Toast with capelin roe and anchovies

Capelin and anchovy roe tartines: a simple yet refined recipe for an elegant appetizer

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

When it comes to appetizers, capelin and anchovy roe tartines are a fantastic choice, full of flavor and sophistication. These tartines are perfect for any occasion, whether it's an elegant dinner, a party with friends, or simply to indulge yourself on a quiet evening. And their preparation doesn't require much time or effort, making them an ideal option for those who want a quick treat.

The history of these tartines is fascinating, as the combination of roe and preserved fish has been appreciated throughout time in various culinary cultures. Capelin roe, with its slightly crunchy texture and salty taste, pairs perfectly with anchovy, adding depth and an intense umami flavor.

Let’s see together how we can prepare these delicious tartines!

Ingredients
- 1 graham bread loaf (choose varieties with smaller slices)
- 100 g red capelin roe
- 100 g black capelin roe
- 1 can of anchovies (preferably rolls with capers)
- 50 g butter, at room temperature
- 1 lemon (for juice and decoration)
- Decoration ingredients: cherry tomatoes, stuffed olives, black olives, red radishes, chili pepper, leek leaves

Preparation instructions

1. Preparing the bread slices: Start by slicing the graham bread into thin slices. If you don't have graham bread, you can use other types of bread, but make sure they have a firm texture. Place the slices in a toaster to lightly toast them until they become golden and crispy.

2. Spreading with butter: Once the slices are toasted, remove them from the toaster and let them cool slightly. Then, spread a thin layer of butter on each slice. The butter will help create a creamy base and enhance the flavors.

3. Adding the roe and anchovies: On each slice of bread, place a few roe, alternating between red and black capelin roe for an appealing visual effect. Then, add a slice of anchovy on top. You can play with the proportions, but I recommend not overdoing it with anchovy, as its flavor can become overpowering.

4. Decorating the tartines: Now comes the fun part! Decorate the tartines with halved cherry tomatoes, stuffed olives, black olives, slices of red radishes, chili pepper, or leek leaves. Each added ingredient will bring a splash of color and an extra burst of flavor.

5. Drizzling with lemon juice: Finally, squeeze a few drops of lemon juice over the tartines. The acidity of the lemon will balance the flavors and provide a pleasant contrast to the saltiness of the roe and anchovies.

Serving
These capelin and anchovy roe tartines are ideal to be served immediately, but they can also be prepared a little in advance, as long as you don’t let them sit too long, as the ingredients can oxidize. If you prepared the tartines a few hours ahead, cover them with plastic wrap to keep them fresh.

The perfect drink to accompany these tartines is undoubtedly a bottle of dry or demi-sec champagne. The fine bubbles of the champagne complement the crispy texture of the tartines and enhance the flavors.

Practical tips
- Caring for the roe jars: If you have leftover roe in a jar, make sure to seal it tightly. They can be used to quickly prepare a delicious appetizer, and their flavor will remain fresh for a few days as long as they are kept in the fridge.
- Vegetarian option: If you want to avoid fish, you can replace the anchovies with mashed avocado or an olive paste for a distinctive and delicious taste.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I replace the roe with something else? Yes, you can also use other types of roe, such as pike roe or salmon roe, depending on your preferences.
- What other ingredients can I add? You can experiment with various ingredients, such as finely chopped green onions, roasted peppers, or even capers for an extra texture and flavor.

These capelin and anchovy roe tartines are an excellent choice for any occasion, offering a perfect blend of flavors and textures. No matter when you decide to prepare them, they will help you impress your guests or treat yourself. Enjoy every bite!