Easy Blini with Caviar Appetizer

Blini Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Batter [01:04]

• In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of buttermilk, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1 large egg.
• In a separate bowl, combine 1 1/3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt.
• Whisk the dry ingredients into the wet ones until a smooth, clump-free batter forms.

Step 2: Cook the Blini [02:22]

• Heat a stove-top griddle over medium-low heat.
• Brush the surface with a small amount of oil.
• Drop tablespoons of the batter onto the hot griddle.
• Flip once bubbles appear on the surface and the top looks less glossy.
• Once cooked, place the blini on a wire rack to cool completely to keep them from getting soggy.

Assembling the Toppings

Step 3: Prepare the Toppings [03:45]

• Chop the capers (or dill pickles if preferred).
• Separate the whites from the yolks of the 2 hard-boiled eggs. Finely dice the egg whites and crush the yolks with a fork. Place them in separate bowls.
• Finely chop the shallots.

Step 4: Arrange the Appetizer Tray [04:59]

• Place two bowls with crushed ice on a tray, and add the black sturgeon caviar and salmon roe in their respective containers, embedding them in the ice to keep them chilled.
• Use a plastic or mother-of-pearl spoon for serving the caviar.
• Arrange bowls of creme fraiche (or sour cream), diced egg whites, crushed egg yolks, chopped shallots, and chopped capers on the tray.
• Add the blini and garnish the tray with fresh dill.

Step 5: Final Assembly [06:17]

• Spread a bit of creme fraiche on each blini, top with caviar (black sturgeon or salmon roe), and garnish with a sprig of fresh dill.