The kitchen of the Fitzpatrick Hotel, bustling with activity as Executive Chef Jim Donnie enthusiastically demonstrates the preparation of a delightful dish just in time for St. Patrick’s Day – the Dublin Prawn with Irish Smoked Salmon.
Chef Jim begins by showcasing the imported Irish smoked salmon, narrating its journey from Ireland to a New York Catskills smokehouse. Describing the intricate brining process with brown sugar, salt, spices, and Irish whiskey, he lays out neatly shingled smoked salmon on plastic for the rolling process.
Skillfully seasoning the salmon with a sprinkle of sea salt, peppercorns, and rich crème fraîche, Chef Jim introduces the star of the dish – Dublin prawns sautéed in butter, flambeed with Jameson whiskey, and infused with fresh tarragon. After chilling the prawns, he demonstrates the meticulous layering, ensuring an abundance of salmon to envelop the prawns in the roll.
As he rolls the salmon, Chef Jim emphasizes the importance of firming it up in the freezer for an hour to maintain its shape. He proudly presents a pre-made roll and proceeds to cut it into three pieces, showcasing the perfectly formed Dublin Prawn.
To complement the dish, Chef Jim prepares the famous Mary Rose sauce, mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, and a touch of Jameson whiskey. With a keen eye, he ensures the sauce achieves the desired pinkish color, adding a tantalizing flavor profile to the ensemble.
Plating the Dublin Prawn, Chef Jim adds a touch of elegance with lemon-flavored olive oil, fresh chives, and violet pearls for an extra burst of flavor. The finishing touch is a sprinkle of microgreens, creating a visually appealing and delicious traditional Dublin Prawn with Irish Smoked Salmon for the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
Chef Jim invites everyone to savor the flavors of this exquisite dish on the festive Saturday, promising a culinary experience that captures the essence of Irish cuisine and St. Patrick’s Day traditions.