave your guests breathless, and its rich, delectable taste will impress them even more.

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Salmon terrine accompaniments

A salmon terrine is a show-stopping dish that is perfect for a special occasion or festive feast. It is a great appetiser for a party and is sure to impress your guests with its elegant looks and rich, delectable taste.

A salmon terrine is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways and paired with various accompaniments. Here are some ideas for serving and presenting your salmon terrine:

  • Salads: A light and healthy leafy salad is a perfect side dish to serve with salmon terrine. You can make a simple cucumber salad by thinly slicing a cucumber, sprinkling it with salt, and letting it sit for 2 hours. Then, squeeze the cucumber dry, and mix it with white wine vinegar, caster sugar, and chopped dill. You can also add avocado to your salad, or try a watercress salad with blue cheese, pear, and walnuts.
  • Bread: Salmon terrine goes well with various types of bread, such as toasted baguette slices, rye bread, or soda bread. You can also serve it with crackers or melba toast.
  • Spreads: The salmon terrine filling can also be used as a spread on toast or crackers. Try it as a salmon pâté or with a dip like guacamole.
  • Garnishes: Garnish your salmon terrine with fresh herbs like dill fronds or chervil, or add a squeeze of lemon juice.
  • Sides: For a more substantial meal, serve your salmon terrine with sides such as asparagus or a beetroot salad.
  • Dressings: You can also serve your salmon terrine with a variety of dressings, such as horseradish cream, lemon wedges, or a vinaigrette made with rice vinegar and mirin.

Presentation Ideas

Salmon terrine can be presented in different ways to impress your guests:

  • Individual portions: You can make small, individual salmon terrines by using ramekins lined with smoked salmon.
  • Sliced terrine: Alternatively, you can create a large salmon terrine in a loaf tin and then slice it into portions before serving.
  • Garnished with herbs: Add a touch of colour and freshness to your dish by garnishing it with herbs such as dill or chervil.
  • Accompanied by a salad: Surround the salmon terrine with a bed of leafy greens or a cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.

With its elegant presentation and delicious flavour, salmon terrine is a versatile dish that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.

Frequently asked questions

A salmon terrine is a French dish that is made with a combination of salmon, butter, Dijon mustard, and fresh tarragon. It is typically served as an appetizer or starter and can be paired with toasted baguette slices or crackers.

A salmon terrine typically uses two types of salmon: cold-smoked salmon, which is thin and jewel-coloured, and hot-smoked salmon, which has a chunkier texture and a burnished exterior.

Other ingredients used in a salmon terrine include cream cheese, crème fraîche, lemon juice, and fresh herbs such as dill and chives.

A salmon terrine typically needs to be prepared at least 6 hours before serving to allow it to chill and set properly.

A pâté is usually made from liver and has a finer texture than a terrine. A terrine is characterised by its distinctive shape, as it is always made in a loaf tin.

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