British Columbia Smoked Salmon Platter: A West Coast Delight

British Columbia (BC) smoked salmon is renowned worldwide for its exceptional quality and rich, smoky flavor. This iconic Canadian delicacy is a staple in West Coast cuisine, celebrated for its versatility and gourmet appeal. In this article, we’ll explore how to create a stunning BC smoked salmon platter that embodies the essence of coastal dining, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a special meal at home.

Understanding BC Smoked Salmon

BC smoked salmon is typically made from wild-caught Pacific salmon, such as sockeye, coho, or chinook. The fish is carefully brined, seasoned, and smoked using traditional methods, resulting in a tender texture and a distinct smoky taste that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments.

Ingredients for the Smoked Salmon Platter

For the Platter:

• 250g BC smoked salmon slices
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• Capers, for garnish
• Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish

For the Horseradish Cream:

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Toast Points:

• 1 baguette, thinly sliced
• Olive oil, for brushing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Horseradish Cream

1. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, prepared horseradish, and lemon juice.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.

2. Prepare the Toast Points

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the toast points are golden and crisp.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool.

3. Assemble the Smoked Salmon Platter

1. On a large serving platter or board, arrange the BC smoked salmon slices in a decorative fashion.
2. Surround the salmon with lemon slices, cucumber slices, and red onion slices.
3. Place small bowls of capers and sprigs of fresh dill on the platter for garnish.

4. Serve and Enjoy

To serve the BC smoked salmon platter:

1. Offer the horseradish cream alongside the smoked salmon for dipping or spreading onto toast points.
2. Encourage guests to create their own combinations of smoked salmon, vegetables, and horseradish cream on the toast points.
3. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of this West Coast-inspired dish with friends and family.

Tips for Serving BC Smoked Salmon

• Quality Matters: Choose high-quality BC smoked salmon from reputable suppliers for the best flavor and texture.
• Variety: Experiment with different types of smoked salmon, such as hot-smoked or cold-smoked varieties, to diversify your platter.
• Accompaniments: Feel free to add additional garnishes or sides, such as pickled vegetables, olives, or fresh herbs, to complement the smoked salmon.

Conclusion

A BC smoked salmon platter is not just a meal but a culinary experience that celebrates the flavors of the West Coast. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a special treat, this dish offers a taste of British Columbia’s rich seafood heritage. With its delicate smoked flavor, creamy horseradish dip, and fresh accompaniments, the BC smoked salmon platter is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy the essence of coastal dining with this delicious and elegant dish that highlights the best of BC’s culinary traditions.