Coulibiac

Coulibiac is a traditional Russian pastry filled with a savory mixture of flaky salmon, rice, sautéed onions, and mushrooms, all encased in golden puff pastry. This dish combines fresh dill and zesty lemon juice, creating a delicious, flaky centerpiece for any meal.

13 Jan 2026
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 25 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup white rice
1 lb salmon
1/4 cup butter
1 onion
2 tbsp mushrooms
1 tbsp dill
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 egg
2 sheets puff pastry
Coulibiac

Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice:
- Cook the rice according to the package instructions until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the salmon fillet on a baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the oven and let it cool. Once cooled, flake the salmon into small pieces.
3. Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
- Add the chopped mushrooms and sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are soft.
- Stir in the cooked rice, flaked salmon, chopped dill, and lemon juice. Mix well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the filling to cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Coulibiac:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a floured surface to smooth its edges. Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread the salmon and rice mixture in the center of the puff pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg.
- Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry and place it over the filling. Press the edges together to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork or twist them decoratively.
- Brush the top of the pastry with the remaining beaten egg to give it a golden color when baked.
- If desired, cut a few small slits or decorative patterns on the top of the pastry to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake:
- Bake the coulibiac in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve:
- Allow the coulibiac to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious homemade coulibiac!

Coulibiac FAQ:

What is the ideal baking time for coulibiac?

Bake the coulibiac in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and cooked through.

How can I tell if the salmon is properly cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C). It should be opaque and not translucent.

Can I store leftover coulibiac, and if so, how?

Yes, leftover coulibiac can be stored in the refrigerator. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and consume within 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

What are some substitutions for the ingredients in coulibiac?

You can substitute the salmon with other fish like trout or use canned salmon for a quicker option. For a vegetarian version, replace the salmon with sautéed spinach and feta cheese, and use vegetable broth for cooking the rice.

What size baking sheet should I use for the coulibiac?

A standard baking sheet (approximately 18x13 inches) should work well for assembling and baking the coulibiac, allowing enough space for the puff pastry to expand.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 720kcal
Protein 24g
Carbohydrates 54g
Fiber 2.07g
Sugar 2.49g
Fat 44g

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