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:
- Mix the yeast with warm milk in a mixing bowl and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
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Whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar in a separate mixing bowl.
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Combine the yeast mixture with the dry ingredients and add the egg and melted butter. Use a whisk to mix until smooth.
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Cover the batter and let it rest at room temperature for about 1 hour, allowing it to rise slightly.
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Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
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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.
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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)