Get ready for a flavor explosion! This recipe combines the rich, smoky taste of salmon with the sweet and salty notes of brown sugar and soy sauce. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Let’s dive in and discover how to create this culinary masterpiece.
INGREDIENTS AND STEPS TO MAKE THE DISH
RECIPE INGREDIENTS
- 1 ½ lbs salmon fillet – plus olive oil, salt and pepper for seasoning
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 4 garlic cloves – minced
- 3 Tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup salted butter
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
STEPS TO MAKE BROWN SUGAR SOY SAUCE SALMON
STEP 1: Let the salmon rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes while you preheat the oven to 375°F.
STEP 2: In a saucepan, combine ½ cup soy sauce, ½ cup brown sugar, 4 minced garlic cloves, 3 Tbsp lemon juice, ¼ cup salted butter, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp ground black pepper. Heat over medium-high, simmering for 2-3 minutes until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
STEP 3: Place the salmon skin side down on a large dish or baking sheet. Brush the top with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
STEP 4: Pour the prepared sauce over the salmon and cover the dish with foil. Bake for 10-25 minutes, adjusting based on the salmon’s size. For a caramelized finish, remove the foil and broil for the last 2-3 minutes, if desired.
STEP 5: Transfer the salmon to a serving plate. Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped green onion and drizzle the extra sauce from the pan over rice or pasta.
IS IT BETTER TO BAKE OR PAN FRY SALMON?
Whether you prefer your salmon with moist, tender flesh or crispy skin, there’s a cooking method that suits your taste. For a foolproof way to prevent dryness, wrapping the salmon in foil and baking it in the oven is a great choice. If you’re craving a crispy exterior, pan-frying is the way to go.
HOW LONG TO BAKE SALMON IN THE OVEN
The cooking time depends on the thickness of the filet. For an exceptionally thin filet, it might be done in as little as 10 minutes. Conversely, a very thick filet could take up to 25 minutes to cook.
HOW DO I KNOW IF IT IS COOKED?
Cooked salmon should flake easily. To test this, gently press down on the salmon with a fork—if it flakes apart easily, it’s done. Alternatively, you can use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature. The FDA recommends that cooked salmon reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
WHAT DO YOU EAT IT WITH?
This recipe complements a variety of side dishes beautifully. It pairs perfectly with most light and savory starches or vegetables. I avoid serving it with sweeter sides, like honey-glazed carrots, to prevent an overload of sweet flavors. It works exceptionally well with these savory options:
- Broccoli Cranberry Salad
- Tomato Cucumber Salad
- Soda Bread
CONCLUSION
There you have it – a simple yet incredibly flavorful way to enjoy salmon. By combining the richness of brown sugar with the savory umami of soy sauce, this recipe creates a truly unforgettable dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, give it a try and savor the delicious results.
