Introduction

Savor the delightful taste of caramelized miso salmon, a dish that combines the umami richness of miso with the succulent flavor of fresh salmon. This recipe from Les Recettes de Caty emphasizes simplicity and depth of flavor, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The dish is prepared on a baking sheet, ensuring that cleanup is a breeze while allowing the salmon to cook evenly.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Salmon fillets (4 pieces, approximately 150-200 grams each)
– Miso paste (3 tablespoons)
– Honey (2 tablespoons)
– Soy sauce (1 tablespoon)
– Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon)
– Sesame oil (1 teaspoon)
– Green onions (for garnish, finely chopped)
– Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Prep Time

Preparation time for this caramelized miso salmon recipe is approximately 10 minutes. This quick prep means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time is around 15 minutes, giving you a total time of about 25 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields 4 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preparation of the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together miso paste with brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Preparing the Salmon

Take the salmon fillets and place them in a shallow dish. Pour the miso marinade over the fillets, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Preheating the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) while the salmon is marinating.

Preparing the Baking Tray

Cover a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.

Baking the Salmon

Once marinated, place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking tray. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 to 15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Caramelizing the Salmon

For extra caramelization, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Serving the Dish

Remove the salmon from the oven. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the fillets if desired. Serve the caramelized salmon hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Notes

Marinating Time

For best flavor, it is recommended to marinate the salmon for at least 1 hour, but longer marinating times up to 2 hours can enhance the taste further.

Alternative Cooking Method

If you prefer, you can also grill the salmon on medium heat for 4-5 minutes on each side after marination for a smoky flavor.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover salmon, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Cook techniques

Caramelization

Caramelization is the process of cooking sugar until it melts and turns golden brown. This technique adds sweetness and complex flavors to dishes, enhancing both taste and appearance.

Glazing

Glazing involves applying a shiny coating to food, typically achieved by simmering a sauce until it thickens. This technique gives the salmon a beautiful, glossy finish and helps seal in moisture.

Broiling

Broiling is a high-heat cooking method where food is cooked directly under a heat source. This technique is perfect for quickly cooking salmon, producing a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Marinating

Marinating is the process of soaking food in a seasoned liquid to enhance flavor and tenderness. Using miso as a marinade infuses the salmon with umami-rich taste.

Plank Cooking

Cooking on a plank involves grilling or baking food on a wooden plank, which imparts a smoky flavor and keeps the fish moist during the cooking process.

FAQ

What type of salmon is best for this recipe?

Wild-caught salmon is often recommended due to its richer flavor and firmer texture, but farmed salmon can also work well.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, other firm fish like cod or trout can be substituted, but cooking times may vary.

How long should I marinate the salmon?

Marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate, but no more than 2 hours to avoid over-marinating.

What can I serve with caramelized salmon?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, caramelized salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days and reheated, making it a good option for meal prep.

Conclusion

The caramelized miso salmon is a delightful and unique dish that offers a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors. The caramelization process enhances the richness of the salmon, making it a standout meal. This recipe can easily become a family favorite, providing a satisfying and nutritious option for any dinner table.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Grilled teriyaki salmon

A flavorful alternative, grilled teriyaki salmon combines the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with a smoky char from the grill, perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Salmon poke bowl

For a fresh and vibrant meal, a salmon poke bowl topped with avocado, seaweed, and sesame seeds provides a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of caramelized salmon.

Sesame-crusted salmon

Add a crunchy twist to your meal with sesame-crusted salmon, offering a nutty flavor that pairs excellently with steamed rice and vegetables.

Spicy salmon tacos

Transform leftover salmon into spicy salmon tacos with a zesty chipotle sauce, topped with fresh cabbage and mango salsa for a refreshing kick.

Honey garlic salmon

The combination of honey and garlic creates a sticky glaze that complements the fish beautifully, making honey garlic salmon a delicious and simple weeknight dinner option.