by HOCAFF Team | Feb 15, 2017 | General
In an anonymous comparison of Osetra vs Beluga caviar with only taste and no price points to consider, it may be difficult to pick a winner. Fortunately, there is no real need to compare since some very basic variables like availability and pricing mute the Osetra vs Beluga caviar competition for most consumers. Nevertheless, since dining on caviar can be one of the most decadent culinary experiences, it helps to identify which caviar product is most satisfying to your palate and wallet.
In the last decade or so, there has been a definite toss-up between Beluga vs Osetra for avid caviar connoisseurs and chefs alike, as to which caviar offers the best value. But whether it comes down to an Osetra vs Beluga challenge or not, sampling the taste of these and other caviar brands is the only way to definitively choose or to decide if there is even a reason to choose one over the other.
About Ossetra Caviar
Next to the Beluga and Sevruga brands, Ossetra caviar rank as one of the most exquisite caviars in the world today. The diversity of Ossetra caviar relative to the taste profile, size and color of the beads can make each dining experience unique. The variances in the flavor of Russian Ossetra caviar is often attributed to the fact that the Ossetra sturgeons adapt to irregularities in their environment that ultimately influences the taste of the eggs. In comparison to the more delicate Beluga pearls, the roe of Osetra sturgeons are smaller, firmer and can range in color from shimmering golden hues to varying shades of brown. This succulent caviar also provides consumers with a complex array of rich flavors.
Stability, in so far as growth patterns and appearance is concerned, has been part of the reason caviar harvested from Ossetra Sturgeons have retained their value. The ancient Ossetra population is classified as a prehistoric mammal that has not evolved relative to their life span, size, weight and body composition. The name Ossetra also referred to as Oscietra, Osetra and Asetra is a transcription of the Russian word “осётр” which in English translates into sturgeon. However, the name Osetra refers specifically to the Acipenser gueldenstaedtii species but is used loosely for other sturgeons such as Acipenser Baerii sturgeons or Siberian sturgeon and the Amur Osetra which are farmed in the Amur River that flows on the state border between Russia and China. Today, the Siberian Sturgeons can be found in habitats all over the world due to their ability to adapt and flourish in a range of environments.
Beluga Caviar
Authentic Beluga sturgeon caviar is famous for its history, relative obscurity and exorbitant price tag. Any Beluga caviar aficionado will however defer solely to the depth of flavor produced by the exceptionally large eggs of the Beluga Sturgeon as the reason for their celebrity status. Despite its size, the Caspian Beluga caviar pearls are described by harvesters as the most delicate of all caviars. Whatever the reason for its popularity, Beluga caviar is globally, the most expensive luxury food available today. At a starting cost of $3,500 per pound, lovers of this rare delicacy have reportedly paid as much as $34,000 for little over two pounds of caviar that is produced by the Beluga albino sturgeon.
Unfortunately, based on information from the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) approximately 90% of the Beluga Sturgeon habitat has been destroyed due to overfishing, environmental pollution generated by construction of irrigation channels, dykes and hydro-powered dams. The impact on the Beluga sturgeon population has been so extreme that various bans prohibit theimportation and sale of Beluga caviar. In fact, since 2005, caviar and other gourmet products made from the Beluga Sturgeons has been prohibited under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Scientist also estimate that even with protection laws, recovery of this specie can take over a hundred years due to their low population and slow reproduction rate .
The challenge to find alternatives to elusive Beluga caviar however, has not been unsuccessful. In fact, it has initiated significant changes in the way this valuable fish species and other sturgeon populations are raised, harvested and prepared for consumption. In addition, it has expanded the palate of many beluga caviar gourmands. Whether they have been coerced to sample other types of caviar because of budget, environmental conscience or inaccessibility, many are able to compare and enjoy without prejudice other equally delectable and less reclusive caviar brands.
You can experience the best imported and domestic caviar and gourmet foods from around the world when you visit House of Caviar and Fine Foods online store. This is a great opportunity to explore a variety of caviar and other gourmet fare. Also, follow House of Caviar and Fine Foods on Facebook for delicious recipes and more ideas on ways to incorporate these delicacies into your lifestyle.
by HOCAFF Team | Jan 23, 2017 | General
As demographics merge and desire for new taste experiences explode, it’s not surprising that the luxury food market in general and caviar in particular is trending. Along with this growing interest, there is an obvious shift in the caviar consumer base. According to annual sales and an ongoing Hackleback vs Paddlefish caviar dialogue; people are as interested today in these humble domestic varieties as the elite still are in the Beluga and Sevruga giants from the Caspian Seas. Frankly, this is not surprising since habitat loss, a decline in the most sought after sturgeon population and global bans have driven sale of these pricy fish eggs into a downward spiral.
