Tag: British starter recipe

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Quail Egg & Smoked Salmon Blinis with Lemon-Dill Crème Fraîche

Experience a bite-sized taste of elegance with our Quail Egg & Smoked Salmon Blinis with Lemon-Dill Crème Fraîche — by Nicol Retailer Limited.

There are appetisers — and then there are showstoppers.

These Quail Egg & Smoked Salmon Blinis with Lemon-Dill Crème Fraîche are the kind of canapés that make people pause mid-conversation. Elegant, bite-sized, and bursting with delicate flavour, they bring together three things that define luxury entertaining: simplicity, sophistication, and quality ingredients.

Each blini is a masterpiece of balance — soft, buttery pancake base; silky smoked salmon; zesty, herby crème fraîche; and the pièce de résistance — a perfectly cooked Caillor Quail Egg. It adds richness and visual appeal.


It’s the perfect recipe for special occasions, dinner parties, weddings, or festive spreads. In these events, presentation matters as much as taste. And thanks to Caillor Cooked & Peeled Quail Eggs (1×48) from Nicol Retailer Limited, these luxurious canapés are as effortless to prepare as they are beautiful to serve.

The Secret to Perfect Quail Egg Canapés

If you’ve ever tried working with quail eggs, you’ll know they can be tricky. Their delicate shells and petite size make them easy to overcook or difficult to peel. This is why professional chefs and caterers trust Caillor Cooked & Peeled Quail Eggs.

These eggs are precooked to perfection and carefully peeled, preserving their shape, texture, and soft, creamy yolk. They’re ready to use straight from the pack. This makes them perfect for restaurants, catering services, or home cooks who value efficiency without compromising quality. Pairing them with smoked salmon and a fresh lemon-dill dressing gives this dish a beautifully balanced profile:

  • The smoky, salty salmon enhances the quail egg’s richness.
  • The zesty lemon and fragrant dill cut through the creaminess for freshness.
  • And the soft blini base ties everything together into one harmonious bite.

Recipe

Elegant, delicious, and effortless — these Quail Egg & Smoked Salmon Blinis with Lemon-Dill Crème Fraîche are the perfect bite-sized appetisers for any occasion. Made using premium Caillor Cooked & Peeled Quail Eggs (1×48)
from Nicol Retailer Limited, each blini combines silky smoked salmon, zesty crème fraîche, and the rich creaminess of quail eggs. This creates a luxurious, flavour-packed experience.

Serve them as canapés, brunch bites, or elegant party starters — they’re guaranteed to impress every guest. Her e is the recipe:

Quail Egg & Smoked Salmon Blinis with Lemon-Dill Crème Fraîche

Print Recipe
Delight your guests with these elegant Quail Egg & Smoked Salmon Blinis, featuring perfectly sized Caillor Cooked & Peeled Quail Eggs from Nicol Retailer Limited. Each bite combines creamy lemon-dill crème fraîche, silky smoked salmon, and tender quail eggs for a luxurious appetiser that’s perfect for parties, brunches, or festive gatherings. Easy to assemble and full of gourmet flair, this canapé brings sophistication to any occasion
Course Appetizer, brunch, Canape, party food, Starter
Cuisine English, European, french, Scandinavian-inspired
Diet Low Calorie
Keyword Caillor quail eggs, lemon dill crème fraîche, Nicol Retailer Limited, quail egg blinis, smoked salmon canapé
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Servings 12 People
Calories 90

Ingredients

Instructions

Make the Lemon-Dill Crème Fraîche

  • In a small bowl, mix the crème fraîche, lemon juice, dill, lemon zest, and a pinch of black pepper. Chill until ready to serve.

Assemble the Blinis

  • Lay the blinis on a platter. Add a small dollop of the crème fraîche mixture to each one, followed by a delicate ribbon of smoked salmon.

Add the Quail Eggs

  • Top each blini with a Caillor Cooked & Peeled Quail Egg — each perfectly bite-sized at 3 cm long and 2.7 cm wide, ideal for elegant canapés. Slice a few in half for visual appeal.

Garnish and Serve

  • Sprinkle with chopped dill and a touch of lemon zest. Add horseradish cream or a tiny spoon of caviar for a gourmet finish. Serve immediately.

