Tips to Prepare the Best Salmon Tartare Recipe
Do you dream of seeing your guests’ eyes light up at the sight of a plate as artistic as it is appetizing?
Salmon tartare is the ultimate star dish that always creates a “wow” factor, and it does not require hours of preparation nor advanced culinary skills.
Today, our chefs are giving you their best tips for preparing a salmon tartare recipe that will wow your guests.
The Importance of Fresh Salmon
When it comes to preparing a salmon tartare recipe, one principle prevails over all others: the freshness of the ingredients.
Since tartare is eaten raw, the quality and freshness of the salmon are paramount to ensure not only food safety, but also an exceptional tasting experience.
So, it is crucial to choose your salmon with impeccable freshness in mind. The best approach is to talk directly to your fishmonger, ask if the available salmon is fresh daily and appropriate for tartare.
If the salmon is not fresh enough that day, a good fishmonger will be able to point you in the direction of other equally tasty fish suitable for tartare, such as trout.
A Sharp Knife: The Essential Part of Any Tartare Dish
The success of a salmon tartare lies not only in the quality of its ingredients, but also in the precision of its preparation. One important aspect is the equipment used, especially the knife.
For perfect salmon cubes, you need a good, sharp chef’s knife. A sharp knife will enable you to slice the salmon properly and avoid tearing its delicate flesh. This step is crucial to preserve the desired texture and appearance of the tartare.
ZIBO! Tip
Before you start cutting the salmon, put it in the freezer for 30 to 45 minutes. The goal is not to freeze the fish, but to firm it up slightly to enable a clean, precise cut.
A Customized Tartare to Please Everyone’s Tastes
The great aspect of preparing salmon tartare is its customization, especially when it comes to seasoning. Here, the balance of flavors is paramount, since some people like it spicier and others more lemon-flavored.
The advantage of preparing your tartare at home is the freedom to season it exactly to your liking. Do not hesitate to taste your mixture and adjust the quantities of spices, salt or acids, such as lemon juice or vinegar.
ZIBO! Tip
Mirin, with its soft, sweet fragrance, and rice vinegar, both offer interesting alternatives by adding a unique touch to your tartare. By playing with these different condiments, you can create a dish that perfectly reflects your taste and that of your guests.
Complement your Tartare to Enhance the Experience
Choosing the right sides for your salmon tartare should not be left to chance. After all, they are useful to complement the taste and enhance the texture of your dish!
For a pleasant contrast on the palate, serve it with lightly salted French fries. Or prepare a crunchy salad with seasonal vegetables for added freshness (and let’s not forget the croutons, of course!).
As for food and wine pairings, a dry, fruity white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chablis, will work wonders with the tartare’s freshness.
A Word Regarding Presentation
Presentation is just as important as preparation. To mold your tartare, you can use a cookie cutter. Why a cookie cutter? Because it will help you make uniform, and aesthetically pleasing portions.
Using fresh herbs, edible flowers, or just a dash of sauce can transform your dish into a Pinterest-worthy work of culinary art.
Let your imagination and creativity run wild so that your guest will admire the visual appearance of your dish as much as its flavor.
How to Prepare a Salmon Tartare Recipe: The Easy Way
- Cut the salmon into uniform cubes, ideally 1 cm, for a pleasant texture and appearance.
- Gently stir in the remaining ingredients, making sure not to crush the diced salmon.
- Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking.
- Take your cookie cutter, fill it with the tartare mixture and carefully unmold the mixture on the plate.
- Then, place your garnishes on top and serve immediately.
ZIBO! Tip
When it comes to mixing your salmon tartare, a delicate touch is the key to preserve the texture of the fish. Since the tartare’s freshness is paramount, we recommend preparing the dish right before serving.
However, to optimize your time and reduce stress in the kitchen, prepare all other components of your tartare in advance, such as chopped capers, finely chopped shallots and any other toppings or garnishes.
For the Love of a Great Salmon Tartare
Affordable, fresh and undeniably chic, salmon tartare is the perfect recipe for those looking to combine simplicity and classiness on their plates.
At ZIBO! this dish is one of our most popular on the menu. Book your table and come enjoy the restaurant experience!
Carlos Rocha
Corporate Chef
