## Rick Stein’s Smoked Salmon: A Luxury Culinary Experience? In-Depth Review and Price Comparison
For discerning palates seeking culinary excellence, Rick Stein’s smoked salmon presents itself as a premium option. A collaborative effort between renowned Cornish chef Rick Stein and his son Jack, this isn’t your average supermarket salmon. It’s marketed as a refined take on the ‘classic King’s cure with extra smoke,’ a traditionally dry-cured salmon meticulously smoked over smoldering oak before undergoing a three-day maturation process in a Himalayan salt vault. This unique process elevates the salmon beyond the everyday, offering a truly special culinary experience.
Sourced from two carefully selected salmon farms in the Faroe Islands and expertly smoked by Severn & Wye Smokery, the origins of this product are as carefully considered as its preparation. Available exclusively online via Rick Stein’s website, it’s offered in two sizes: a 200g pack for £18.50 and a larger 400g option for £36. Our review focuses on the 200g pack.
Unboxing and First Impressions:
The 200g pack arrived impeccably presented. Each slice of vibrant, orange salmon was uniformly sized, immediately showcasing the high level of care taken in its preparation. While separating the approximately 10 slices, gently turning the slab proved helpful, a minor inconvenience easily overcome. The thickness of each slice was perfect – substantial enough to hold its shape but not overly thick, making it incredibly versatile for various culinary applications.
Taste and Texture:
Opening the pack released a delicate, smoky aroma, far from overpowering, instead offering a subtle and alluring hint. This understated smokiness carries through to the taste; a gentle, nuanced flavour that complements the natural richness of the salmon without masking it. A significant advantage over many supermarket options is the complete absence of hard, unpleasant bits, resulting in an impressively smooth and consistent texture throughout. The lack of a strong, fishy odour further underlines the salmon’s exceptional freshness.
Visual Appeal and Quality:
The salmon’s vibrant colour is truly striking, a far cry from the pale pink or discoloured hues sometimes seen in less premium products. The overall appearance is a testament to the meticulous care taken throughout the entire process, from the initial sourcing to the final delivery. While the exact timeline isn’t specified, it’s clear that this salmon undergoes a carefully managed journey to ensure the highest quality.
A Refined Taste, Not a Bold One:
The flavours, while distinctly present, are mild and refined, catering to those who appreciate a subtle, delicate taste rather than a robust, intensely smoky one. This is a key point to consider; those seeking a powerfully smoky salmon might find it slightly understated.
Value for Money and Price Comparison:
At £18.50 for 200g, Rick Stein’s smoked salmon is undeniably a premium product. However, let’s put its price into perspective. It’s only £3.50 more expensive than Good Housekeeping’s 2024 ‘best-smoked salmon’ winner, Fortnum & Mason’s Farmed Scottish Smoked Salmon (200g, £15). Comparing it to supermarket options paints a clearer picture: it’s less than double the price of Tesco Finest Strong and Robust Scottish Smoked Salmon (100g, £4.60 or £9.20 for 200g) and only slightly more expensive than Mowi ASC Scottish Smoked Salmon (100g, £5.50 or £11 for 200g from Ocado), which Good Housekeeping praised for its thicker slices.
Conclusion:
Rick Stein’s smoked salmon is a luxurious treat. The consistent slice size, ideal thickness, incredibly smooth texture, and subtly smoky flavour make it a premium choice. While the price is higher than supermarket alternatives, the superior quality and overall experience justify the cost for those seeking a refined culinary indulgence. It’s a perfect festive treat or a special addition to any meal where quality is paramount. Just remember, if you crave intensely smoky salmon, this might not be the perfect choice for you.
