Why Make This Recipe
Smoking salmon is a great way to enhance its flavor. It brings out a rich and smoky taste that can make any meal special.
Smoked salmon can be enjoyed in many ways, such as on bagels, in salads, or as a snack. This recipe is easy to follow and gives you delicious results right at home. Plus, homemade smoked salmon is fresh and free from preservatives.
How To Make Smoked Salmon
Ingredients:
- 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced or grated
- 1.5 pounds fresh salmon
Directions:
- Start by mixing the brown sugar, kosher salt, ground black pepper, fresh dill, and garlic in a bowl.
- Place the salmon on a wire rack over a baking sheet, skin side down. Rub the mixture all over the top of the salmon, making sure it is fully covered. Leave the skin alone.
- Place the salmon in the refrigerator, uncovered, for 1 hour.
- Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees F.
- Take the salmon out of the fridge and gently pat it dry with a paper towel. You don’t need to rinse it off.
- Place the salmon (skin side down) on a piece of foil and put it into the smoker.
- Let the salmon cook for 40-60 minutes, or until the thickest part reaches 130-135 degrees F.
- Serve the smoked salmon with smoked potatoes and smoked green beans for a tasty dinner. You can also use leftovers to make smoked salmon dip!
Prep Time And Nutrition Facts
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 40-60 minutes to cook, making a total of around 50-70 minutes. It serves about 4 people, and each serving has roughly 350 calories. Each serving is a good source of protein and healthy fats.
How To Serve Smoked Salmon
You can serve smoked salmon in many ways. It is delicious on a toasted bagel with cream cheese. You can also add it to salads or serve it as a main dish with sides like smoked potatoes and green beans. It also goes great with crackers for a simple snack.
How To Store Smoked Salmon
If you have leftover smoked salmon, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze smoked salmon if you want to keep it longer. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag.
Tips To Make Smoked Salmon
- Make sure your salmon is fresh for the best flavor.
- Don’t rush the refrigeration step; it helps the flavors soak in.
- Be careful not to overcook the salmon; check the temperature to ensure perfect results.
- Experiment with different spices or herbs in the brine for a unique flavor.
Health And Benefits Of This Recipe
Smoked salmon is very healthy. It is high in protein, which helps build muscles and keeps you full. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for your heart and brain. Furthermore, salmon is rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin D and selenium, making it a nutritious choice overall.
Variation
You can play with the flavors in this recipe by adding different herbs or spices. Try using lemon zest for a citrusy taste or add some cayenne pepper for spice. You could also experiment with different types of wood chips in the smoker for unique smoky flavors.
FAQs
Q: Can I smoke salmon without a smoker?
A: Yes! You can use a stovetop smoker or even bake it in the oven with a smoking method, but the flavors will be different.
Q: How do I know when the salmon is done?
A: The salmon is ready when the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 130-135 degrees F.
Q: Can I use frozen salmon for smoking?
A: Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the salmon before you start the brining process.