Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Blinis Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Blinis offer an elegant and sophisticated take on a classic appetizer, combining the delicate flavors of smoked salmon, light and fluffy blinis, and tangy cream cheese-an absolute treat for any occasion, from festive celebrations to intimate gatherings.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Blinis

Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Blinis are a delightful and refined canapé, perfect for entertaining. The recipe typically combines soft, warm blinis with luxurious smoked salmon, creating a perfect bite-sized balance of flavors. Topped with a dollop of creamy cheese or crème fraîche, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon, these blinis are an irresistible mix of textures and tastes, ideal for appetizers or party snacks.

Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Blinis Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Blinis, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For The Blinis

• 200g of self-raising flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• A pinch of sea salt
• 1 egg (separated into yolk and white)
• 150ml milk (or as needed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for frying)

For The Topping

• 200g smoked salmon, sliced
• 100g crème fraîche (or cream cheese)
• Fresh dill or chives for garnish
• Fresh lemon wedges, to serve
• A drizzle of olive oil (optional)

Equipment Needed

To prepare Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Blinis, you will need the following equipment:

• A mixing bowl
• A whisk or electric mixer (for beating the egg whites)
• A frying pan or skillet
• A spatula or tongs for flipping the blinis
• A spoon for dolloping crème fraîche
• A sharp knife for slicing the smoked salmon
• A plate or serving dish for plating up

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Blinis?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing these delicious bites:

1. Prepare The Blinis

   • In a bowl, whisk together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and sea salt.
   • In another bowl, whisk the egg yolk with the milk until combined. Slowly add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.
   • Beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the batter until well incorporated, ensuring the mixture remains light and fluffy.

2. Cook The Blinis

   • Heat a non-stick frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Drizzle a little olive oil to coat the bottom.
   • Using a spoon or small ladle, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the pan, creating small rounds. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until bubbles appear on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
   • Repeat with the remaining batter, adjusting the heat as necessary to prevent burning.

3. Assemble The Blinis

   • Place the blinis on a serving platter. Add a small spoonful of crème fraîche or cream cheese on each blini.
   • Top with a slice of smoked salmon, folding it neatly if necessary.
   • Garnish with fresh dill or chives, a squeeze of lemon juice, and optionally drizzle a little olive oil.

4. Serve

   • Serve immediately as an elegant canapé or appetizer for your guests.

Expert Tips

1. Batter Consistency: Ensure the batter is thick enough to hold its shape when spooned into the pan, but still light and airy. If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk.
2. Perfect Cooking: For perfectly cooked blinis, cook on a medium heat and avoid overcrowding the pan. This will ensure they turn out golden brown and fluffy.
3. Smoked Salmon Quality: Use high-quality smoked salmon, as the delicate flavor is the star of the dish. You could also experiment with different types of smoked fish, such as mackerel or trout.
4. Make Ahead: You can make the blinis ahead of time. Simply store them in an airtight container, and when ready to serve, warm them up in the oven at a low heat.
5. Dairy-Free Option: To make the recipe dairy-free, you can swap the crème fraîche for a dairy-free alternative and use olive oil in place of butter for cooking the blinis.
6. Lemon Zest: Adding a little zest from the lemon on top of the blinis can bring an extra burst of citrus flavor, balancing the richness of the smoked salmon.

Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Blinis are an exquisite and easy-to-make appetizer that never fails to impress. The light, fluffy blinis combined with the rich smoked salmon and tangy crème fraîche create a perfect bite that’s ideal for any gathering. With a few simple steps and quality ingredients, you can create a dish that is both delicious and visually stunning, sure to be the highlight of your next event.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Blinis

Jamie Oliver’s smoked salmon blinis are a delightful, elegant dish that works wonderfully for gatherings, brunches, or even as a light snack. But one of the best things about this recipe is its versatility.

By incorporating various twists and personal preferences, you can take these blinis in several different directions. Below are a few easy variations to get you experimenting in the kitchen:.

1. Herbed Cream Cheese:
   Swap out the traditional sour cream or crème fraîche with a herb-infused cream cheese. Blend some fresh dill, chives, or tarragon with cream cheese for a luscious, flavorful spread. You can also add a hint of lemon zest for an extra burst of freshness.

2. Cucumber and Dill Garnish:
   For a crisp contrast to the richness of the smoked salmon, top the blinis with thin cucumber ribbons and fresh dill. The cool, refreshing cucumber balances the smoky salmon beautifully. You can even marinate the cucumber slices in a little rice vinegar and sugar for a sweet-sour element.

3. Capers and Red Onion:
   Adding capers to the top of the blinis brings a delightful briny kick that pairs beautifully with the silky smoked salmon. Add thin slices of red onion for an extra bite and a touch of color.

4. Avocado and Lime:
   For a creamy, zesty twist, add a layer of mashed avocado to your blinis before topping with smoked salmon. Drizzle with a squeeze of lime juice and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper for a California-inspired version of this classic dish.

5. Beetroot and Goat Cheese:
   For a more robust, earthy flavor, top your blinis with a slice of pickled or roasted beetroot and a dollop of tangy goat cheese. This combination offers a stunning contrast in color and flavor to the smoked salmon.

6. Sautéed Mushrooms:
   For a savory, umami-packed variation, lightly sauté some mushrooms with garlic, thyme, and butter and pile them onto the blinis before layering the smoked salmon on top. The mushrooms add depth to the dish, making it heartier without overwhelming the delicate flavor of the salmon.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers from a delicious plate of smoked salmon blinis is a straightforward task, but to preserve their quality and freshness, some key practices should be followed.

