Sami-Inspired Reindeer Dressing

Ingredients

In this Sami-inspired version of the Louis Dressing, the main difference lies in the use of reindeer meat instead of traditional proteins like chicken or shrimp. Additionally, the dressing incorporates Sami spices such as juniper berries and wild thyme, which add a distinct flavor profile to the dish. The garnish of fresh herbs and lingonberry provides a touch of Sami tradition and enhances the overall taste experience. We alse have the original recipe for Louis Dressing, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) reindeer meat, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) reindeer meat, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon juniper berries, crushed 1 tablespoon juniper berries, crushed
• 1 teaspoon wild thyme 1 teaspoon wild thyme
• 1 cup (240ml) sour cream 1 cup (240ml) sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lingonberry jam 2 tablespoons lingonberry jam
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives), for garnish Fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives), for garnish
• Flatbread, for serving Flatbread, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the crushed juniper berries, wild thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture onto the sliced reindeer meat and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In another bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lingonberry jam, and fresh dill until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. 3.
   Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated reindeer meat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. 4.
   Remove the reindeer meat from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, thinly slice it into bite-sized pieces.
5. 5.
   Arrange the sliced reindeer meat on a serving platter and drizzle the dressing over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs.
6. 6.
   Serve the Sami-inspired reindeer dressing with flatbread on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Reindeer meat — Ensure that the reindeer meat is thinly sliced for quick and even cooking. If reindeer meat is not available, you can substitute it with lean venison or beef.
• Lingonberry jam — If lingonberry jam is not accessible, cranberry sauce can be used as a substitute.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the dressing.
• If you prefer a spicier dressing, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing mixture.
• Serve the reindeer dressing chilled for a refreshing contrast to the warm meat.

Serving advice

This Sami-inspired reindeer dressing is best served as an appetizer or as part of a buffet-style meal. Arrange the sliced reindeer meat on a platter and let guests help themselves to the dressing and flatbread. Encourage them to experiment with different combinations of reindeer meat, dressing, and herbs to find their favorite flavor combination.

Presentation advice

To create an eye-catching presentation, arrange the reindeer meat slices in a circular pattern on the platter. Drizzle the dressing over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides of the meat. Garnish with a generous amount of fresh herbs for a pop of color.