As the caviar market continue to turn; people are experiencing the striking similarities in the appearance and flavor profiles of American Paddlefish and Hackleback caviars at extremely comfortable price points when compared to the elusive and expensive Caspian Sea Sturgeons.
And so it begins; the hackleback vs paddlefish caviar argument which is more often ignited by which caviar pairs best with the chef’s menu selections. Even so, the there are some significant differences between hackleback and paddlefish and the caviar they produce. These are primarily hinged on the variables of species, roe size, color and flavor profile.
Species of Hackleback vs Paddlefish
While Hackleback belongs to the Scaphirhynchus platorynchus sturgeon family; Paddlefish is a member of the Polyodontidae or basal Chondrostean ray-finned fish species. Although not a sturgeon, it is recognized as a cousin of the sturgeon species partly because like the ancient sturgeons, Paddlefish are also referred to as “primitive” with fossil records dating as far back as the late cretaceous period that substantiate this designation. And, while there are at least 27 Sturgeon species only six known Paddlefish genera existed of which four are already extinct.
The good news is that studies show advancements in technology relative to farming methodologies are designed to enhance rearing and propagation of these specimens. As such, these biotechnologies have already noticeably improved the reproduction capacity of both the Hackleback and Paddlefish populations as well as their survival rates.
Roe Size and Color
As the smallest of the sturgeon population, Hackleback caviar consists of small, black pearls that are often marketed as either Chattanooga Beluga, American Premium Black Caviar or simply Hackleback Caviar.
In comparison, the size of the Paddlefish produces fish eggs that are similar in appearance to Suvrega caviar pearls. They also range in color from light to a dark gray or shimmering golden brown hues.
Flavor Profile
When it comes to caviar, it all comes down to flavor. Whether you choose Hackleback caviar or Paddlefish caviar you are sure to enjoy the succulent and unique essence of either one.
American Paddlefish caviar is distinguished by a complex flavor profile that is at the same time earthy, silky and smooth with a subtle finish.
On the other hand, Hackleback caviar is often compared in flavor to the Caspian Sea Ossetra and of course; Suvrega caviar. It is known for its sweet, buttery flavor and a strong nutty finish. The shimmering beads of this caviar adds drama and decadence whether it is paired with the tartness of a crisp green apple or piled on toast points accompanied by crème fraiche.
You can experience the best imported and domestic caviar and a host of other luxury foods from around the world through House of Caviar and Fine Foods. We offer a wide variety of gourmet meats, vinegars, along with the finest Foie Gras, fresh or preserved truffles, and other specialty foods at our online store. Also, follow House of Caviar and Fine Foods on Facebook for delicious recipes and more ideas on ways to incorporate these delicacies into your lifestyle.
by HOCAFF Team | Jan 23, 2017 | General
Tips on how to serve and eat caviar, the world’s most exquisite delicacy
Introducing caviar into your lifestyle for the first time can be intimidating, but with a few tips on how to eat and serve this delectable delicacy, you’ll be dining like an experienced caviar connoisseur in no time! Caviar is one of the most highly desirable gourmet food offerings, prized by epicureans for its delightful taste and texture. While this superb taste treat was once reserved for the exclusive enjoyment of the top segments of society, the House of Caviar and Fine Foods makes it possible for individuals everywhere to incorporate caviar into their dining selections. Even if you never thought of yourself as living a caviar lifestyle, once you learn the proper way to eat caviar you will find yourself incorporating this divinely delicious food into every gathering and occasion you celebrate.
The best way to store caviar
As soon as your caviar arrives, store it in the coldest part of your refrigerator. Caviar is best when stored at a frigid 26 to 32 degrees Fahrenheit. It should never be frozen, because the expanding ice crystals can burst the fragile egg membranes, rending the succulent caviar capsules into an unappealing, mushy mass.
The proper way to serve caviar
The first step to incorporating caviar into your lifestyle is learning how to serve caviar correctly. Caviar should never be allowed to come in contact with silver or stainless steel utensils or serving dishes, as this can impart an unpleasant metallic taste. Caviar should be served chilled, in a crystal, porcelain, or glass serving bowl nestled on a cooling bed of crushed ice. A mother-of pearl spoon is the traditional choice to scoop the luscious pearls, but ones of gold or horn may also be used. As a last resort, a plastic spoon can be used, although that is considered a déclassé choice.
