Smoked Trout Paté with Rye Crackers

This Smoked Trout Paté with Rye Crackers is a rich, creamy, and smoky appetizer, perfect for entertaining or as an elegant snack. The flaky smoked trout is blended with cream cheese, fresh dill, lemon juice, and a touch of horseradish for a balanced, flavorful spread. Served with crispy rye crackers, this dish pairs wonderfully with white wine or a crisp craft beer.

For the Smoked Trout Paté

8 oz smoked trout, flaked

½ cup cream cheese, softened

¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1 tsp lemon zest

1 tbsp horseradish (optional for extra zing)

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

For the Rye Crackers

10 rye crackers (store-bought or homemade)

1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing, if baking homemade crackers)

For Garnish

Extra fresh dill

Lemon zest

Cracked black pepper

Prepare the Smoked Trout Paté

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, zest, horseradish, and Dijon mustard.
Flake the smoked trout into the mixture, ensuring no bones remain.
Stir in the chopped dill, salt, and black pepper.
Mix well until smooth and creamy (for a finer texture, blend in a food processor).
Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Prepare the Rye Crackers (if homemade)

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brush store-bought rye crackers with a little olive oil and toast for 5 minutes to enhance crunch.
If making from scratch, bake rye flour dough in thin slices until crisp (about 12-15 minutes).

Assemble and Serve

Spoon the chilled trout paté into a serving bowl.
Garnish with extra dill, lemon zest, and cracked black pepper.
Arrange rye crackers around the dish for easy dipping.
Serve with lemon wedges for an extra citrusy kick.

Pro Tips

For a smokier flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke.
For extra texture, mix in finely chopped capers or cornichons.
Pairs beautifully with dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp pale ale.

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Smoked Trout Paté with Rye Crackers