Simply Elegant Salmon in Champagne Sauce With Fresh Dill |
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Prep Time: 15 Minutes Cook Time: 15 Minutes |
Ready In: 30 Minutes Servings: 6 |
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Elegant enough for company, yet quick and easy to prepare! Would be a lovely dinner for New Year's Eve, with a glass of bubbly. Adapted from Delia Smith's recipe. Ingredients:
6 middle-cut skinless salmon fillets (6-7 oz/175-200 g each) |
1 cup champagne |
1 1/2 tablespoons butter, plus a little extra for greasing |
2 medium shallots, finely chopped |
1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour |
1 cup heavy cream (double cream) |
6 teaspoons keta salmon caviar, optional to garnish |
3 sprigs fresh dill, to garnish |
salt & freshly ground black pepper |
1 fresh lemon, cut into 6 wedges |
Directions:
1. First of all, smear a little butter over the base of a large frying pan, then arrange the fillets in it.
2. Now slowly pour the Champagne over the salmon (it will foam quite a lot, but not to worry), then bring it to a simmer over a medium heat. Now spoon the Champagne over the top of the fillets before putting the lid on.
3. Gently poach the salmon, covered, for about 8-10 minutes. The tip of a knife inserted into the thickest part will show if it is cooked when you just ease the flesh back.
4. While the salmon is poaching, melt the butter in a medium saucepan and cook the shallots in it over a gentle heat for 5-6 minutes, until softened and golden but not browned.
5. When the salmon is cooked, carefully lift the fillets on to a warmed dish, cover them with foil and keep warm.
6. Next, add the flour to the buttery shallot juices, stir it in and cook for 1-2 minutes more.
7. Now gradually add the salmon poaching liquid to the pan, a little at a time, then blend in the cream, whisking until the sauce is smooth. Let it come to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, then season with salt & pepper to taste.
8. Serve the salmon fillets on warmed plates with a little of the sauce spooned over and a teaspoon of keta (optional) and a sprig of dill on top, along with fresh lemon wedges and hand the rest of the sauce round in a warmed jug.
9. Very nice accompanied with fresh, shelled peas, or a green salad with plenty of cucumber and a lemony dressing.
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