How to eat caviar
Caviar has always been served as the sophisticated high note at the chicest gatherings, but foodies now embrace it as the perfect food to add a touch of luxury to every occasion.True connoisseurs prefer to enjoy caviar straight from a spoon, without any other flavors to distract them from savoring caviar’s exquisite taste and texture. Many choose to serve caviar on toast points, with hard-boiled eggs, minced chives, or butter whipped with a few drops of lemon juice. Another favorite way to eat caviar is with blinis and Crème fraîche to bring out the rich notes of the pearl’s flavor.
How to get the most enjoyment from eating caviar
The recommended serving size of caviar is approximately one ounce. That translates to one or two teaspoons at the most. Caviar eggs should be gently scooped into your mouth and rolled on the tongue. Once the caviar globes are in your mouth, gently crush the pearls with your tongue to experience the delightful “pop” and burst of satisfyingly rich flavor on your palate. Savor caviar’s tantalizingly delicate taste with just a hint of salt.
Traditionalists advise that in order to glean the most enjoyment of caviar’s dynamic flavor, you should prepare your palate between tastes by imbibing a sip of crisp, ice-cold Russian vodka. Many caviar enthusiasts now choose a different route, pairing their caviar with chilled white wine or crisp champagne.
Now that you know how to eat caviar, you can easily add this gourmet delicacy into your lifestyle with a visit to our convenient House of Caviar and Fine Foods online store where you can order the freshest, best quality caviar, fish roe, foie gras, truffles, other specialty foods, gourmet accessories, and gourmet gift baskets. Also, to learn more about this decadently delicious cuisine or for gift ideas, recipes and tips on how to eat caviar take a look at House of Caviar and Fine Foods Facebook page.
by HOCAFF Team | Jan 20, 2017 | General
Get the new year started right with a special caviar sale going on now through the end of February at House of Caviar and Fine Foods. This caviar sale offers the best caviar deals on the entire gourmet food line. It is also a great opportunity to experience imported and domestic delicacies and a host of other foods from a range of product categories of high quality gourmet food online.
Since House of Caviar and fine foods are purveyors of only top quality luxury products, imagine getting as much as $25 off any purchase of $200 or more and $50 off purchases of $400 or more when you use our promo codes until the end of February. For this limited time only, find the best caviar deals and other gourmet items from the following product categories.
Imported Caviar
Now is the perfect time to plan an impromptu gathering and pamper your guest with exquisite servings of imported caviar. Take advantage of the best caviar deals that includes the Kaluga caviar selection that is always a crowd pleaser as well as our entire imported Ossetra caviar miscellany that includes Golden Imperial Ossetra, Crown Russian Ossetra, Classic Russian Ossetra, Royal Siberian Ossetra and Classic Siberian Ossetra Caviar. Also; featuring in the caviar sale is our Italian Classic White Sturgeon. These are a definite favorites among some of the most avid caviar connoisseurs.
American Caviar
When great savings are part of the equation, no special occasion is required to enjoy caviar. American Caviar has achieved the distinction of being a top-rated product without the exorbitant price point typically associated with this delicacy. For caviar enthusiasts who want to indulge their taste buds as well as reap the health benefits from eating caviar on a more regular basis this year, House of Caviar and Fine Foods suggest exploring some of the best caviar deals on American Caviar brands such as California Royal White Sturgeon, American Hackleback caviar, Wild Paddlefish and Wild Paddlefish caviar to name a few.
Fish Roe
Like caviar, top-quality processed fish roe is whole, firm and juicy. Many chef’s or hosts use Tobiko Flying Fish Roe, Black Peppered Bowfin Roe, salmon and trout roe among others to add pizazz to otherwise ordinary or traditional fare. These fish roe contribute a range of flavors and a shimmering color palate to make a great budget friendly meal special. Already affordable, fish roe can be purchased in combination with other gourmet foods online in order to benefit from this one of a kind caviar sale event.