Notes

This Quail Egg & Smoked Salmon Blini recipe is a perfect balance of luxury and simplicity — elegant enough for a dinner party, yet quick and easy for casual gatherings. Each canapé showcases premium Caillor Cooked & Peeled Quail Eggs from Nicol Retailer Limited, paired with smooth lemon-dill crème fraîche and rich smoked salmon for a truly gourmet bite.
For the best results, assemble just before serving to maintain the blinis’ light texture and prevent sogginess. If you’re hosting, you can prep the crème fraîche mixture and smoked salmon ribbons up to 6 hours ahead, then chill until needed.
 Chef’s Tip: For extra indulgence, top each canapé with a small spoonful of caviar, a touch of horseradish cream, or a few pearls of salmon roe. Add microgreens or edible flowers for a professional finish that photographs beautifully.
This recipe is ideal for holiday entertaining, brunch buffets, wedding receptions, and corporate events, adding a refined touch to any occasion.

Nutrition

Serving: 35g | Calories: 90kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 160mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 0.5g

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These Quail Egg & Smoked Salmon Blinis are a celebration of flavour, texture, and visual beauty — soft, buttery blinis topped with zesty lemon-dill crème fraîche, silky smoked salmon, and the rich creaminess of quail eggs. Their delicate balance makes them perfect for a wide range of occasions, from intimate brunches to lavish celebrations.

Here’s how to make the most of these bite-sized showstoppers:

Elegant Canapés for Entertaining

Perfect for dinner parties, cocktail evenings, or wedding receptions — these blinis bring a touch of fine dining to any gathering. Arrange them on a slate board or marble platter, and garnish with micro herbs, lemon zest, or edible flowers for a stunning presentation.

Luxurious Weekend Brunch

Elevate your brunch spread by serving these blinis alongside avocado toast, smoked trout pâté, and freshly squeezed orange juice. Their creamy, smoky richness complements lighter dishes perfectly. Add a pot of Earl Grey tea or a mimosa for the ultimate relaxed weekend indulgence.

Picnic Perfection or Garden Party Favourite

These canapés travel beautifully and can be served cold, making them ideal for picnics, outdoor events, or afternoon teas. Pack them in a chilled box, then garnish just before serving for that freshly prepared look.

Pair them with sparkling elderflower tonic or lemon-infused sparkling water for a refreshing outdoor treat.

Charcuterie & Grazing Board Delight

Add these blinis to your charcuterie or grazing board for an elevated twist. Surround them with cheeses, olives, roasted nuts, marinated artichokes, and cured meats for a vibrant mix of textures and flavours. They work particularly well with mild cheeses like Brie or creamy goat’s cheese.

Festive Feasts & Holiday Starters

Looking for a luxurious appetiser for Christmas, Easter, or New Year’s Eve? These blinis shine on any festive table. The quail eggs add elegance, while the smoked salmon brings indulgence — making them a natural pairing for celebratory meals. Serve as a starter before roast lamb, beef Wellington, or vegetarian tarts for a beautifully balanced menu.

Fine Dining & Formal Events

If you’re hosting a formal event or catering for clients, presentation is everything. Stack the blinis slightly overlapping on white porcelain platters or slate trays, garnish with dill fronds, caviar pearls, or edible gold leaf. For a creative twist, top each quail egg with a tiny spoon of trout roe or lemon caviar for extra texture.

Light Lunch or Afternoon Tea

For a lighter option, serve your blinis alongside seasonal salads, grilled asparagus, or cold seafood platters. Their delicate flavour pairs wonderfully with crisp greens, pickled vegetables, or creamy potato salads. They also make a sophisticated addition to afternoon tea platters — perfectly portioned and visually stunning.

Conclusion

Every bite of these Quail Egg & Smoked Salmon Blinis with Lemon-Dill Crème Fraîche captures the essence of elegant dining — delicate, luxurious, and unforgettable. The rich creaminess of the Caillor Quail Eggs, the silky texture of smoked salmon, and the bright freshness of lemon and dill come together in perfect harmony. They create a dish that feels indulgent yet effortless.

Whether served at a celebration, brunch, or intimate dinner, these blinis prove that beautiful food doesn’t have to be complicated — it just starts with the right ingredients.

Crafted using Caillor Cooked & Peeled Quail Eggs (1×48) from Nicol Retailer Limited, this recipe combines restaurant-quality flavour with the convenience modern cooks love. Because at Nicol Retailer Limited, we believe every meal — no matter how small — deserves premium ingredients, care, and a touch of artistry.

