Alder Planked Salmon With Soy Ginger Marinade

Alder Planked Salmon with Soy Ginger Marinade is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the natural smokiness of alder wood planks with the savory and slightly sweet flavors of a soy ginger marinade. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the information you requested:

What is it?
Alder Planked Salmon is a method of cooking salmon where the fish is placed on a wooden plank, traditionally made from alder wood, and then grilled or roasted. The salmon is marinated in a flavorful mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other seasonings before being cooked on the plank, imparting a unique smoky taste to the fish.

History:
The use of wooden planks for cooking, especially with salmon, has a long history among indigenous peoples in the Pacific Northwest of North America. It’s a method that dates back centuries and is closely associated with Native American and First Nations culinary traditions. The use of alder wood, in particular, is known for its mild smoky flavor, making it a natural choice for this cooking technique.

Components:
To make Alder Planked Salmon with Soy Ginger Marinade, you’ll need the following components:

Ingredients:

• Salmon fillets (typically around 6-8 ounces each)
• Alder wood planks (food-grade, soaked in water)
• Soy sauce
• Fresh ginger (minced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Brown sugar (or honey)
• Sesame oil
• Green onions (chopped, for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for some heat

Steps to Prepare:

1. Soak the Alder Wood Planks: Begin by soaking the alder wood planks in water for at least 1-2 hours. This prevents them from catching fire during cooking.

2. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, minced ginger, minced garlic, brown sugar (or honey), sesame oil, and optional red pepper flakes if you want some heat. This marinade will infuse the salmon with rich flavors.

3. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the salmon is well-coated with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

4. Preheat the Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill or oven to around 350-375°F (175-190°C).

5. Place Salmon on Planks: Remove the salmon from the marinade and place it skin-side down on the soaked alder wood planks. Discard the marinade.

6. Grill or Roast: Place the planks with salmon on the grill grates or in the oven. Close the grill lid or oven door. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has a slightly smoky flavor.

7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the salmon from the planks, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, and serve hot. The wood plank imparts a subtle smoky aroma to the fish, enhancing its flavor.

Time Needed to Prepare:

• Soaking the planks: 1-2 hours
• Marinating the salmon: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 15-20 minutes

In total, you can expect to spend around 2.5 to 3.5 hours from prep to serving, depending on the soaking time for the planks and the cooking method used. It’s a delightful dish that’s well worth the effort! Enjoy your Alder Planked Salmon with Soy Ginger Marinade.

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Alder Planked Salmon with Soy Ginger Marinade:

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate values):

• Calories: 350-400 kcal (depending on serving size and specific ingredients used)
• Protein: 35-40 grams
• Fat: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
• Fiber: 0-1 gram
• Sugars: 6-8 grams
• Sodium: 800-1000 mg (varies with soy sauce and other seasonings)

Health Information:

1. High Protein: Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and overall health.

2. Healthy Fats: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA. These fatty acids are beneficial for heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting brain function.

3. Low in Carbohydrates: This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb or keto diets.

4. Moderate Calories: The calorie content is moderate, making it a satisfying meal without excessive calorie intake.

5. Sodium Content: The sodium content can vary depending on the amount of soy sauce and other seasonings used. It’s advisable to use low-sodium soy sauce if you are concerned about sodium intake.

6. Nutrient-Rich: Salmon is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium.

7. Heart Health: The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon are associated with heart-protective benefits, including lowering the risk of heart disease.

8. Anti-Inflammatory: The combination of ginger and garlic in the marinade provides anti-inflammatory properties.

9. Balanced Meal: When served with a variety of vegetables, Alder Planked Salmon can be part of a balanced and nutritious meal.

10. Gluten-Free Option: If you use gluten-free soy sauce, this dish can be suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Remember that the actual nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It’s a generally healthy and nutritious dish, especially when prepared with a focus on using high-quality ingredients and moderation in the marinade components.