Angie’s Sweet & Wild Bourbon-Grilled Salmon
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, then Angie’s Sweet & Wild Bourbon-Grilled Salmon will become your new favorite go-to recipe. This delightful dish combines the smoky richness of bourbon with the natural sweetness of a citrusy sauce, creating a balanced and flavorful glaze that pairs perfectly with wild-caught salmon. This recipe is incredibly versatile; the salmon can be grilled to perfection with just a hint of char, then topped with a homemade bourbon sauce that’s sure to wow your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just preparing a weeknight meal, this dish will impress everyone around the table.
Preparation Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (includes marinating time)
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 2
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salmon fillets | 2 |
| Brown sugar | 4 tablespoons |
| Fresh lemon juice | 4 tablespoons |
| Bourbon | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Cornstarch | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Water | 3/4 cup |
| Bourbon | 3 tablespoons |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Brown sugar | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 616.5 kcal |
| Total Fat | 16.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 180.6 mg |
| Sodium | 267.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 38.5 g |
| Fiber | 0.2 g |
| Sugars | 34.3 g |
| Protein | 63.9 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Marinade:
Start by placing the salmon fillets in a large plastic zipper bag. In the same bag, add the brown sugar, fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of bourbon, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Seal the bag and gently massage the ingredients to coat the fish evenly. Allow the salmon to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. This marinating time allows the flavors to fully infuse into the salmon, creating a deliciously tender and flavorful result. -
Make the Bourbon Sauce:
While your salmon is marinating, it’s time to prepare the sweet and savory sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the remaining 3/4 cup of water, 3 tablespoons of bourbon, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of cornstarch. Place the pan over medium heat and whisk the mixture constantly until the sauce begins to thicken. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it thickens to a syrup-like consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter until it’s fully melted. Set the sauce aside. -
Grill the Salmon:
Once the salmon has marinated and your sauce is ready, it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Discard the marinade from the salmon fillets, as it has done its job in tenderizing and flavoring the fish. Place the salmon fillets on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. -
Serve:
Once your salmon is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a plate. Spoon the bourbon sauce generously over the top of the fish. The sauce will not only add a glossy finish but also enhance the smoky sweetness of the grilled salmon. -
Enjoy:
Serve your Sweet & Wild Bourbon-Grilled Salmon with your favorite side dishes, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. The citrusy, sweet, and slightly smoky flavor profile will have everyone asking for seconds!
Pro Tips:
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Choosing the Right Salmon: This recipe is best made with wild-caught salmon, as it has a deeper, richer flavor that pairs wonderfully with the bourbon sauce. If you must use farmed salmon, the taste will be slightly different, but still delicious.
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Bourbon Selection: Choose a good-quality bourbon, such as Knob Creek or Maker’s Mark, for the best flavor. The bourbon is a key ingredient in this recipe, so don’t skimp on quality.
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Grilling Tip: To ensure your salmon doesn’t stick to the grill, lightly oil the grill grates before placing the fillets on the grill. Also, if you’re using a skin-on fillet, grilling with the skin side down first can help prevent the fish from falling apart.
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Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a fresh cucumber salad. If you’re serving it for a special occasion, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine or a light beer.
Angie’s Sweet & Wild Bourbon-Grilled Salmon is a flavorful and sophisticated dish that can be made at home with just a few ingredients and simple steps. The sweet bourbon glaze complements the wild salmon perfectly, making this recipe a great choice for a quick yet impressive meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or just craving a delicious meal, this recipe will not disappoint. Enjoy the delicious combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors that will make every bite a mouthwatering experience.
