Caviar Service Recipe

Appetizers

1. 1

   Prepare lemon crème fraîche

   In a bowl, combine crème fraîche with the lemon juice and zest from the lemon. Finely dice the shallot and fold it into the crème fraîche along with 1 tablespoon of the chopped chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste and let rest while you prepare the other components.

2. 2

   Crisp gaufrette potatoes

   Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the gaufrette potatoes with a light drizzle of neutral oil and a pinch of salt. Arrange in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, turning once, until crisp and lightly golden. Remove and cool slightly.

3. 3

   Warm blinis

   Place blinis on a baking sheet and warm in the oven for 5 minutes, or until just warm and pliable. Keep warm until ready to plate.

4. 4

   Assemble each bite

   To each blini, place a small dollop of lemon crème fraîche. Top with a shard or small stack of crisp gaufrette potatoes. Add a generous teaspoon of Osetra caviar. If using, place a small amount of Brandied trout roe on top of the caviar. Garnish with a few finely chopped chives.

5. 5

   Finish and serve

   Arrange the assembled bites on a serving platter. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for optional brightness.