How To Make Salmon Wellington with Caviar Beurre Blanc and Braised Carrots
How To Prepare the Salmon Wellington
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. In a food processor, blend crimini mushrooms and chestnuts into a fine duxelles. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and cook the duxelles with salt until the moisture evaporates. Let it cool completely.
For the salmon, season with salt and pepper, then sear on both sides in oil until golden and crispy. Allow the salmon to cool in the refrigerator.
Lay out plastic wrap and place two spinach crepes side by side. Top with smoked lox, then spread the mushroom duxelles evenly over the lox. Place the seared salmon on top and roll everything tightly using the plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 5 minutes to set.
Next, lay the puff pastry out on a clean surface, remove the plastic wrap from the salmon log, and roll the log in the pastry. Seal the pastry edges by crimping them, trimming any excess. Brush the pastry with egg yolks and refrigerate again for a couple of minutes. Brush with egg yolk once more and season with flaky salt. Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
How To Make Double Caviar Beurre Blanc
Bring the fish stock to a boil in a saucepan over medium-high heat, reducing it by half. Add vinegar and caper brine, then continue to reduce until the liquid is halved. Strain the mixture and return it to medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a boil. Remove from heat, then whisk in cold butter until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt.
Finish the sauce by adding the caviar, salmon roe, and chopped carrot tops. Stir to combine. This sauce adds a luxurious touch to your dish, with briny caviar and delicate flavors from the fish stock.
How To Braise the Rainbow Carrots
Simmer the scrubbed baby rainbow carrots in fish stock, seasoned with salt, for about 10 minutes, or until tender. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté the carrots until they begin to caramelize, adding a rich depth of flavor and a beautiful golden color.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Salmon: If you prefer a different fish, you can substitute the salmon with halibut or a firm white fish like cod, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
- Crepes: If you’re unable to find spinach crepes, you can use regular crepes or thin layers of sautéed spinach.
- Chestnuts: Chestnuts add a subtle sweetness and richness to the duxelles, but you can substitute them with cooked hazelnuts or even a combination of breadcrumbs and walnuts.
- Smoked Lox: For an alternative, you can use smoked salmon, but it may be slightly milder in flavor.
- Caviar & Salmon Roe: If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, consider using trout roe or even a high-quality fish sauce for depth.
Tips & Suggestions
- Crispy Puff Pastry: Ensure the puff pastry is sealed tightly around the salmon to keep the filling intact and ensure a perfectly crispy crust.
- Searing the Salmon: Searing the salmon until it forms a golden crust locks in flavor and texture. Be sure not to overcook it, as it will finish cooking in the pastry.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the mushroom duxelles and caviar beurre blanc ahead of time, allowing you to streamline the cooking process on the day of serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fish for this Wellington?
Yes, you can substitute salmon with another firm fish, such as cod or halibut. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover Wellington in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to ensure the pastry stays crispy.
Can I make this recipe without the caviar?
Absolutely! The caviar is a luxurious touch, but you can still make the beurre blanc sauce without it for a delicious, rich flavor.