This salad is a must-have for your holiday table, especially for New Year’s celebrations. It’s not your typical “Herring under a Fur Coat” but a more refined version called “The Aristocrat’s Coat.” Anyone who’s tasted it is amazed by its fantastic flavor, and I can’t recommend this recipe enough!
In our home, this salad has become very popular, and my wife even prefers it to the traditional version. The difference lies in the unique ingredient that takes the place of herring.
To prepare “The Aristocrat’s Coat,” start by cooking two large potatoes. I always opt for roasting them in the oven rather than boiling, as it enhances the flavor. I bake them with their skins on, wrapped in foil, for the best taste.
I prefer to assemble the salad in a clear glass bowl so the layers are visible, which makes the presentation even more enticing. The first layer consists of the roasted potatoes, grated coarsely. I spread them evenly at the bottom of the bowl and add a generous layer of mayonnaise. A piping bag works best for spreading the mayonnaise evenly.
The second layer is the secret ingredient: 400 grams of smoked pink salmon. Although it’s a bit more expensive, it’s well worth it for a special occasion. I carefully remove the skin and bones from the salmon, chop it into small cubes, and layer it over the potatoes.
Next comes finely chopped green onions, which add a burst of freshness and flavor. You could use regular onions, but I find they might overpower the more delicate flavors of the dish. I add a thin coating of mayonnaise over the onions for extra creaminess.
The following layer is made with two large carrots, which I also roast in the oven for a richer flavor. After grating the carrots, I spread them evenly over the onions and top with another layer of mayonnaise.
The fifth layer consists of four hard-boiled eggs, finely grated. The eggs make the salad creamier and more filling. A light layer of mayonnaise goes on top of the eggs. If you have the time, homemade mayonnaise adds a special touch to the flavor.
Finally, the last layer is made of two roasted beets. I grate them and spread them over the eggs, finishing the salad with a final layer of mayonnaise.
Refrigerate the salad for a few hours to let the flavors meld and the layers absorb each other. When you serve “The Aristocrat’s Coat” at your celebration, it’s sure to impress not only with its taste but also with its beautiful layers.
Give this recipe a try – I’m sure it will be the highlight of your holiday spread!
