Serves 6
143 min
Salmon Rillettes
Recipe GLPR07d626fff5b9e7
A luxurious Nordic-inspired spread made from poached fresh salmon blended with butter, smoked salmon, and bright lemon juice, finished with chives and a whisper of spice. This elegant rillettes is perfect served chilled on crackers, bread, or as an appetizer.
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Ingredients
8 ounces fresh salmon fillet (preferably wild), skin on, pin bones removed
Salt to taste
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon olive oil
1½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
4 ounces smoked salmon, cut into ½-inch pieces
¼ teaspoon chili powder, smoked paprika, or white pepper
Directions
Lightly season the fresh salmon fillet on both sides with a pinch of salt. Place it in a steamer basket above simmering water and steam for approximately 8 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily when tested with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
In a medium bowl, vigorously mash together the softened butter and olive oil with a fork until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform. This step is crucial—break down any remaining butter chunks to ensure a creamy, consistent texture in the final spread.
Fold the fresh lemon juice into the butter mixture, stirring gently to combine. Add the chopped chives and the smoked salmon pieces, mixing until evenly distributed throughout.
Once the cooled salmon fillet is cool enough to handle, gently remove and discard the skin. Carefully flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces over the rillettes mixture. Gently fold the salmon flakes into the spread, preserving some texture, along with the chili powder or paprika. Taste and adjust salt as desired.
Transfer the rillettes to a serving dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the spread to firm up. Before serving, let the rillettes rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to achieve the ideal spreading consistency. Serve with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables.
