Russian Christmas celebrations are always filled with delicious homemade treats that bring families together around the table. Among these traditional dishes is the Kulebyaka Savory Salmon Pie – a flaky pastry stuffed with layers of salmon, rice, mushrooms, and fragrant herbs. This mouthwatering pie is perfect for a festive holiday meal or any special occasion where you want to impress your guests with a taste of Russian culinary heritage.
**Kulebyaka Savory Salmon Pie**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 1/2 lbs fresh salmon fillet
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package puff pastry sheets (2 sheets)
– 1 egg, lightly beaten for egg wash
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onions until translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft and any liquid released has evaporated.
3. Remove the mushroom mixture from the heat and stir in the cooked rice, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Set the filling aside to cool.
4. Cut the salmon fillet into equal pieces and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a floured surface to fit the size of your baking sheet. Transfer the pastry to the prepared baking sheet.
6. Begin assembling the Kulebyaka pie by placing half of the rice and mushroom mixture in the center of the pastry sheet, leaving a border around the edges.
7. Layer the seasoned salmon fillet pieces on top of the rice and mushroom mixture.
8. Top the salmon with the remaining rice and mushroom filling, ensuring an even distribution.
9. Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry to fit the dimensions of the filled pie. Carefully cover the pie with the second pastry sheet, sealing the edges by crimping them together.
10. Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg wash for a golden finish.
11. Using a sharp knife, make decorative slits on the top pastry sheet to allow steam to escape while baking.
12. Bake the Kulebyaka Savory Salmon Pie in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the salmon is cooked through.
13. Once baked, allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing and serving to your eager guests.
This Kulebyaka Savory Salmon Pie embodies the heart-warming flavors of Russian cuisine and is sure to become a cherished addition to your festive repertoire. Enjoy the aroma of dill and parsley mingling with the delicate taste of salmon in every bite of this flaky, savory pie. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or as the centerpiece of your holiday table for a memorable dining experience that will delight family and friends alike.
