Best Cracker for Caviar: Ideal Interplay of Flavor and Texture (11 Options)

Caviar is excellent when enjoyed on its own, but if you’re serving it on a cracker, you want to create the perfect combination. After all, you’re spending too much money to risk disappointment in your choices.

Fortunately, many foodies enjoy the debate over this topic, as I discovered in the course of my research. While you can select from a broad range of products, you want to allow the natural briny flavor of the eggs to take center stage.

I’ve found that it’s best to stick to crackers that have a mild flavor on their own. From the crisp buttery rounds of RITZ to the paper-thin Carr’s Water Biscuits, there’s a cracker to suit every taste.

In my ultimate guide to the best cracker for caviar, you’ll learn the following:

The different brands of caviar and their serving suggestions

Various cracker brands and their taste qualities
How to best combine these crackers with caviar
Recipe ideas

You might be tempted to assumed that caviar is expensive, and you’d be right. However, that’s because most of the fish that produce it are endangered, and the process of extracting the eggs is a laborious one.

On an episode of Frasier, a character complained about the high price of the product. The store owner replied, “For you, yes. For the fish who gave up her life so you could spread her unborn children on a cracker, not so much.”

Caviar on crackers. With Prosecco. Yeah, I was 5.

— The Wonderful Old Gentleman (@MrSavileRow) July 7, 2022

1. About Caviar →
1.1. Types →
1.2. Serving Suggestions →

1.3. Etiquette →
2. Best Cracker for Caviar →
2.1. RITZ Crackers →

2.2. Carr’s Water Crackers →
2.3. Triscuit Wheat Thins Crackers →
2.4. Wheat Thins Crackers →

2.5. Ak-Mak Sesame Whole Wheat Crackers →
2.6. Finn Crisp Original Rye Crispbread →
2.7. Mary’s Gone Crackers Organic Super Seed Crackers →

2.8. Red Oval Farms Stoned Wheat Thins →
2.9. Crunch Master 5 Seed Multi-Grain Cracker with Olive Oil →
2.10. RW Garcia Artisan Sweet Beet Crackers →

2.11. Asturi Black & Green Olive Bruschettinis →
3. Recipe Ideas →
3.1. Blini →

3.2. Crackers →
3.3. Eggs →
3.4. Potato Pancakes →

3.5. Potato Chips →
3.6. Cucumbers →
3.7. Fish →

3.8. Lemon →
3.9. Butter →
4. Useful Resources →

About Caviar

How much do you know about caviar? Even those of us who’ve been lucky enough to enjoy it are often in the dark about the various types, and what distinguishes one from another.

In this section, I’ll provide a broad overview of these topics. I’ll also talk about the proper etiquette for serving and enjoying caviar.

Types

First of all, know that if the product is called caviar, it comes from a sturgeon.

Eggs that come from other types of fish — salmon, for example — are called roe, which is more of a generic term. In other words, while all caviar is roe, not all roe is caviar.

There are several different types of sturgeon, but most of the eggs you’ll find available for sale will come from the beluga, osstreta, or sevruga varieties.

Beluga caviar consists of large, pearlescent gray eggs with a buttery texture and rich yet subtle flavor. It’s widely considered the best type of caviar in the bunch.

The eggs from the osstreta sturgeon are medium-sized and range in color from gold to darker brown. They have a slightly nutty flavor and are nearly as prized as the beluga variety.

Sevruga is the most widely available and therefore the cheapest, as these fish can reproduce more quickly than the others. Gray to black in color, the eggs are slightly crunchy, with an intense briny flavor.

Whichever variety you choose, the eggs shouldn’t taste too fishy, nor should they be overly salty. Moreover, the eggs should be shiny and whole, not cracked. Otherwise, the product is likely of poor quality.

Check out these reactions from people who are trying this delicacy for the first time:

Serving Suggestions

The first rule of caviar is to serve it very cold. It’s important not to freeze the eggs, as this can have an adverse effect on their texture, but you want them to be as cold as possible without reaching that point.

You can store the caviar in the coldest portion of the fridge, as it can take temperatures as low as 28 degrees before it freezes. When serving, use a non-metallic bowl inside a larger bowl that’s been filled with ice.

While we’re on the subject of bowls and serving utensils, they should never be made of metal. Traditionally, serving spoons are made of either gold or mother-of-pearl, but you can also use bone, glass, wood, tortoiseshell, or plastic.

