Creamy Pork Ear Delight with Horseradish and Wild Garlic

This intriguing recipe combines the distinct flavors of smoked pork ears with the creaminess of whipped cream and the sharpness of horseradish, complemented by the vibrant essence of wild garlic. The dish offers a unique blend of textures, from the crunchy rye croutons to the creamy topping, creating a delightful culinary experience. It's a quick and easy dish, perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new. The rich components are balanced by the freshness of wild garlic leaves, which also add a pop of color. The dish can be served as an appetizer or even a sophisticated snack. It carries the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals while introducing an element of surprise with its unexpected ingredients. You will enjoy crafting this dish as much as you'll love serving it to your guests. Follow these easy steps to bring an exquisite and adventurous culinary experience to your table. Here is a guide to making this creamy delight with a twist of tradition and modern gourmet flair.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 200 ml of cream
• 2 slices of rye bread
• 300 g of smoked pork ears ("Rīgas Miesnieks")
• 4 wild garlic leaves
• 50 g wild garlic leaves for decoration and flavor enhancement

Spices and Sauces:

• 1 tsp of preserved horseradish
• A pinch of salt

Preparation Time

• Total: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Whip the Cream: Pour the cream into a mixer or a bowl. Add a pinch of salt and begin to whip.
2. Incorporate Horseradish: Just before the cream starts to form soft peaks, gently fold in the horseradish for that tangy kick.
3. Preparation of Pork Ears: On a plate or a serving board, arrange the smoked pork ears in an aesthetically pleasing manner.
4. Prepare the Rye Bread: Slice the rye bread into thin pieces.
5. Toast the Bread: Lay the rye slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Lightly sprinkle with salt and toast them in a preheated oven at 200°C for 2-3 minutes until they become crisp.
6. Arrange the Dish: Place the prepared whipped cream with horseradish onto the serving board.
7. Add the Pork Ears: Surround the whipped cream with the smoked pork ears.
8. Garnish with Wild Garlic: Decorate the dish with wild garlic leaves, adding both flavor and freshness.
9. Create Garlic Powder: For extra flavor, dehydrate 50 g of additional wild garlic leaves in the oven or a dehydrator. Grind them into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
10. Sprinkle Garlic Powder: Optionally, sprinkle this garlic powder over the dish for added visual appeal and taste.
11. Let Rest: Allow the flavors to meld together for a few minutes before serving.
12. Serve and Enjoy: This dish can be plated individually or served as a shared appetizer.
13. Additional Decoration: For added aesthetic, consider using edible flowers along with the wild garlic leaves.
14. Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a light, crisp white wine to balance the rich components of the dish.
15. Enjoy Your Creation: Delight in the unique flavors and tell your guests the story behind this creative combination.

Tips

• Substitutions: If wild garlic is unavailable, consider using chives or spring onion tops as a substitute.
• Texture Balance: Ensure not to over-toast the bread—you want a gentle crunch, not a hard crack.
• Automation: Use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer for better control over the whipped cream consistency.
• Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated, but best consumed within a day due to the fresh ingredients.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
• Protein: 15 g
• Fats: 30 g
• Carbs: 25 g

Variations

• Use roasted almonds or walnuts instead of wild garlic for a nutty flavor.
• For a vegetarian version, replace the pork ears with roasted vegetables such as mushrooms or eggplant.
• Explore different bread options like sourdough or multigrain for diverse textures and flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a fresh leafy green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Add a side of pickled vegetables to complement the creamy elements of the dish.
• Pair with a glass of lightly chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling for an impeccable harmony of flavors.

Best Places

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