Jacques Pépin made this dish with Francis Lam during our recent visit to Pepin's home-studio kitchen. Listen to their conversation about the dish and check out their in-depth interview about Jacques's storied career and thoughts on current food media. Also see The Splendid Table Jacques Pépin Collection for many more recipes from Jacques.
Behind-the-scenes video from Jacques Pépin's kitchen
Ingredients
One 3/4-pound piece boneless and skinless salmon fillet
About 1 teaspoon kosher salt
About 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Buttered pumpernickel or rye bread
Garnishes (per serving)
About 1 tablespoon each: drained capers, parsley leaves, chopped red onion, chopped scallion and radishes
A dash of extra virgin olive oil
Directions
1. Cutting on a bias at about a 45-degree angle, remove thin slices, each weighing about 1 ounce, from the fillet. You should have twelve slices. Sprinkle each of six plates with some of the kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Be generous; the salmon needs to be salted to cure.
2. Arrange two slices of salmon in one layer (without overlap) on top of each seasoned plate. Sprinkle a little more salt and pepper on top, and cover the plates with plastic wrap. Set aside to cure for at least 20 minutes but as long as 1 hour.
3. At serving time, sprinkle the cured salmon slices with the garnishes. Serve with the buttered pumpernickel or rye bread.
Recipe excerpted from Jacques Pepin Celebrates. Copyright 2001 Knopf.
Each week, The Splendid Table brings you stories that expand your world view, inspire you to try something new, and show how food connects us all. We rely on your generous support. For as little as $5 a month, you can have a lasting impact on The Splendid Table. And, when you donate, you’ll join a community of like-minded individuals who love good food, good conversation, and kitchen companionship. Show your love for The Splendid Table with a gift today.
Thank you for your support.
Donate today for as little as $5.00 a month. Your gift only takes a few minutes and has a lasting impact on The Splendid Table and you'll be welcomed into The Splendid Table Co-op.