Brown Sugar Soy Sauce Salmon

This Brown Sugar Soy Sauce Salmon recipe is a delightful fusion of Asian-inspired flavors with the richness of brown sugar, creating a dish that is both sweet and savory. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and lemon juice infuses the salmon with a deep, umami flavor, while the brown sugar adds a caramelized glaze that enhances the natural sweetness of the fish. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of flavors and textures, making it a great choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The cultural significance of this dish lies in its blend of traditional Asian ingredients with modern Western cooking techniques, reflecting the diverse culinary influences found in contemporary cuisine.

Ingredients

  • 1½ lbs salmon fillet
  • ½ cup soy sauce
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • ¼ cup salted butter
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. : Let the salmon sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Make the Glaze: In a saucepan, combine ½ cup soy sauce, ½ cup brown sugar, 4 minced garlic cloves, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, ¼ cup salted butter, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper. Heat over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  3. Season the Salmon: Place the salmon in a large dish or baking sheet, skin side down. Brush the top with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Apply the Glaze: Pour the prepared glaze over the salmon, ensuring it is evenly coated. Cover the dish with foil.
  5. Bake the Salmon: Bake for 10-25 minutes, depending on the size of the salmon. Remove the foil and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes if desired to caramelize the top.
  6. Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a minute. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve with the extra sauce drizzled over rice or pasta.

Top Tips

  • Marinating: For enhanced flavor, marinate the salmon in the glaze for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.
  • Temperature Control: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  • Caramelization: Broiling the salmon for a few minutes at the end can add a nice caramelized crust.
  • Sauce Utilization: Use the leftover glaze as a sauce for other dishes like rice or roasted vegetables.
  • Salmon Selection: Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture.
  • Customization: Adjust the amount of garlic or lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.

Variations

  • Honey Addition: Replace ¼ cup of the brown sugar with honey for a slightly sweeter glaze.
  • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
  • Herbal Infusion: Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the glaze for added freshness.
  • Asian-Inspired Sides: Serve with steamed edamame or kimchi for a more authentic Asian-inspired meal.
  • Grilled Option: Grill the salmon instead of baking for a smoky flavor.
  • Lemon Zest: Add some grated lemon zest to the glaze for extra citrus flavor.

Nutritional Guide

Servings Calories Fat Carbohydrates Protein
6 420 24g 20g 35g

Additional nutritional notes: This recipe is relatively balanced, offering a good mix of protein from the salmon, healthy fats from the butter and olive oil, and some carbohydrates from the brown sugar. The soy sauce adds a high sodium content, so it’s advisable to use low-sodium options if possible. The dish is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, which are beneficial for heart health.

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