Consider this tip from the CaviarLover blog:

It is essential not to use utensils or serve dishes made from silver or other metal because they are oxidized. The result? Your delicious, fabulous caviar may have an unpleasant metallic taste.

Note that if you opt for plastic utensils, they’ll also need to be kept cold — or at least cool. Plastic shouldn’t be heated past a certain temperature. Click here to learn more.

As we’ll discuss in the next section, it’s customary to spread the product on a cracker or toast point before serving. That’s why I’m here to tell you about the best cracker for caviar. However, you can also enjoy the eggs on their own — right off the spoon. `
Quality caviar is best when served unadulterated. If the product is of lesser quality, it can benefit from other ingredients, such as lemon or sour cream. I’ll discuss these options further in Recipe Ideas, below.

Some foodies enjoy topping sushi rolls with a spoonful of the good stuff. If you try this, select a type that will work well with the other ingredients — in terms of color as well as flavor.

Black or Red vodka caviar? #Foodie #sushi pic.twitter.com/toGqCCuthF

— Daniel Mercurio (@ChefDaniel84) July 7, 2022

When choosing a beverage to serve alongside the caviar, opt for chilled premium vodka or champagne. The vodka needs to have a pure, neutral flavor that won’t interfere with the taste of the caviar. If you choose champagne, it should be as dry as possible.

Sanitation is always important, but it’s critical when serving fish, even if it’s just the eggs. If you’re wondering what products to use to keep your serving area clean, check out the tips in this article.

Etiquette

Take small bites. This isn’t an ingredient to stuff your face with — you should eat no more than 1/2 teaspoon at a time.
Don’t chew — this will eliminate a great deal of flavor. Instead, crush the beads lightly against the roof of your mouth using your tongue.
Eat only a couple of spoonfuls, or about 2 ounces, when enjoying caviar as an hors d’oeuvre.

Best Cracker for Caviar

The benefits of spreading the eggs on a cracker are well-documented, as evidenced by this quote from Pearls of Caviar:

The trick is to keep it simple because caviar itself has an amazing taste, and you don’t want to spoil it with anything that could overtake that flavor. So, I recommend you start tasting this snack by simply putting it on crackers.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk about the best cracker for caviar. You might want to experiment with more than one, which is why I’ve included flavor profiles for each of the following brands.

RITZ Crackers →

One of the company’s most enduring slogans is, “Everything tastes better when it sits on a RITZ.” While many purists might disagree that this is the case when it comes to premium caviar, there’s no denying the enduring popularity of this cracker.

The rounds are a bit thicker than I would prefer, but they have a nice crunch and a rich buttery flavor that pairs well with the briny pearls. Since a RITZ cracker has more salt than some of the other options listed here, it’s a better choice for milder-tasting caviars.

When you’re using RITZ as an accompaniment, it’s fine to add creme fraiche or some of the other ingredients we’ve listed below. In this case, the caviar should be considered an ingredient and not the entire hors d’oeuvre.

Carr’s Table Water Crackers →

On the other hand, if you want to put the spotlight on the eggs, a Carr’s Table Water Cracker is an excellent option.

Carr’s offers a cracker with a light, delicate texture and neutral flavor. We prefer the original ones for this application, but you can also choose from cracked pepper, rosemary, toasted sesame, poppy and sesame, or roasted garlic and herb.

Since this cracker doesn’t have a great deal of flavor on its own, we prefer to save it for the times when we’re serving the caviar without any other toppings. A squeeze of lemon is fine, but we would suggest keeping the sour cream and herbs off the table.

Triscuit Crackers →

Did you know that Triscuits are the cracker that’s most often used as a vehicle for caviar? In fact, this woven wheat cracker is superb with many toppings, from cream cheese and lox to whole grain mustard and cheddar.

You’re bound to notice the texture of a Triscuit cracker more than the flavor, which is slightly nutty but otherwise bland. The firm wheat base, however, holds up well beneath the briny caviar and creates a fine interplay of textures. Try spreading a bit of creme fraiche or sour cream on the cracker as well.

Wheat Thins Crackers →

This baked wheat cracker is thinner and crisper than the Triscuit, with a nutty and slightly buttery taste. Since it’s so delicate, it won’t detract from the mouthfeel of the eggs.

When Wheat Thins are on the table, you can either experiment with some of the ingredients we’ve suggested in the section below, or keep things simple. That’s the beauty of this cracker — it’s as versatile as it is delicious.

Ak-Mak Sesame Whole Wheat Crackers →

If you’ve never tried this type of cracker before, your next caviar party might be the perfect time to start.

