What Is Caviar? The Complete Guide

Jul 23

Ever stared at those shiny black pearls on a tiny spoon and thought—what is caviar anyway? Is it fancy fish food? A rich-person snack? Or something way deeper? If you've ever typed "caviar, what is it?" into a search bar, you're not alone. People across the globe are curious about this luxurious bite of the sea.

From decoding what caviar is, to discovering the difference between Beluga and other types, to learning how to make caviar at home (and even a cowboy version!), this guide has it all. With Björk Caviar’s sustainable insight, you’ll learn more than just what’s on your toast—you’ll get the full roe story.

In this guide, you’ll find everything from how to make a caviar to tips on serving it right, plus a full breakdown of the world’s most expensive types. Ready to crack the tin open? Let’s go.

Caviar 101 – Caviar: What Is It & Why It Matters

Let’s start at the beginning: what is caviar? More than just a delicacy, it’s a cultural icon—served in royal courts, high-end events, and yes, even on potato chips (we’ll get there). If you’ve ever paused mid-bite, wondering, What is caviar, here’s your answer.

At its core, it's the salt-cured eggs, or roe, of sturgeon—an ancient fish prized for its rich, buttery pearls. These tiny gems are typically served cold and eaten slowly, often as a luxurious appetizer. But caviar, what is it beyond the basics? It’s a tradition, a treat, and a tale of taste that spans centuries.

Today, caviar is not just for the ultra-rich or the well-traveled. Thanks to sustainable aquaculture and culinary creativity, more people are asking about caviar, and they’re enjoying it on their own terms—from high-end tastings to homemade cowboy caviar recipes.

Where Is Caviar From? Origins & Modern Farms

Before we dive into tins and toast, let's answer the common question: where is caviar from?

Traditional Caspian & Black Sea Harvests

Caviar’s story starts in the Caspian and Black Seas, where ancient Persians first enjoyed sturgeon roe. These waters were once the hub for prized Beluga, Sevruga, and Osetra eggs. For centuries, Russia and Iran dominated the market, turning caviar into a delicacy for czars and shahs alike.

Sustainable Sturgeon Aquaculture Worldwide

Wondering where is caviar from today? Thanks to environmental regulations and overfishing concerns, the answer has shifted from wild waters to sustainable farms. Modern caviar now comes from eco-certified aquaculture facilities, where sturgeon are raised responsibly to preserve both quality and the species itself. Countries like France, China, the U.S., and Italy have become leading sources of premium farmed caviar, with brands like Björk Caviar setting the standard for taste and sustainability.

What Is Beluga Caviar? Flavor, Texture & Rarity

So, what is Beluga caviar, and why is it always mentioned with hushed awe?

Beluga caviar comes from the Beluga sturgeon (Huso huso), a fish that can live over 100 years and grow as big as a small car. Its roe is the largest, softest, and most buttery among all sturgeon varieties. Because the Beluga sturgeon matures slowly and is protected by strict conservation laws, true Beluga caviar is incredibly rare. That’s why anyone asking what is Beluga caviar often finds themselves diving into a world of luxury, scarcity, and a price tag to match.

What Is the Most Expensive Caviar in the World?

Let’s answer the golden question: what is the most expensive caviar?

Factors That Drive Sky-High Prices

Rarity of species (hello again, Beluga)
Harvest time (older sturgeon = richer roe)
Processing method (malossol = light salt)
Pearl size and texture
Color and freshness

How Björk Ensures Ethical Luxury

At Björk Caviar, we believe indulgence should never come at the cost of the environment. Even our most luxurious selections are sourced through strict ethical farming practices. Wondering what is the most expensive caviar that’s both sustainable and stunning? Meet the rare Albino Beluga—ethically farmed and naturally golden, it’s as guilt-free as it is glamorous.

How to Make Caviar: Step-by-Step at Home

Think you can’t DIY decadence? Think again. Here's how to make caviar at home using fresh fish roe.

Selecting & Cleaning Fresh Roe

Choose high-quality roe from salmon, trout, or sturgeon
Rinse gently in cold water to remove blood or membrane
Use a fine-mesh sieve to separate the eggs

Salting, Sieving & Storage Tips

Mix roe with sea salt (3-5% by weight)
Let it rest for 15–30 minutes in the fridge
Strain, rinse, and store in a sterile glass jar
Consume within 2–3 days for peak flavor

Making your own roe won’t replace Beluga, but it will teach you how to make a caviar that’s fresh, flavorful, and proudly homemade.

How to Make Cowboy Caviar: A Fresh Dip Recipe

Want something fun and fresh? How to make cowboy caviar is super easy—and don’t worry, there’s no fish involved. Just grab:

1 can of black beans (rinsed)
1 can of corn
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 avocado, diced
Juice of 1 lime
A bit of salt, pepper, and olive oil

Mix everything in a bowl and pop it in the fridge. That’s it! You’ve just made cowboy caviar—a colorful, crowd-pleasing dip with a zesty Tex-Mex vibe.

Serving Caviar – Tools, Pairings & Presentation

Want to serve caviar the right way? Here’s a simple guide:

Always use a mother-of-pearl spoon—metal can ruin the taste.
Keep the caviar cold by placing it over ice.
Serve with blinis, crème fraîche, or even chips if you're making cowboy caviar.
Chill your vodka or Champagne before serving.

Whether you're just finding out what is caviar or planning a fancy snack night, how you serve it makes a big difference. Keep it cool, simple, and stylish.

FAQ – Quick Answers to “Caviar What Is,” Sourcing & DIY

Q: Caviar, what is it—fish or something else?
A: It's fish eggs, specifically from sturgeon. That’s what caviar is in its purest form.

Q: Where is caviar from now?
A: Most luxury caviar is from sustainable farms in Europe, China, and the U.S.

Q: What is the most expensive caviar and why?
A: Rare species like Albino Beluga with massive pearls can sell for thousands per ounce.

Q: Can I learn how to make caviar at home?
A: Yes! With fresh roe and sea salt, you can try your hand at homemade caviar.

Q: How to make cowboy caviar that actually tastes great?
A: Use fresh ingredients and let the flavors marinate overnight!

So… What Is Caviar, Really? Let’s Recap

To wrap it up: What is caviar? It’s sturgeon roe—and much more. If you've ever wondered what is caviar food, now you know it's a delicacy rooted in history and luxury. From discovering where is caviar from, to tasting the richness of what is Beluga caviar, or trying your hand at how to make cowboy caviar, Björk Caviar brings elegance to your table.

Christian Sandefeldt