Caviar Gift Baskets
It is easy to take advantage of this caviar sale with any of our exquisite gourmet food baskets on sale that can be customized to your satisfaction. Select from a number of gift baskets such as Prestige Caviar Duo or our Imperial Caviar Gift Basket that is brimming with four top-quality caviars and accessories or our stunning Royal Collection complete with both Golden Imperial Ossetra Caviar, Royal Imperial Caviar, two Mother of Pearl Spoons a Mother of Pearl Server, Crème Fraiche, Blinis and Wild Hibiscus. Every basket has something different for a devoted caviar aficionado or a budding caviar enthusiast.
Gourmet Meats and Seafood
This is the season for indulgence by experiencing the most revered and coveted dry aged ham in the world; Iberico de Bellota Boneless Ham. Or, you can select from an amazing selection of other decadent meats, seafood, mouses and pates such as our succulent Hudson Valley apple wood smoked duck breasts, Jamon Serrano Ham, Paleta Serrano Ham shoulder, Boneless Lamb Shanks, Braised Boneless Ribs, Moulard Duck Legs and Thighs. Then try our squid ink smoked salmon Tuna Fillets or anchovies from our marinated seafood selection that are all part of this caviar sale opportunity.
Foie Gras
Before you buy foie gras online, browse through our expansive foie Gras gourmet selection featuring the highest grade fresh raw foie gras which can be purchased whole, lobed, deveined or hand sliced. Choose from Rougie Sliced Duck Foie Gras, Hudson Terrine of Foie Gras and Canadian Mulard Duck Foie Gras Escalopes among others.
Truffles
Our experts are particularly selective when it comes to this highly prized delicacy. House of Caviar and Fine foods carefully choose and provide fresh and preserved truffles such as Whole Winter Black Truffles from France, Italy or China with the most unique flavor profile. In addition, take a look at our tips on how to buy truffles online and the many truffle infused products that is included in our caviar sale such as Black Truffle Butter, White Truffle Sunflower Oil and decadent Black Truffle Tartufata sauce made with a blend of summer truffles and cold pressed olive oil just to name a few.
Other Specialty Products
Add any of our specialty items such as decadent fruit purees, preserves, gourmet oils, vinegar and salt, escargot,, dried fruit and nuts and much more to your shopping cart to take advantage of this amazing new year caviar sale.
You can experience the best imported and domestic caviar and gourmet foods from around the world that are now on sale online through the end of February at House of Caviar and Fine Foods. This is a great opportunity to explore a wide variety of gourmet fare at our online store. Also, follow House of Caviar and Fine Foods on Facebook for delicious recipes and more ideas on ways to incorporate these delicacies into your lifestyle.
by HOCAFF Team | Jan 11, 2017 | General
What makes a good quality vinegar and how to tell a good quality vinegar
Gourmet vinegar is a highly versatile ingredient that has been around for thousands of years. Valued since ancient times for the exceptionally rich flavor and aroma it imparts to dishes, gourmet vinegar is a tart, flavorful liquid that brings out the best in foods and ingredients. If you are only familiar with the white distilled vinegar commonly available in supermarkets, you are missing out on one of the most enjoyable condiments in the world. So what makes a good quality vinegar? There are certain essential qualities that all the best quality vinegars share:
Top quality vinegar base
To create a high quality vinegar, you need to start with a high quality base . The best quality vinegars do not have to have wine as a base, but they should be created using the highest quality base available. As a rule, you should choose vinegars that incorporate the highest quality ingredient produced by each region.
North America is famous for the quality of its apples, so look for cider vinegar from this area. France, Spain, and Italy produce exquisite wines, so wine vinegars are the staples from these regions. You can refine your search further, opting for vinegars made from wines specific to each region: sherry vinegars from Spain, champagne vinegars from France, and of course, the heavenly rich balsamic vinegars from Italy. The best quality wine vinegars actually bear the name of the specific wine used in their creation.
Only a few top quality ingredients
When you see vinegars that have a plethora of ingredients, it’s a good sign that the maker is trying to mask an inferior product. High quality vinegar has a clear, crisp taste that is pleasurable on its own, without the need for masking ingredients to make it palatable. Watch out for vinegars that contain sugars, extracts, colorings, and preservatives; the inclusion of these additives is a solid indicator that the flavor of the untreated vinegar is lacking.
Pasteurization is another warning sign that a vinegar is not of the best quality. The pasteurization process, meant to increase the shelf life of vinegar, actually strips vinegar of the natural characteristics and flavor that make it such a highly prized condiment. Only by avoiding preservatives, pasteurization, and masking ingredients can you create the full-bodied, rich taste seen in the best quality vinegars.
