Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Brown Sugar Smoked Salmon recipe! Imagine tender, flaky salmon fillets infused with a perfect balance of sweet brown sugar, savory soy sauce, and a hint of zesty Dijon mustard - this dish is about to become your new go-to recipe that will impress family and friends alike. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, this recipe promises restaurant-quality results that are surprisingly simple to achieve.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 salmon fillets, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon black pepper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and black pepper. Whisk the mixture together until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the marinade is well combined.
- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring that each fillet is well coated. If using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap; if using a bag, seal it tightly. Allow the salmon to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour for a stronger flavor.
- While the salmon is marinating, preheat your grill or smoker to medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C). If using a smoker, prepare it according to the manufacturer's instructions and add your choice of wood chips for smoking (such as cedar or hickory).
- Once the grill or smoker is ready, remove the salmon from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade.
- If grilling, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill or smoker. Close the lid and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon from the grill or smoker using a spatula. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the brown sugar smoked salmon with your choice of sides, such as a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or rice. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Choose high-quality salmon: Look for fresh, wild-caught salmon with firm, bright flesh for the best flavor and texture.
- Marinating magic: Don't rush the marinating process. While 15 minutes works, letting the salmon sit for up to an hour will intensify the flavors.
- Temperature is key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon reaches the perfect 145°F internal temperature without overcooking.
- Wood chip wisdom: Experiment with different wood chips like cedar or hickory to add unique smoky undertones to your salmon.
- Avoid cross-contamination: Always use separate utensils and plates for raw and cooked salmon, and wash your hands thoroughly.
- Resting matters: Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Make-ahead friendly: This recipe can be prepared in advance and gently reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 95mg
