Savory Soy-Glazed Salmon: A Healthy & Delicious Baked Recipe
Soy-Glazed Baked Salmon: A Delectable Homemade Delicacy
Let’s make a healthy and incredibly flavorful baked salmon using a simple yet delicious soy-based glaze. This recipe is perfect for a nutritious meal or a special occasion.
Salmon Baking Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (approx. 150-200g each), fresh
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic (freshly minced garlic offers the best aroma)
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce (adjust according to taste and brand)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup (can substitute with honey or sugar)
- Pinch of salt (for seasoning salmon, optional)
- Pinch of black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
- 1 tsp grated or finely minced fresh ginger (adds a wonderful depth of flavor)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare your salmon fillets. If you’ve purchased them from a place like Costco, they often come with the skin on and bones removed, making them convenient to use. Gently rinse the salmon under cold running water and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Ensuring the salmon is dry, especially the skin side, is crucial for achieving a nice crisp texture when cooked.
Step 2
Set aside the two prepared salmon fillets for a moment before placing them in the pan.
Step 3
Now, let’s create the delicious soy glaze. Start by finely mincing 1 tablespoon of fresh garlic and placing it into a bowl. Using freshly minced garlic will significantly enhance the overall aroma and flavor of the dish.
Step 4
Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce to the bowl. Soy sauce is key for adding umami and giving the salmon a beautiful color.
Step 5
Next, incorporate 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Olive oil helps keep the salmon moist during cooking and ensures the glaze coats the fish evenly.
Step 6
Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup for a touch of sweetness and a lovely sheen. If you don’t have maple syrup, you can easily substitute it with an equal amount of honey or sugar.
Step 7
Season with a pinch of salt and a pinch of black pepper, adjusting to your preference. If you want to highlight the salmon’s natural flavor, you can use a very small amount of salt or even omit it. Freshly ground black pepper adds a fragrant kick.
Step 8
Finally, add 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger, either grated or finely minced, to elevate the flavor profile. Ginger works wonders in removing any fishy odor and imparting an elegant aroma.
Step 9
Using a spoon or a small whisk, thoroughly mix all the ingredients in the bowl until well combined. Ensure the maple syrup or sugar is fully dissolved for a smooth glaze. A well-mixed glaze will result in a more flavorful salmon.
Step 10
Now it’s time to cook the salmon. Heat a pan over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets in the pan and pour the prepared soy glaze evenly over them. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the bottom side to cook. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your salmon.
Step 11
Once the bottom of the salmon is golden brown, carefully flip the fillets and cook the other side for another 5-7 minutes, still covered. The salmon is ready when the glaze has thickened slightly and coats the fish in a rich, deep pink or dark orange hue. Be mindful of the heat to prevent the glaze from burning.
Step 12
The finished soy-glazed salmon is a complete dish on its own. Today, we’ll enjoy it without rice or other side dishes, focusing purely on the exquisite taste of the salmon and the savory soy glaze. The combination of tender salmon and the sweet-salty glaze is simply divine.
Step 13
For a final touch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds over the salmon. This adds a lovely visual appeal and a nutty crunch. White or black sesame seeds both work wonderfully.
Step 14
Enjoy this wonderfully savory and slightly sweet soy-glazed salmon! It’s incredibly easy to make at home and makes for a fantastic meal. Enjoy this delicious dish with your loved ones!
