Gravlax Salmon: Enhance Its Flavors with Perfect Pairings

Gravlax, a Scandinavian delicacy consisting of cured salmon, is a culinary masterpiece that offers a unique taste experience. When paired with the right accompaniments, gravlax can elevate any dining experience, making it an excellent choice for special occasions or a relaxed meal. In this article, we'll explore a variety of options that complement the flavors of gravlax, including breads, condiments, toppings, sides, and beverages. Whether you're serving a formal dinner or a casual gathering, these pairings will ensure that every dish is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.

Bread Choices

When it comes to serving gravlax, traditional Scandinavian breads like rye bread or pumpernickel are an excellent choice. These darker, hearty breads perfectly complement the rich, cured salmon. For a more casual presentation, bagels can be an alternative, offering a lighter yet still satisfying pairing. Bagels, when topped with a simple condiment, can serve as an ideal vehicle for the vibrant flavors of gravlax.

Classic Condiments and Toppings

Condiments and toppings can elevate the taste of gravlax to new heights. A classic choice is mustard sauce, which includes a variety of options such as whole grain mustard or a honey-mustard blend. These add a tangy and sweet balance to the delicate salmon. For a more specific and robust pairing, Dijon mustard or a honey-mustard blend can provide the necessary tang that cuts through the richness of the salmon.

Toppings like capers and red onions add a wonderful contrast to the gravlax. Capers, with their briny taste, provide a salty, savory layer that enhances the complex flavors of the cured salmon. Thinly sliced red onions add a crisp crunch and a vegetable crunch, bringing sharpness and freshness to the dish. Fresh dill complements the flavors even further, its herbaceous notes balancing the saltiness and tanginess of the gravlax.

Refreshing Sides and Beverages

Side dishes and beverages are essential for complementing the gravlax. Pickled cucumbers like herring or gherkins can offer a refreshing, tangy counterpoint to the rich and cured salmon. Salads with a light vinaigrette can provide a palate-cleansing effect, allowing one to savor the full range of flavors. Traditional drinks such as aquavit or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc white wine are perfect for sipping alongside the gravlax, while sparkling water or lemonade can provide a refreshing alternative.

Dill Combinations

Dill, an herb that is ideal for gravlax, can be used to create a variety of dishes that complement the salmon. Here are a couple of dill-based recipes that work particularly well:

Dill Stewed Potatoes

Dill stewed potatoes are a delightful accompaniment to gravlax. This dish, especially popular in Sweden, involves simmering potatoes in a dill-infused broth, which imparts a subtle herbaceous flavor to the potatoes. This side not only complements the subtle sweetness of the gravlax but also brings a comforting, hearty element to the meal.

Dill Citrus Aioli Mustard and Sour Cream Sauce

A dill citrus aioli sauce, mixed with mustard and sour cream, offers a vibrant and tangy complement to gravlax. This combination of herbs and spices provides a fresh burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich, cured salmon. The sauce can be used to dress up both the gravlax and the accompanying bread for an elevated eating experience.

Cucumber and Red Onion Relish with Chives

For a simple yet elegant hors d'oeuvres, a cucumber and red onion relish with chives is an ideal choice. The fresh, cooling attributes of the cucumbers blend well with the sharpness of the red onions, while the chives add a delicate, grassy note. This relish, when served on pumpernickel toast, creates a delightful contrast to the gravlax, offering a variety of textures and flavors.

By combining these pairings, you'll have a full and flavorful meal that showcases the best of gravlax. Whether you're hosting a formal dinner or looking for an easy, delightful meal, these pairings are sure to enhance the flavors of your gravlax and create a delightful dining experience.