They resemble a type of flatbread, dotted with toasted sesame seeds and offering a rich flavor of their own. Best of all, they’re sturdy enough not to crumble when topped with roe, even if there are other ingredients added.

Finn Crisp →

This cracker might not look like much, but if you want to let the flavor of the caviar shine, it’s a fine choice. Light, crisp, and not too salty, it’s superb with finer caviars like beluga and osstreta.

Mary’s Gone Crackers Organic Super Seed Crackers →

Looking to fit a few extra whole grains in your diet? Mary’s Gone Organic Super Seed Crackers are loaded with whole grain brown rice, flax and sesame seeds, and quinoa. They’re great for dipping, and even better when served alongside caviar.

Red Oval Farms Stoned Wheat Thins →

This is another cracker that’s slightly boring on its own, but it makes a great base for canapes. Try topping it with cream cheese and dill along with a dollop of caviar.

Crunch Master 5 Seed Multi-Grain Cracker with Olive Oil →

Like the Organic Super Seed Cracker from Mary’s Gone, this cracker is loaded with seeds and baked in an attractive hexagonal shape. Although the flavor might be too intense for more delicate caviars, you can count on it not to fall apart beneath the weight of the toppings.

RW Garcia Artisan Sweet Beet Crackers →

Looking for a distinctive cracker for your next gathering? These tasty morsels have a rich earthy flavor and a lovely ruby hue, making them as much a conversation piece as a vehicle for your dips and spreads.

Asturi Black & Green Olive Bruschettini →

From the crisp texture to the briny flavor from the olives, there isn’t anything about this product that doesn’t complement the caviar. While it’s not a traditional cracker, it’s an elegant offering that’s sure to impress your guests.

To help you differentiate between these offerings, here’s a brief roundup.

**Cracker Comparison:**
	RITZ Crackers → They have a nice crunch and a rich buttery flavor that pairs well with the briny pearls. Since a RITZ cracker has more salt than some of the other options listed here, it’s a better choice for milder-tasting caviars.
	Carr’s Water Crackers → Carr’s offers a cracker with a light, delicate texture and neutral flavor. Since this cracker doesn’t have a great deal of flavor on its own, we prefer to save it for the times when we’re serving the caviar without any other toppings.
	Triscuit Crackers → You’re bound to notice the texture of a Triscuit cracker more than the flavor, which is slightly nutty but otherwise bland. The firm wheat base, however, holds up well beneath the briny caviar and creates a fine interplay of textures.
	Wheat Thins Crackers → This baked wheat cracker is thinner and crisper than the Triscuit, with a nutty and slightly buttery taste. Since it’s so delicate, it won’t detract from the mouthfeel of the eggs.
	Ak-Mak Sesame Whole Wheat Crackers → They resemble a type of flatbread, dotted with toasted sesame seeds and offering a rich flavor of their own. Best of all, they’re sturdy enough not to crumble when topped with roe, even if there are other ingredients added.
	Finn Crisp Original Rye Crispbread → If you want to let the flavor of the caviar shine, it’s a fine choice. Light, crisp, and not too salty, it’s superb with finer caviars like beluga and osstreta.
	Mary’s Gone Crackers Organic Super Seed Crackers → Mary’s Gone Organic Super Seed Crackers are loaded with whole grain brown rice, flax and sesame seeds, and quinoa. They’re great for dipping, and even better when served alongside caviar.
	Red Oval Farms Stoned Wheat Thins → Slightly boring on its own, but it makes a great base for canapes.
	Crunch Master 5 Seed Multi-Grain Cracker with Olive Oil → This cracker is loaded with seeds and baked in an attractive hexagonal shape. Although the flavor might be too intense for more delicate caviars, you can count on it not to fall apart beneath the weight of the toppings.
	RW Garcia Artisan Sweet Beet Crackers → These tasty morsels have a rich earthy flavor and a lovely ruby hue, making them as much a conversation piece as a vehicle for your dips and spreads.
	Asturi Black & Green Olive Bruschettini → From the crisp texture to the briny flavor from the olives, there isn’t anything about this product that doesn’t complement the caviar.

Feel free to create an assortment so you can determine which ones pair best with various topping combinations.

Check out this instructional video for tips on the best way to enjoy the delicate pearls using a cracker as a vehicle.

Recipe Ideas

Still wondering how you can create the perfect presentation? I’ll provide a few mouthwatering recipes to get you started.