Slow fermentation process
The best quality vinegars are naturally fermented using the traditional French Orleans process. This time-consuming method bestows a richness of flavor that is worlds away from commercially produced vinegars. In the Orleans process, ventilation holes are drilled in old wine barrels, which are then filled with wine or another vinegar base. An older “mother” vinegar is introduced into the base, which is left to ferment naturally. This aging process can take months or even years, depending on the base used and the desired acidity and flavor.
Because the Orleans fermentation process uses no heat, the vinegar develops a rich flavor and aroma that is highly prized by discerning epicureans. The world famous Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, which is aged for 25 years before sale and is widely recognized as the best imported vinegar in the world, is created using this slow fermenting process. In contrast, commercially produced vinegars are created in mere hours, using a rushed process that produces vinegars that are highly acidic and unpalatable.
You can experience the best imported and gourmet vinegars from around the world through House of Caviar and Fine Foods. We offer a wide variety of gourmet vinegars, along with the finest caviar, Foie Gras, fresh or preserved truffles, and other specialty foods at our online store. Also, follow House of Caviar and Fine Foods on Facebook for delicious recipes and more ideas on ways to incorporate these delicacies into your lifestyle.
by HOCAFF Team | Jan 5, 2017 | General
Looking for the perfect gourmet ingredient? Try buying truffles online!
Buying truffles online allows you to enjoy the rarest, most flavorful truffles at any time of the year, without undue hassle or expense. Truffles are prized around the world for their pungently rich flavor and aroma. These heavenly diamonds of the culinary world impart an intoxicatingly delicious flavor to cuisine, whether you use fresh truffles or indulge in the gourmet condiments of truffle oil, truffle butter, truffle juice, or sauce. Finding quality truffles in neighborhood stores can be difficult, especially in smaller towns or areas without a gourmet shopping district. Discerning epicureans are discovering that buying truffles online is the most reliable way to obtain delicious preserved and fresh truffles to use in their recipes.
Truffles are the fruiting body of subterranean fungi. They grow near the root systems of certain oak, chestnut, beech, and hazel trees, approximately two and fifteen inches underground. Truffles are extremely difficult to find, as they cannot be seen from above ground. Truffle hunters employ trained pigs or dogs who can identify the delicate aroma of growing truffles, a scent that is undetectable by human noses. Truffles have a notoriously short growing season and demand for this superlative tuber exceeds supply by a wide margin, which contributes to truffles’ mystique and high cost.
One of the difficulties that many epicures face is trying to figure out where to buy truffles. Cooking with truffles has become increasingly popular, because these fragrant fungi can turn even the most homely dish into a gourmet feast. In many areas across the country, finding a reliable source for truffles can be next to impossible. This is particularly true in the case of fresh truffles, which need to be handled correctly to preserve their earthy taste and aroma without degradation.
Buying truffles online from a reputable company such as House of Caviar and Fine Food ensures you can find the most prized, elusive varieties of truffles to flavor your dishes. You can choose Black Truffles or White Truffles, which are both available in Winter and Summer varieties. Winter Black Truffles, also known as Black Diamond or Perigord Truffles, are the most flavorful truffles with a robust aroma and flavor. Summer Black Truffle, which are actually a separate variety of fungi, offer a subtler fragrance and more delicate taste Winter and Summer White Truffles are just harvested in different seasons.
Purchasing truffles online opens a world of flavorful possibilities. Instead of being restricted to a single choice like you find in a brick and mortar store, when you buy truffles online you can find this gourmet ingredient a variety of ways: fresh, frozen, preserved in jars or tins, and in gourmet specialty truffle condiments.
Buying truffles online gives you access to the finest fresh truffles, which are so hard to come by in conventional stores. These taste treats are spectacular shaved over meat and pasta dishes. If you are looking for the perfect ingredient to impart a gourmet touch to any cooked recipe, you can purchase delectable Winter Black Truffles, preserved in water and salt. You can find superb Black Winter Truffle Peelings, which impart a delicious flavor and aroma to rev up the flavor of soups and salads. And of course, you can find a wide selection of delicious truffle butter, truffle cream, truffle oil, and truffle sauce to incorporate into your recipes to make any dish special.
Learn more about the many ways to prepare, cook, and enjoy truffles by following House of Caviar and Fine Food online or on Facebook. Since all our truffles and caviar products meet the strictest importation and quality standards, you can feel secure that you are getting the freshest and highest quality gourmet products when you visit our online store.
