Salmon stew refined with cream and pumpkin tears

Salmon Stew with Sour Cream and Pumpkin Tears

This salmon stew recipe, enriched with sour cream and the sweetness of pumpkin, is a true celebration of flavors and aromas, inspired by ancient traditions. Whether it’s autumn or winter, each ingredient brings the magic of the season, and every bite tells a story. I invite you to explore this captivating recipe, which not only delights the taste buds but also provides a generous dose of nutrients.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 3-4 fresh salmon heads
- 1/2 celery root
- 2 parsnips
- 2 carrots
- 2 large onions
- 2 potatoes
- 1 bell pepper
- 1/2 pumpkin
- Fresh tomatoes or tomato juice (about 400 ml)
- A bunch of fresh dill
- 100 ml sour cream
- 1 egg
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper

Ingredient Tips

- Salmon: Choose fresh salmon, preferably from sustainable sources. Heads are often underrated, but they provide a rich flavor and delicate taste, perfect for stews.
- Pumpkin: This is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, low in calories, and has a sweet taste that pairs perfectly with the other vegetables.
- Tomatoes: If you have seasonal fresh tomatoes, use them! Their flavor will enhance the stew, but store-bought tomato juice can also be a quick option.

Step-by-Step - Your Culinary Guide

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables
Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables. Let their fresh and vibrant aromas inspire you. Cut them into large pieces to maintain their texture while cooking.

Step 2: Chop the vegetables
Dice the celery, parsnips, carrots, and onions into large cubes. This will help with even cooking and add a rustic touch to your stew.

Step 3: Boil the vegetables
Bring 4 liters of water to a boil in a large pot. Once the water reaches a boil, first add the celery, parsnips, and carrots. Then add the onions. Let them boil for 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Add the pumpkin and potatoes
Now it’s time to add the diced pumpkin and potatoes. The pumpkin will bring a sweet flavor and a creamy texture. The potatoes will provide substance to the stew. Let it boil for another 10 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the salmon heads
Wash the salmon heads well and remove the gills. These are full of nutritious oils and will also enrich the stew with a deep flavor. Use scissors or a knife to prepare them.

Step 6: Cook the salmon
Add the salmon heads to the pot and let them boil for 10 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to develop, adding extra richness to your stew.

Step 7: Debone the salmon heads
After boiling, remove the salmon heads onto a plate and let them cool. With patience, debone them, ensuring no bones are left in the pot. This step can be delicate, but it’s essential for a smooth stew.

Step 8: Add the tomatoes
Once you’ve finished deboning, return the meat to the pot. Prepare the tomato juice or use store-bought juice. Add it to the pot along with salt and pepper, allowing everything to simmer on low heat for about 2 hours. This process will intensify the flavors.

Step 9: Creamy sour cream
About 10 minutes before finishing cooking, whisk an egg with the sour cream and gradually add some broth from the pot to temper the mixture. This will give a creamy texture to the stew. Stir the mixture into the pot and squeeze the juice of two lemons for a flavor contrast.

Step 10: Serve
Before serving, finely chop a bunch of fresh dill and add it to each bowl. The vibrant green color will bring an extra freshness to your stew.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the salmon stew with a slice of homemade bread or crispy croutons. A bottle of dry white wine will perfectly complement this warm dish, while a mint yogurt can add a refreshing touch on the side.

Nutritional Benefits

This salmon stew will not only satisfy your hunger but also provide numerous health benefits. Salmon is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health. Pumpkin, rich in fiber and vitamins, supports digestion and the immune system. Together, these ingredients create a nourishing and comforting meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of fish?
Absolutely! You can experiment with freshwater fish or other types of fish, but salmon brings a unique taste and texture.

Is this recipe suitable for diets?
Yes, it is a healthy and nutritious option, low in calories but rich in protein and essential nutrients.

How can I adapt the recipe for vegans?
You can replace the salmon with tofu or shiitake mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of water.

Possible Variations

Experiment with various seasonal vegetables – carrots can be swapped for beets, and pumpkin can be combined with carrots or sweet potatoes for a sweeter stew. Additionally, adding spices like turmeric or cumin can introduce an exotic note.

Salmon stew with sour cream and pumpkin is a recipe that blends tradition with innovation, and every bite is an invitation to savor life. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of cooking unfold!