Unlock the Flavor of Pan-Seared Salmon
When it comes to cooking salmon, high heat is the key to achieving that perfect balance of crispy skin and tender flesh. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to unlock the flavor of this delicious fish using a few simple ingredients and a clever technique.
The Magic of Marinating
To start, you’ll need four skin-on salmon fillets, which will benefit from a quick marinating session with a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, orange zest, and juice. This sweet and savory blend will infuse the fish with an incredible depth of flavor, making it a standout dish for any occasion.
Sourcing the Best Salmon
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right type of salmon. Opt for wild or sustainably farmed salmon, and consult the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch guide for recommendations on the best varieties to buy. You can also check out our guide to types of salmon for more information.
A Recipe for Success
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 skin-on salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- Kosher salt
- 1 tbsp finely grated fresh ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp dark brown sugar
- Finely grated zest of 1 orange
- 2/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Cooking to Perfection
To begin, dry the salmon fillets thoroughly with paper towels and season with salt. Arrange them in a single layer in a baking dish and set aside. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ginger, garlic, brown sugar, orange zest and juice, soy sauce or tamari, and olive oil. Drizzle 3 tablespoons of this marinade over the salmon and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
Next, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan and set it aside. Preheat your broiler and position an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source. Place the salmon on a broiler pan skin-side up and cook for 3 minutes, or until the skin crisps. Flip the salmon over and cook for an additional 3 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
The Finishing Touches
While the salmon is cooking, bring the marinade to a boil in the saucepan and reduce the heat to medium. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and reduced by about a third. Transfer the cooked salmon to a warmed serving platter or individual plates, and pour the warm sauce over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Yield: 4 servings
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: 40 minutes (plus 20 minutes marinating time)
Active Time: 15 minutes
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