Soy Poached Salmon is a delightful dish originating from the culinary expertise of Michael Johnson, known for its simplicity and exquisite flavors. Ideal for dinner parties, this recipe has garnered praise for its ability to impress guests while remaining easy to prepare. It pairs beautifully with sides like rice pilaf, asparagus, and rolls, making it a versatile centerpiece for any gathering.
Recipe Details
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Recipe Category: Healthy
- Keywords: < 30 Mins, Stove Top
- Aggregated Rating: 4 (from 2 reviews)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 497.8
- Total Fat: 7.2g
- Saturated Fat: 1.1g
- Cholesterol: 88.7mg
- Sodium: 7274.4mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 63.5g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 43.4g
- Protein: 46.5g
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 3/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
- 2 slices ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon star anise
- 1 1/2 – 2 cups water (enough to almost cover the fillets)
- Chives or scallions, for garnish
Instructions
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Prepare the Poaching Liquid: In a 12-inch sauté pan with a lid, combine the low sodium soy sauce, dark brown sugar, ginger slices, and star anise. This aromatic mixture forms the flavorful base for poaching the salmon.
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Bring to a Simmer: Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the liquid to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. This ensures that the salmon cooks gently and absorbs the flavors without overcooking.
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Poach the Salmon: Carefully add the salmon fillets to the pan, skin side down. The liquid should almost cover the fillets. Slosh some of the liquid over the fillets and cover the pan with the lid. Allow the salmon to poach for 6 to 8 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should be medium-rare in the center, perfectly tender and moist.
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Keep Warm: Once the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness, carefully remove the fillets from the pan and set them aside, keeping them warm.
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Reduce the Sauce: Increase the heat under the pan and bring the poaching liquid to a boil. Let it boil until it reduces by half, becoming slightly syrupy in consistency. This reduction intensifies the flavors, creating a rich sauce to complement the salmon.
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Plate and Serve: Spoon a portion of the reduced sauce onto each serving plate. Place a salmon fillet on top of the sauce. Drizzle a little more sauce over the fillets for added flavor. Garnish each plate with freshly chopped chives or scallions for a touch of freshness and color.
Tips for Success
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Choosing Salmon: Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets with firm flesh and a vibrant color.
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Poaching Technique: Keep the poaching liquid at a gentle simmer to prevent the salmon from overcooking. This ensures that the salmon remains tender and juicy.
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Sauce Consistency: Monitor the reduction of the sauce closely to achieve the desired syrupy consistency. This concentrated sauce enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
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Side Dishes: Serve the Soy Poached Salmon with a side of fragrant rice pilaf to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed asparagus or a crisp salad adds freshness and complements the richness of the salmon.
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Beverage Pairing: Pair this dish with a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp, chilled sake for a well-rounded dining experience.
Final Thoughts
Soy Poached Salmon is not only a testament to simplicity in cooking but also a celebration of flavors. From its savory soy base to the delicate poaching of the salmon, each element is crafted to deliver a memorable dining experience. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to delight with its balance of taste and nutritional benefits. Enjoy the journey of creating this dish and savor the joy it brings to your table.
