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Russian Blini with Caviar

Russian Blini with Caviar

Russian Blini are thin pancakes, similar to crêpes, traditionally served with various toppings, including sour cream, butter, and caviar. They are a staple in Russian cuisine, often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions like Maslenitsa, a festival celebrating the end of winter. The combination of the delicate blini and the luxurious caviar makes this dish a popular choice for those looking to indulge in a taste of Russian culture.

Servings: Serves 4 people

Appliances/Utensils:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 cups milk, warm
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream, for serving
  • 2 ounces caviar, for serving
  • Fresh dill, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Mix the yeast with warm milk in a mixing bowl and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

  2. Whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar in a separate mixing bowl.

  3. Combine the yeast mixture with the dry ingredients and add the egg and melted butter. Use a whisk to mix until smooth.

  4. Cover the batter and let it rest at room temperature for about 1 hour, allowing it to rise slightly.

  5. Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.

  6. Pour a small amount of batter into the large frying pan, spreading it thinly to form a small pancake. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.

  7. Serve the blini warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a spoonful of caviar. Garnish with fresh dill if desired.

Tips and Suggestions:

  • For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the milk with buttermilk.
  • If you prefer a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Experiment with different toppings such as smoked salmon or crème fraîche for variety.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the blini on a platter, allowing guests to add their own toppings. Pair with a glass of chilled Champagne for an elegant touch.

Estimated Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including resting time)