Cheese and smoked salmon dumplings

Delicious Recipe for Cheese and Smoked Salmon Bites

When it comes to appetizers, nothing compares to a recipe that beautifully combines textures and flavors. These cheese and smoked salmon bites are not only a treat for the taste buds but also an excellent option for your guests. Whether you're hosting a party, a special dinner, or simply want to indulge yourself, this recipe is sure to impress!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20-30 seconds per batch
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

For the dough bites:
- 120 g flour
- 120 ml milk
- 2 eggs (separate yolks from whites)
- 5 g dry yeast
- 50 g melted butter
- a pinch of salt

For the cheese spread:
- 300 g herb cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- dried or fresh dill, chopped

For garnish:
- 100 g smoked salmon
- sprigs of dried dill (optional)

The Story Behind the Recipe

This recipe for cheese and smoked salmon bites is a modern take on classic appetizers, inspired by diverse culinary traditions. Its origins lie in the gastronomic culture of simple yet sophisticated dishes that blend rich, flavorful ingredients. With a keen eye for detail and a dash of creativity, this appetizer becomes perfect for any occasion.

Step by Step: How to Prepare the Bites

1. Preparing the dough
Start by mixing the egg yolks with the milk and melted butter until you achieve a smooth mixture. It's essential that the butter is warm but not hot to avoid cooking the eggs.

2. Adding the dry ingredients
Once you have a homogeneous mixture, add the flour, salt, and dry yeast. Continue mixing until all the ingredients are well incorporated. You should achieve a fine, elastic dough that easily pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

3. Proofing the dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise for 30 minutes in a warm place. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy and airy bites.

4. Preparing the egg whites
Meanwhile, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until you achieve stiff peaks. This will help the dough become lighter and fluffier.

5. Incorporating the egg whites
After the dough has risen, carefully fold in the beaten egg whites using a spatula with gentle, sweeping motions from top to bottom. This will help retain the air in the egg whites and achieve a perfect texture.

6. Cooking the bites
Preheat your Panini Maker and wait for it to heat up. Use a piping bag to form dough bites on the hot plate. Close the lid and cook until golden brown on both sides, which takes about 20-30 seconds. Follow this step patiently, as each batch will yield delicious bites.

Preparing the Cheese Spread

1. Mixing the ingredients
In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with the sour cream and dill (dried or fresh, if available). Stir well until it becomes a smooth and creamy paste. For a more intense flavor, you can also add a bit of crushed garlic or your favorite spices.

2. Decorating the bites
Use a star-tipped piping bag to decorate each bite with the cheese spread. This will not only add an appetizing look but also a delightful taste.

3. Adding the smoked salmon
Carefully place pieces of smoked salmon on top of each bite. The smoked salmon provides a rich, umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the cream cheese.

Serving and Presentation Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, arrange the bites on a large platter, garnished with fresh dill sprigs. This appetizer is best served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Perfectly paired with a glass of dry white wine or a fresh cocktail, your bites are sure to be the star of the evening!

Variation Suggestions

- Salmon alternatives: You can replace the smoked salmon with shrimp or canned tuna if you prefer.
- Diverse flavors: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or ricotta, for a different taste.
- Crunchy additions: Sprinkle some chopped nuts or sesame seeds for an extra texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the dough may become denser. Adjust the amount of milk if necessary.

2. What can I do with leftover dough?
You can shape smaller bites or use the dough to make little pastries with various fillings.

3. How can I store the bites?
You can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat them before serving to restore their fluffy texture.

Nutritional Benefits

These bites are an excellent source of protein thanks to the eggs and cheese, as well as omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon. Additionally, dill adds not only flavor but also valuable nutrients.

Enjoy every step of making these cheese and smoked salmon bites, turning each bite into an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, the result will definitely be worth the effort!