Salmon Medallions with Green Peppercorn Sauce
Category: Main Course
Serves: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Dry dessert wine | to taste |
| Salmon fillet | 3800g |
| Fresh liquid cream | 250ml |
| Green peppercorns (whole) | 1 tbsp |
| Onion | ½ (finely chopped) |
| Butter | 20g |
| Fresh basil | to taste |
| Tomato puree | 250ml |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Fine salt | to taste |
| Crustaceans (e.g., shrimp shells) | 250g |
| Onion | 1 (finely chopped) |
| Carrot | 1 (peeled & chopped) |
| Celery | 1 stalk (chopped) |
| Cherry tomatoes | 100g |
| Brandy | 1 tbsp |
| Fine salt | to taste |
| Butter | 50g |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Crustacean Broth
To begin, prepare the crustacean broth. Place the shells of the crustaceans in a pan along with the butter. Sauté them, pressing gently with a spoon to release the juices. Add the brandy and let it cook off (1-2 minutes). Next, incorporate the finely chopped vegetables (onion, carrot, and celery). Allow this mixture to cook for a few more minutes.
Once the vegetables are softened, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids, retaining only the flavorful liquid.
Step 2: Reducing the Broth and Preparing the Tomato Sauce
Add the fresh cream to the strained broth and place it on low heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook until the sauce thickens and reduces to a velvety consistency (approximately 5-6 minutes).
While the broth reduces, prepare the simple tomato sauce. In a separate pan, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil, add the tomato puree, and season with a pinch of salt. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens and deepens in flavor.
Step 3: Preparing the Salmon Medallions
Cut the salmon fillets into medallions (thick slices).
While the broth and tomato sauce are reducing, finely chop the onion and sauté it in a pan with 20g of butter and 2 tbsp of olive oil over low heat until it becomes golden. Add the green peppercorns and stir to combine.
Once the onion and peppercorns are fragrant and well mixed, pour in the reduced broth and fresh cream mixture. Stir to combine and let it simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Cooking the Salmon Medallions
In a separate pan, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the salmon medallions and sear them for no more than 5 minutes on each side until golden and slightly crisp.
Once seared, reduce the heat, cover the pan with a lid, and allow the salmon to cook through for an additional 10 minutes, ensuring it remains moist.
Step 5: Serving
Once the salmon medallions are cooked through, remove them from the pan and place them on serving plates. Spoon the creamy green peppercorn sauce over the top of the medallions, ensuring they are generously covered.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately, ideally with a side of roasted vegetables or steamed rice.
This rich and flavorful dish of Salmon Medallions with Green Peppercorn Sauce is perfect for a special occasion or a delicious weeknight dinner. The combination of seared salmon, creamy broth, and the subtle kick of green peppercorns will make your taste buds dance. Enjoy this elevated recipe that blends classic flavors with a contemporary twist, making every bite an unforgettable experience!
