Zakuski

🔥 Prep

• Slice the 100g cheese into thin rectangles or cubes.
• Dice the 100g ham into bite‑size pieces.
• Slice the 5 pickles into rounds or lengthwise strips.
• Cut the 200g bread into slices about 1 cm thick.
• Cube the 50g butter into small pieces for easy melting.

🔥 Cook

• 1. Place a skillet on the stove and set to medium heat; let it warm for 1 minute.
• 2. Add half of the butter cubes (about 25 g) to the skillet and allow them to melt, swirling to coat the bottom.
• 3. Lay the bread slices in the skillet in a single layer; toast each side for 2 minutes until golden brown, then flip and repeat.
• 4. Remove the toasted bread to a plate and keep warm.
• 5. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter (25 g) and increase to medium‑high heat.
• 6. Add the diced ham and sauté for 1 minute, stirring constantly, just to warm through without overcooking.
• 7. Transfer the ham to a bowl and let cool slightly.
• 8. Arrange the cheese, pickles, warm ham, and toasted bread on a serving platter.

🔥 Serve

• Garnish the platter with fresh herbs such as dill or parsley if desired.
• Serve the zakuski at room temperature with optional accompaniments like mustard, horseradish, or a light salad.
• Pair with chilled vodka, kvass, or a crisp white wine for a traditional Russian experience.