The Quintessence of Salmon Tartare: A Gourmet Odyssey

For all those who enjoy a good seafood dish, salmon tartare is definitely one of the most outstanding appetizers in world cuisine. The unique texture and taste of fresh quality salmon combined with the already famous tartar sauce make for a truly gourmet experience.  

Luckily, being not only one of the best salmon recipes but also one of the most accessible to cook at home, here we will see the secrets of this dish so on those special occasions you can create a truly gourmet experience in your own home. 

The Rising Popularity of Salmon Tartare in Gourmet Cuisine 

The surge in popularity of salmon tartare within gourmet cuisine is undoubtedly a reflection of the vast possibilities that fresh salmon fish offers in the culinary environment.  

Salmon is known as one of the most delicious and refined seafoods in the world, not only for its distinctive and full-bodied flavor, but also for the soft and silky texture that few other dishes can offer. Renowned for its simplicity, yet complex taste profile, salmon tartare stands out as the best salmon recipe embraced by food enthusiasts worldwide. 

So, what is salmon tartare? It's a french dish, whose charm lies in its raw, high-quality salmon, expertly diced and seasoned to perfection. Beyond its delectable taste, given the low amount of salmon calories, this dish is a delicious and healthy alternative to the traditional steak tartare, and is perfect as an appetizer or starter. 

Tracing the Origins of Salmon Tartare 

Ultimately, a tartare is a mixture of raw meat, fish or vegetables cut into small squares and seasoned with a sauce made from a variety of fresh ingredients that bring different flavors and textures to the dish. Salmon tartare origins go back to the French Polynesian islands, where its consumption spread in France at the beginning of the 20th century. The great chef Escoffier was the one who added the tartar sauce of his invention to the raw meat and that is where the name comes from. 

The Culinary Secrets to Achieve a Perfect Salmon Tartare 

Another appeal of this seafood dish is that it's a truly easy salmon recipe, as it does not require cooking, since its foundation consists of the texture and flavor of fresh salmon fish.  To prepare good salmon tartar, it is essential to choose fresh, high quality salmon. The color of fresh salmon should be bright and uniform. It is important to avoid any that have dark spots or discoloration, as this indicates that the fish has started to decompose. The best part of the salmon for tartar is the loin, because it has less fat and virtually no bones.  

Although it is not necessary to freeze salmon to make tartar, it is recommended to freeze it for at least 24 hours before use to avoid any risk of contamination by bacteria or parasites. It is also possible to buy frozen salmon, and avoid this prior step. It is usually served with a base of avocado, red onion, cucumber, cilantro, lime juice and olive oil, all ingredients that perfectly complement the delicate and rich flavor of the fresh salmon. 

Salmon Tartare Recipe: A Delicacy of Fresh Flavors 

This dish is often served in haute cuisine restaurants but it is also customary to prepare it at home for special occasions. Therefore, let's see the traditional recipe for a homemade salmon tartare. 

Ingredients  

- 400 gr fresh salmon, skinless and boneless 

- 2 creamy avocados 

- 1 red onion 

- 2 tablespoons capers 

- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (old) 

- 1 tablespoon soy sauce 

- 1 lemon 

- Olive oil 

- Salt and pepper to taste 

- Chopped chives for garnish 

- Slices of toasted baguette or crackers, to garnish  

Instructions  

1. Cut the salmon into small cubes in a large bowl.  

2. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit and cut into small cubes. Add the avocado to the bowl with the salmon. 

3. Peel and finely chop the red onion and add to the rest of the ingredients. 

4. Stir in the capers, lightly chopped. 

5. In another bowl, mix the Dijon mustard, soy sauce, lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil. Add this mixture to the bowl with the ingredients and mix well. Season to taste with salt and pepper. 

6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to blend. You can also use a cutting ring on a duck to shape it before putting it in the refrigerator. 

7. Serve the salmon and avocado tartar on individual plates, garnished with chopped chives and accompanied with crunchy toast. 

Matching Salmon Tartare with the Right Wine 

Pairing wine with salmon involves finding a balance that enhances the dish's delicate flavors. If you are in doubt for red or white wine, consider these wine pairing suggestions to find the choice that is right for you: 

1. White Wine Pairing: Sauvignon Blanc 

The citrus notes of a Sauvignon Blanc complement the freshness of salmon tartare. Look for a Sauvignon Blanc with vibrant acidity and hints of green herbs to harmonize with the dish's herbal elements. 

2. White Wine Pairing: Chardonnay 

A lightly oaked Chardonnay can add a touch of richness to the pairing. Opt for a Chardonnay with a good balance of acidity, providing a creamy texture that complements the silky texture of the salmon. 

3. Red Wine Pairing: Pinot Noir 

If you prefer red wine, a Pinot Noir is an excellent choice. Choose a Pinot Noir with bright acidity and soft tannins, as it won't overwhelm the delicate nature of the salmon. The wine's red fruit notes can provide a lovely contrast. 

4. Red Wine Pairing: Rosé 

A dry Rosé offers a versatile middle ground. Its acidity and fruit-forward profile make it suitable for salmon tartare, especially during warmer seasons. 

5. Sparkling Wine Pairing: Brut Champagne or Prosecco 

The effervescence of a Brut Champagne or Prosecco can cut through the richness of the salmon tartare. The bubbles cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience. 

Tips for Pairing 

Personal taste plays a significant role, so feel free to experiment with different wine varieties to find your perfect pairing. Also, if the salmon tartare incorporates bolder flavors, such as spice or smokiness, you may lean towards a more robust wine. 

The Culmination: Serving and Presentation 

The culmination of a well-crafted salmon tartare lies not only in its flavors but also in its overall appearance.  

For a classic salmon tartare presentation, use a ring mold to shape the salmon tartare into a neat and compact circle on the plate. This allows for a clean, structured presentation. Alternatively, consider forming quenelles with a spoon. Gently scoop the tartare to create a smooth, elongated shape. This technique adds a dynamic and artistic french element to the plate. 

Also, ensure the salmon tartare is thoroughly chilled before serving. A cold serving temperature enhances the dish's freshness and preserves the delicate texture of the raw salmon.  Regarding garnishes, sprinkle a handful of microgreens, such as chives or arugula, over the tartare. These delicate greens not only add a burst of color but also contribute a subtle herbal note that complements the dish. You could also consider some edible flowers to introduce a hint of floral essence to the overall experience. 

This will translate the inherently gourmet nature of the salmon tartare into the visual presentation as well. Thus, the experience is complete. 

Conclusion: The Essence of Salmon Tartare 

Salmon tartare is definitely an appetizer like no other. Its essence lies in the natural  encounter between the gourmet taste experience and the simplicity –although carefully prepared– of its preparation. So, if you enjoy fine seafood dining, leverage this pairing and be sure to try this gem.