Gin-cured Salmon Bites Recipe

Elevate your appetizer game with these sophisticated Gin-Cured Salmon Crostini, a dish that combines the elegance of gin-cured salmon with the rustic charm of crostini. This recipe takes the nuanced flavors of salmon, enhanced by a botanical gin cure, and pairs it with the creamy texture of cream cheese, all atop a crispy crostini base. The addition of fresh dill not only garnishes the dish but also adds a burst of freshness that complements the salmon's depth of flavor. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, a cocktail hour, or simply indulging in a gourmet snack, these crostini offer a perfect blend of texture, flavor, and sophistication.

Serves: Varies depending on the number of crostini made

Prep time: 20 Minutes (plus 24-36 hours for curing)
Total time: 24-36 Hours for curing, plus assembly time

Ingredients

• Fresh Salmon Fillet, Skin On: 500g
• Gin: 2 tbsp
• Sea Salt: 2 tbsp
• Sugar: 2 tbsp
• Crushed Juniper Berries: 1 tbsp
• Zest of 1 Lemon
• Fresh Dill for Garnish
• Crostini or Sliced Baguette, Toasted: As needed
• Cream Cheese, Softened: As needed for spreading

Method

1. In a bowl, combine the sea salt, sugar, crushed juniper berries, and lemon zest to create the curing mix.
2. Place the salmon fillet skin side down on a tray. Evenly rub the gin over the salmon's flesh, then thoroughly cover with the curing mix.
3. Cover the salmon with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 24-36 hours, allowing the curing process to infuse the salmon with complex flavors.
4. After curing, rinse the salmon under cold water to remove the cure, pat dry, and slice thinly.
5. Prepare your crostini by toasting slices of baguette until crispy and golden. Allow to cool.
6. Spread a thin layer of softened cream cheese on each crostini slice.
7. Place a slice of the gin-cured salmon on top of the cream cheese.
8. Garnish each crostini with a small sprig of fresh dill.

Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: Fusion