Serve. Savour. Celebrate. Bring gourmet simplicity to your table today — shop the full range of luxury ingredients at Nicol Retailer Limited
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Smoked Gammon Hock & Parsley Terrine

A classic British favourite, the Smoked Gammon Hock & Parsley Terrine, reinvented by Nicol Retailer Limited

There’s something special about classic British dishes — those that carry both flavour and tradition in every bite. The Smoked Gammon Hock & Parsley Terrine is one such masterpiece. It’s rustic yet refined, simple yet show-stopping.

This terrine combines tender, slow-cooked smoked gammon with fresh parsley and aromatic herbs. It is set in a light, savoury jelly that perfectly balances richness and freshness. The result? A dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make at home.

Made with premium smoked gammon hock from Nicol Retailer Limited, every slice tells a story of quality, craftsmanship, and flavour.

Traditionally served at family gatherings and festive tables, this recipe brings that same charm to modern dining. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a dinner party, or simply want to impress your guests, the terrine delivers elegance and comfort in one slice. When you use Smoked Gammon Hock (1 kg) from Nicol Retailer Limited, you’re starting with premium-quality meat. It is expertly smoked for depth of flavour and perfectly cured. It’s ideal for slow cooking or terrine preparation.

Why Smoked Gammon Hock Works Perfectly

The gammon hock, also known as the pork knuckle, is one of the most flavourful cuts of the pig. When smoked, it develops a rich, deep taste that gives this terrine its signature character. The slow simmering process breaks down connective tissue and infuses the meat with natural savouriness. It keeps it juicy and tender.

Using a smoked hock means you don’t need to add extra salt or heavy seasonings. The meat itself brings complexity, enhanced by fresh herbs like parsley and chives. Combined with a gentle jelly set using stock from the same hock, it creates a terrine that’s full-bodied, balanced, and authentic.

It’s economical, too — one hock goes a long way, yielding a terrine that can serve 6–8 people. This makes it a perfect make-ahead dish for entertaining.

Recipe

Get ready to impress your guests with this Smoked Gammon Hock & Parsley Terrine — a true British classic that’s rich in flavour and beautifully simple to prepare. Made with Smoked Gammon Hock (1 kg) from Nicol Retailer Limited, this elegant make-ahead dish combines tender, smoky gammon with fresh herbs and a light, savoury jelly. Perfect for entertaining, picnics, or festive gatherings, it delivers rustic charm and restaurant-quality flavour in every slice. Here is the recipe:

Smoked Gammon Hock & Parsley Terrine

Print Recipe
Indulge in this classic Smoked Gammon Hock & Parsley Terrine, a rustic British favourite bursting with flavour. Made using premium Smoked Gammon Hock (1 kg)
from Nicol Retailer Limited, this dish combines tender, slow-cooked ham with fresh herbs, mustard, and a light, savoury jelly. Perfect for picnics, festive platters, or elegant starters, it’s rich, wholesome, and beautifully balanced. Serve with toasted sourdough, cornichons, and wholegrain mustard for a truly irresistible bite.
Available from Nicol Retailer Limited — your trusted UK supplier for premium British meats and gourmet ingredients.
Course Appetizer, Cold Platter, lunch, Starter
Cuisine English, European, french
Diet Gluten Free
Keyword British starter, ham hock terrine,, Nicol Retailer Limited, parsley terrine, smoked gammon hock
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings 8 People
Calories 260

Ingredients

Instructions

Simmer the Gammon Hock

  • Place the smoked gammon hock, carrot, onion, celery, bay leaves and peppercorns in a large pan. Cover with cold water and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer for 2–2½ hours until the meat is falling off the bone.

Shred the Meat

  • Remove the hock and allow it to cool slightly. Discard the skin and bones, then shred the meat into chunky pieces. Strain and reserve 100 ml of the cooking stock.

Prepare the Gelatine

  • Soak the gelatine in cold water for 5 minutes (or follow pack instructions). Warm the reserved stock, remove from the heat, and stir in the drained gelatine until dissolved. Add the mustard, lemon juice, parsley and chives.

Assemble the Terrine

  • Line a loaf tin with clingfilm, leaving enough overhang to cover the top. Layer the shredded gammon into the tin and pour over the herby gelatine mixture. Press down gently to remove air pockets, fold over the clingfilm and chill overnight until set.

Slice & Serve

  • Turn out the terrine and slice thickly. Serve cold with toasted sourdough, cornichons, and a spoonful of mustard or chutney.

