Name: Candied Salmon Recipe with Ginger
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 fillets salmon ((skin on or off, depending on your preference)); 1/4 cup soy sauce ((adds umami and saltiness)); 1 1/2 teaspoons liquid smoke ((for a smoky flavor)); 1/3 cup brown sugar ((provides sweetness and aids in caramelization)); 4 inches fresh ginger ((adds a warm, spicy kick)); 1 tablespoon oil ((for frying, vegetable, peanut, or coconut oil work well))

There’s something truly magical about the way flavors meld together in the kitchen, especially when it comes to fish. This Candied Salmon Recipe with Ginger is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a gourmet experience at home. The rich, buttery salmon pairs beautifully with a sweet glaze made from brown sugar and soy sauce, while the fresh ginger adds a punch of warmth and spice. Whether you’re serving it over a fresh salad, with rice, or on its own, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this Candied Salmon Recipe with Ginger lies in its simplicity and the harmony of its ingredients. The combination of soy sauce and brown sugar creates a luscious glaze that caramelizes beautifully when cooked, giving the salmon a stunning finish. The addition of liquid smoke infuses a subtle smokiness that enhances the fish’s natural flavor. Fresh ginger not only adds zing but also brings a healthful element to the dish, making it a perfect combination of taste and nutrition. This recipe is straightforward enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for special occasions.

Ingredient Breakdown

To create this mouthwatering Candied Salmon Recipe with Ginger, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 salmon fillets (skin on or off, depending on your preference)
1/4 cup soy sauce (adds umami and saltiness)
1 1/2 teaspoons liquid smoke (for a smoky flavor)
1/3 cup brown sugar (provides sweetness and aids in caramelization)
4-inch piece of fresh ginger (adds a warm, spicy kick)
1 tablespoon oil for frying (vegetable, peanut, or coconut oil work well)
Salt (to taste)
Pepper (to taste)

Tools of the Trade

Before diving into cooking, make sure you have the following tools handy:

Non-stick skillet (for easy cooking and cleanup)
Measuring cups and spoons (to ensure precise ingredient amounts)
Sharp knife (for slicing the ginger and salmon)
Mixing bowl (for combining the marinade)
Spatula (for flipping the salmon without breaking it)

Stepwise Method: Candied Salmon Recipe with Ginger

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, liquid smoke, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, creating a rich marinade.

Step 2: Slice the Ginger

Peel the fresh ginger and slice it thinly. You can also grate it if you prefer a more intense ginger flavor throughout the marinade.

Step 3: Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Add the sliced ginger on top. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet

In a non-stick skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough to prevent the salmon from sticking.

Step 5: Cook the Salmon

Remove the salmon from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place the fillets skin-side down (if skin is on) in the hot skillet. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.

Step 6: Flip and Glaze

Carefully flip the salmon fillets. Pour some of the remaining marinade over the top. Allow it to cook for another 4-5 minutes, basting occasionally, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the salmon is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Sprinkle with a little extra brown sugar for an added caramelized effect and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Make It Diet-Friendly

If you’re looking to adapt this Candied Salmon Recipe with Ginger to fit specific dietary needs, consider the following options:

Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to ensure a gluten-free dish.
Low Sugar: Substitute brown sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or coconut sugar.
Whole30/Paleo: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a Whole30-compliant version.
Low Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the salt content in the dish.

Chef’s Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice to the marinade.
Garnishing with sesame seeds or chopped scallions can elevate the presentation.
This recipe can be adjusted to include additional spices or herbs like garlic or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Feel free to experiment with different fish types if you’re feeling adventurous!

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your delicious Candied Salmon Recipe with Ginger fresh, follow these storage tips:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying out the salmon.
This recipe also freezes well; wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Questions People Ask

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating and cooking.

What can I serve with candied salmon?

This candied salmon pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If using skin-on fillets, the skin should also be crispy.

Hungry for More?

If you loved this Candied Salmon Recipe with Ginger, you’re in for a treat! Explore more delightful seafood recipes on the blog, from zesty lemon garlic shrimp to creamy clam chowder. Each recipe is crafted with simplicity and flavor in mind, ensuring that you can create mouthwatering meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Dive into the world of flavors and discover new favorites that will make your mealtime special.

The rich taste of this Candied Salmon Recipe with Ginger is sure to make it a standout dish in your culinary repertoire. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, it’s a recipe that not only satisfies the palate but also warms the heart. Enjoy your cooking adventure!