Prepare to elevate your seafood game with our Bourbon Marinated Smoked Salmon! This mouthwatering recipe combines the rich, smoky flavors of perfectly smoked salmon with a sweet and tangy bourbon marinade that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a gourmet meal at home, this dish is sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a stunning centerpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to dive into a culinary adventure? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon fillet
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and chopped fresh dill to create the marinade.
- Place the salmon fillet in a shallow glass or ceramic dish, ensuring the skin side is facing down.
- Pour the bourbon marinade over the salmon, making sure to coat the entire surface of the fish evenly.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes, allowing the salmon to absorb the marinade flavors. Do not marinate longer than 1 hour to prevent the fish from becoming too salty.
- Prepare your smoker by preheating it to 225°F (107°C). Use wood chips like apple or cedar for a mild, complementary flavor.
- Remove the salmon from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess liquid.
- Place the salmon on a clean, oiled smoker rack, skin side down.
- Smoke the salmon for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from smoker and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with additional fresh dill and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Tips
- Choose Quality Salmon: For the best flavor and texture, opt for a fresh, high-quality salmon fillet. Wild-caught salmon is often richer in flavor compared to farmed varieties.
- Marinate Carefully: Be mindful of the marinating time. While 30-45 minutes is ideal, avoid marinating for longer than an hour to prevent the salmon from becoming overly salty.
- Experiment with Wood Chips: While apple and cedar are great choices for smoking, don’t hesitate to experiment with different wood chips like hickory or cherry to find your preferred flavor profile.
- Monitor the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This guarantees the fish is cooked through while maintaining its moisture.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the smoked salmon to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the smoker. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.
- Garnish for Presentation: Fresh dill and lemon wedges not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful touch to your presentation. Don’t skip this step for that restaurant-quality finish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 65mg
