If you're aiming to impress with minimal fuss, look no further than caviar blini. These little pancakes are a classy appetizer that pairs the rustic charm of buckwheat with the luxury of caviar.
Buckwheat flour gives the blini their characteristic nutty flavor and a slight chewiness that sets them apart from regular pancakes. All-purpose flour helps keep the texture light and fluffy, balancing out the density of buckwheat. A bit of baking powder ensures they rise just enough without overpowering the plate. Salt is crucial here to enhance the flavors without taking center stage.
For the wet ingredients, milk acts as the main liquid binding everything together. Eggs provide structure and richness, while unsalted butter adds flavor and a luxurious mouthfeel. Crème fraîche is the perfect creamy, tangy counterpoint to the salty pop of the premium caviar. And finally, a sprinkle of chopped chives adds a fresh and slightly oniony finish.
Caviar blini are best served as an elegant appetizer. Pair them with a crisp Champagne or a chilled glass of vodka for a classic combination. They also work beautifully as part of a brunch spread alongside smoked salmon and poached eggs.
Start by grabbing two bowls: one for dry ingredients and one for wet. In your dry bowl, mix together the buckwheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the baking powder is evenly distributed, which means no random pockets of rise in your blini.
Now, for the wet ingredients. In the second bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter. Make sure the butter isn't too hot, or you'll end up cooking the eggs right there in the bowl. Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring as you go. The goal is a smooth batter, free of lumps.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and give it a light brush with some butter for flavor. Using a tablespoon, drop small amounts of batter onto the skillet to form 2-inch pancakes. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes on each side, flipping when you see bubbles form and the edges look set.
Once they're golden brown, transfer the blini to a plate to cool slightly. This is your chance to prepare the toppings. Add a small dollop of crème fraîche onto each blini, followed by a delicate spoonful of caviar. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped chives before serving.
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