Blini

If you’ve never had blini, you’re in for a treat. These Russian delicacies are miniature pancakes made from buckwheat flour and raised with yeast. When they’re done right, they create a bite-sized plate that makes the ideal hors d’oeuvre.

To make a traditional blini, top the pancake with sour cream and caviar. You might also add a sprinkling of minced chives. You can also duplicate this recipe using a cracker instead of the blini, if you’d like.

Should you create a mess while making homemade blini, read the tips in this article to help you get your cookware back in prime working order.

Crackers

We’ve already discussed the delights of spreading the eggs on a top-notch cracker. Depending on which cracker you choose, you can leave it at that or experiment with other flavors.

Lox, or cold marinated salmon, is another classic accompaniment. You can also use fresh salmon or trout, cream cheese, sour cream, creme fraiche, and aromatic fresh herbs such as dill and tarragon.

Eggs

Pairing fish eggs with chicken eggs? You bet.

Deviled eggs have a creamy texture and a mild flavor that benefits from a nice kick of brine. Even if you stick with plain hard-boiled eggs, a dollop of caviar can be just the ingredient to take it to the next level.

This dish has another aesthetic advantage: The eggs provide a neutral-colored backdrop to the brightly colored eggs. That means you can showcase your investment while enjoying a delectable dish at the same time.

To make Russian-style deviled eggs, mix the yolks with cream cheese, mayonnaise, paprika, and fresh parsley. Top with a dollop of quality roe, and you’ve got a fine appetizer.

Tip: If you’re lucky enough to have access to quail eggs, try using those instead.

Potato Pancakes

Similar to blini, potato pancakes provide a superb palette for the rich, salty eggs. Sour cream and chives are classic pairings, but since potatoes don’t taste like much on their own, you can try adding different herbs as long as they don’t overwhelm the star attraction.

Potato Chips

I love the combination of potato chips and sour cream. Adding caviar just makes the whole experience more decadent.

It might not seem like an obvious pairing, but crispy potato chips actually make a great foil for the delicate eggs. Try substituting creme fraiche for the sour cream to take things up another notch.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are crisp and refreshing on their own, but their firm, crunchy texture can be used as a base for fish eggs as well. This creates another aesthetically pleasing hors d’oeuvre that’s sure to be a hit at your next party. As a bonus, a slice of cucumber is a gluten-free alternative to a cracker.

Cut a cucumber into rounds about 1/4 inch thick, then top each round with a dollop of sour cream. Add 1/2 teaspoon of your favorite caviar. The sour cream will bring out the briny flavor and help the eggs adhere to the cucumber.

Fish

Since the eggs come from fish, it might seem redundant to serve them alongside other fish. In truth, the salty flavor and unique texture of the eggs can add complexity to simple fish dishes.

Top a piece of grilled salmon or squid with a spoonful of caviar. Serve with a crispy potato cake or creamy risotto.

Squid with broth and Caviar pic.twitter.com/MSwF2FkzA6

— Adolfo Roma (@AdolfoRoma6) July 5, 2022

Lemon

There’s no trick to serving caviar with lemon. Just set a dish of lemon slices next to the serving dish, along with a set of tongs.

Squeeze the lemon juice over the eggs just before taking a bite and let the refreshing astringency deliver another gift to your taste buds. This can work whether you’re spreading the eggs on a cracker or eating them off a spoon.

Butter

This is another simple presentation. Serve the eggs very cold alongside a plate of crushed butter. That way, guests can decide for themselves how much butter they want to include with each serving.

Alternatively, you can top a cracker or crostini with the butter, then add the briny eggs on top of that to create a mini open-faced sandwich. Use a generous amount of butter — it has a mild flavor and a lovely mouthfeel when it’s well-chilled.

If you still think of this ingredient as an intimidating luxury, this video tutorial should ease your feelings of trepidation.

Useful Resources

A Simple Trick for Keeping Greens Fresher, Longer in the Fridge →

In Conclusion

What’s the best cracker for caviar? If given the choice, I’ll opt for a cracker that doesn’t have a strong flavor of its own so that the best qualities of the eggs can shine through.

However, since this delicacy also pairs well with buttery dishes, a cracker like RITZ can work just as well — and there’s a good chance you already have some in your cupboard.

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Cindy Becker

My name is Cindy and I'm a professional chef with many years of experience. I enjoy teaching everyone about cooking. It does not matter if you are a newbie or a seasoned chef.
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When You’re Searching for the Best Cracker for Caviar, Texture and Flavor Are Key

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