SMOKED HERRING SPREAD WITH CAVIAR

The conventional wisdom surrounding caviar is that it’s very pricey and should be reserved for special occasions. However, jars of affordable lumpfish caviar can be found near the fish counter at most grocery stores. A small jar runs under $10, and it takes your classic schmear to a whole other level.

1 can (190 g) smoked herring (a.k.a. kippers), drained

1/4 cup (60 mL) sour cream

2 tbsp (30 mL) mayonnaise

1 tbsp (15 mL) prepared horseradish, drained 1 stalk celery, finely diced

4 green onions, white parts only, thinly sliced 1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt

1/2 tsp (2 mL) pepper

2 to 3 tbsp (30 to 45 mL) black lumpfish caviar 1 tbsp (15 mL) thinly sliced green onion, green part only

1/2 cucumber, sliced

6 radishes, halved

2 rye toasts, cut into quarters

1 In a bowl, mash together smoked herring, sour cream, mayonnaise, horseradish, celery, white parts of green onions, salt and pepper until well-combined.

2 Place in a serving bowl and smooth surface. Cover surface with thin layer of caviar. Garnish with green part of green onion.

3 Serve with cucumber, radishes and rye toasts.

Serves 4