Notes

This Smoked Gammon Hock & Parsley Terrine is a timeless British classic that brings rustic charm and gourmet flair to any table. Using Smoked Gammon Hock (1 kg) from Nicol Retailer Limited, you’ll achieve tender, smoky meat with a beautifully balanced herby flavour.
For best results, cook the gammon slowly until it easily pulls from the bone — this ensures rich flavour and perfect texture. The overnight chill is essential for setting the terrine, allowing the flavours to deepen and the gelatine to firm up properly.
You can prepare this dish up to three days in advance, making it perfect for entertaining, picnics, or festive buffets. Serve straight from the fridge with pickles, mustard, or crusty bread for a traditional presentation.
Pro Tip: Use the leftover cooking stock as a flavour base for soups, sauces, or risotto — nothing goes to waste!

Nutrition

Serving: 150g | Calories: 260kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 720mg | Sugar: 0.5g

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

The beauty of this Smoked Gammon Hock & Parsley Terrine lies in its versatility. It’s rustic yet refined — equally at home on a picnic blanket, a festive buffet, or a fine dining starter menu. Every slice offers the perfect blend of smoky, herby, and savoury flavours — and when paired thoughtfully, it becomes truly unforgettable.

Here’s how to serve and elevate your terrine for any occasion :

As a Classic British Starter

Serve a generous slice of terrine on a chilled plate with toasted sourdough or crusty baguette, a spoonful of wholegrain mustard, and a few crisp cornichons on the side. The buttery bread contrasts perfectly with the smoky, savoury meat and sharp pickle. Ideal for dinner parties or festive gatherings where presentation matters.

Picnic Perfection

Pack this terrine for a countryside picnic or light alfresco lunch. Slice it thickly and pair with buttered new potatoes, pickled onions, and apple chutney for a flavour-packed cold platter. It travels beautifully and tastes even better the next day once the flavours have deepened — making it a must-have for summer outings.

Light Lunch or Brunch Idea

Turn your terrine into a light yet satisfying meal by serving it with a fresh green salad, hard-boiled eggs, and a lemon vinaigrette. Add a few slices of ripe pear or apple for sweetness — the perfect contrast to the salty, smoky meat. Balanced, refreshing, and ideal for a weekend brunch or lunch buffet.

Charcuterie-Style Sharing Board

Create an elegant charcuterie board featuring your Smoked Gammon Hock Terrine, slices of artisan cheese, crackers, and seasonal fruits like figs or grapes. Add bowls of mustard, pickled radishes, and caramelised onion chutney for that irresistible sweet-savoury contrast.

Warm & Hearty Meal Option

For a more substantial dish, serve your terrine slightly warmed alongside creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables. Drizzle lightly with warm mustard cream sauce for an indulgent twist on the traditional cold terrine. This version is perfect for winter dining — rich, comforting, and deeply satisfying.

Modern Gastro Pub Twist

Reimagine your terrine as part of a British-inspired tasting menu. Serve it on slate with pea shoots, a soft-boiled quail egg, and a drizzle of apple reduction for a restaurant-quality presentation that wows every time.

Shop the Star Ingredient

For the best flavour and texture, make this recipe using Smoked Gammon Hock (1 kg) from Nicol Retailer Limited — expertly smoked for depth of flavour and ideal for slow cooking, shredding, and terrines. Delivering quality and freshness across the UK, Nicol Retailer Limited is your trusted source for premium British meats and gourmet ingredients.

The Smoked Gammon Hock & Parsley Terrine is a true celebration of British culinary heritage. It is timeless, elegant, and full of honest flavour. Each slice tells a story of tradition and craft: tender smoked gammon, fresh herbs, and delicate jelly coming together in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of dish that feels special yet comforting. It’s ideal for family gatherings, dinner parties, or casual weekend lunches.

Made using premium Smoked Gammon Hock (1 kg) from Nicol Retailer Limited, this recipe delivers quality you can taste in every bite. Whether you’re a home cook or a professional chef, it’s proof that simple ingredients, when prepared with care, can create something truly extraordinary.

So why not bring a touch of British tradition to your table? Visit Nicol Retailer Limited to explore our full range of artisan meats, gourmet ingredients, and chef-approved produce — delivered fresh across the UK.

Because every great meal starts with quality. And at Nicol Retailer Limited, quality is our signature.