1. Separate Components:
   It’s best to store the smoked salmon, blinis, and any toppings separately. This helps maintain the texture of the blinis and prevents the salmon from becoming soggy or overly salty from contact with moist toppings. Store the salmon in an airtight container in the fridge and the blinis in a separate container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

2. Refrigerate Promptly:
   As with any seafood dish, smoked salmon should be refrigerated as soon as possible after eating. Keeping it in an airtight container ensures the smoky flavor is preserved without the risk of contamination.

3. Reheat Carefully:
   If you need to reheat the blinis, do so in a gentle manner. You can reheat them in a dry skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side to retain their delicate crispness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the blinis rubbery. Smoked salmon should not be reheated, so it’s best to add fresh salmon after reheating the blinis.

4. Shelf Life:
   Smoked salmon can typically last 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Blinis can stay fresh for up to 3 days if stored properly. However, it’s best to consume them within 24 hours for optimal flavor and texture.

5. Freezing:
   Freezing blinis can be an option if you want to store them for a longer period. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring them into a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to a month. When you’re ready to use them, reheat from frozen in a dry skillet for a fresh-tasting treat.

What Goes Well With Smoked Salmon Blinis?

Smoked salmon blinis are versatile and can be paired with a wide array of accompaniments to enhance their flavor and elevate your dining experience. Here are some suggestions for what goes well with this delectable dish:

1. Champagne or Sparkling Wine:
   The effervescence of a glass of champagne or a light, crisp sparkling wine beautifully complements the richness of the smoked salmon. The acidity helps cut through the fat, making each bite feel lighter and more refreshing.

2. Crisp White Wines:
   If champagne isn’t your style, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Chardonnay also pairs wonderfully with smoked salmon. Their crisp, citrusy notes offer a balanced contrast to the savory salmon.

3. Fresh Salad Greens:
   A simple salad of mixed greens, arugula, or spinach dressed in a light vinaigrette provides a fresh and tangy counterpoint to the richness of the blinis. Adding avocado slices or roasted nuts like pine nuts can introduce additional flavors and textures.

4. Lemon and Dill:
   A light squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh dill can do wonders to brighten up the dish. The citrus acidity works with the salmon’s smoky flavor, while dill enhances its natural taste.

5. Pickled Vegetables:
   Pickled onions, gherkins, or even pickled carrots can add a nice tang and crunch to the dish. The acidity and sharpness of the pickles balance the fatty richness of the salmon, giving a more complex flavor profile.

6. Soft Boiled Eggs:
   For a more substantial meal, add a soft-boiled egg with a runny yolk on top of the blinis. The creaminess of the egg enhances the smoked salmon without overwhelming it.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s smoked salmon blinis are a delightful and versatile dish that can be customized with various toppings and flavor combinations. Whether you opt for a classic approach with sour cream and dill or experiment with vibrant flavors like avocado and beetroot, these little bite-sized treats can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

By storing leftovers properly and being mindful of what accompanies them, you can enjoy the dish for days to come. Pairing the blinis with a refreshing drink or complementary sides will elevate the entire experience, making it perfect for brunches, parties, or any gathering where you want to impress.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Blinis?

The core ingredients typically include smoked salmon, blinis (small Russian-style pancakes), crème fraîche or sour cream, lemon, fresh dill, and sometimes horseradish or chives. Jamie may also suggest optional garnishes like caviar or microgreens.

How Do I Make Blinis From Scratch According To Jamie Oliver?

Jamie’s method for homemade blinis involves combining flour (usually buckwheat and plain), milk, egg yolk, and yeast to form a batter. After resting, whisked egg white is folded in to make them fluffy. They are then cooked in small rounds on a non-stick pan until golden.

Can I Use Store-bought Blinis For This Recipe?

Yes, Jamie often recommends using good-quality store-bought blinis for convenience, especially for party platters. Simply warm them briefly before adding toppings to refresh their texture.

What Kind Of Smoked Salmon Works Best For This Recipe?

Jamie typically uses cold-smoked salmon for its silky texture and delicate flavor. Wild-caught or organic varieties are preferred for superior taste, though any thinly sliced smoked salmon will work.

What’s The Best Way To Assemble Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Blinis?

Start by spreading a dollop of crème fraîche on each blini, then top with a curl or small strip of smoked salmon. Finish with a squeeze of lemon, a few dill fronds, freshly ground black pepper, and optional extras like horseradish or caviar.

Are There Any Vegetarian Alternatives To Smoked Salmon In This Recipe?

Yes, Jamie sometimes suggests beetroot-cured alternatives or marinated carrot ‘lox’ for a vegetarian twist, paired with the same creamy base and herbs for a similar flavor profile.

Can I Make These Blinis Ahead Of Time?

The blinis can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container. Assemble with toppings just before serving to keep them fresh and avoid sogginess.

What Drink Pairs Well With Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Blinis?

These make a perfect canapé with champagne, Prosecco, or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with a citrus twist.

How Should I Store Leftover Blinis With Toppings?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and eaten within 1-2 days. However, they’re best fresh, as the crème fraîche can make the blinis soggy over time.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Blinis Recipe Suitable For Gluten-free Diets?

The traditional blini batter contains wheat flour, but Jamie sometimes recommends using gluten-free flour blends or ready-made gluten-free blinis for guests with dietary restrictions.