Champagne and Caviar…This Is How You Do It Right
There is nothing that screams decadence and tradition like a crisp champagne paired with an elegant spoonful of caviar draped atop a nice cracker. Whether you are entertaining at a cocktail party or enjoying a more intimate moment (upon a boat perhaps?), champagne and caviar serve to elevate the occasion. While one cannot go wrong with this classic pairing, there are a few rules to keep in mind:
Choosing Your Champagne
Choosing champagne flavors that are too fruity may overpower the salty, serene taste of caviar. Additionally, the brine of the caviar will sour the fruitiness of the champagne. Instead, save your fruity champagnes for New Year’s Eve or other celebrations and opt for a dry champagne. A French Brut is considered the driest of champagnes.
Curate Your Crackers
Both champagne and caviar are dripping with flavor…literally dripping. In order to create contrast of texture, it is wise to opt for a crisp cracker. Choosing a crispy cracker will ensure the integrity of your dish.
Assess your surroundings
Have you ever wondered why eating at a restaurant tastes better than take out? The answer is atmosphere. If you are splurging on champagne and caviar, take the time to decorate your surroundings as well. This means putting a runner on the table and creating an appropriate centerpiece that enhances the room. Also, details such as napkin rings, fine china, and glassware will boost the flavor profile significantly. Amazing food is determined by not only flavor but also the overall experience. For all our tips and tricks on setting the mood, click here.
Assemble A Charcuterie Board
It is no secret that caviar is expensive. In order to have enough caviar to tickle the palette of each guest, pick a soft cheese, like goat cheese, cream cheese or boursin, that will complement the opulent tang of the caviar. Then assemble the caviar around the cheese and lay out small spoons such as caviar spoons or teaspoons that let each guest know an appropriate amount to take.
Get Creative
Don’t like crackers? Devilled eggs with caviar is the perfect appetizer, especially for our gluten-free friends. Additionally, upscaled devilled eggs will elevate any Easter celebration. Bagels and lox topped with cream cheese and caviar will instantly whisk you away on a flavor journey to the delis of Manhattan…minus the smell of the subway. Pair the caviar with a Foie Gras or a lamb rib. Both of these meats have a high fat percentage that will be cut by the saltiness of the caviar.
Champagne and caviar are the yin and yang of a fine dining experience. One cannot go wrong with these two delicious treats. However, there is a way to definitely do it right!
