Handmade Crayfish Ravioli in a Cognac & Tarragon Cream Sauce
For those who love the finer things, these Handmade Crayfish Ravioli offer an explosion of Mediterranean flavors. The richness of the lobster and crayfish meat is balanced by a silky cream sauce infused with tarragon and a touch of Cayenne. If you appreciate traditional French techniques, you’ll find this as rewarding as our Gourmet Rabbit Terrine or our Duo of Stuffed Vegetables.
The Ingredients
The Stuffing:
- Crayfish (2 per ravioli) or 1 Lobster
- 1 Leek, 1 Carrot, 1 Celery branch
- Shallots & Butter
- Salt & Ground Pepper
The Infused Sauce:
- Crustacean Carcasses (Heads & Claws)
- 4cl Cognac (for Flambé)
- 50cl Fleurette Cream & 15cl White Wine
- Fresh Tarragon, Thyme & Laurel
- Cayenne Pepper
Preparation Method
1. The Seafood Bisque Base: Crush the heads and claws of your crustaceans. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes in a mix of oil and butter to release the aromatics, then flambé with Cognac. Add tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Deglaze with white wine, reduce, then add the Fleurette cream. Bring to a boil and set aside to infuse.
2. Gourmet Stuffing: Finely dice your mirepoix (carrot, leek, celery) and sauté in butter until soft. Chop the lobster or crayfish meat and combine with the vegetables. Add a tablespoon of your prepared sauce to bind the mixture together perfectly.
3. Ravioli Assembly: Place a portion of the stuffing onto large pasta squares. Top with a second square and seal the edges firmly by hand. Cook in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes until al dente.
4. Finishing & Emulsion: Reheat the sauce. Just before serving, whisk in 40g of cold butter to create a glossy, aerated emulsion. Plate the ravioli, drizzle generously with the sauce, and garnish with fresh basil, Parmesan, and a touch of olive oil. For a perfect festive meal, serve this after our Savory Foie Gras Bread Pie.
Complete Your Dinner Party:
- Starter: Rabbit & Pistachio Terrine
- Side: Zesty Seafood Salad
- Dessert: Dark Chocolate & Pear Tart