Asian Glazed Salmon
If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that will impress your family and friends without taking hours in the kitchen, look no further than this Asian Glazed Salmon. With its sweet and savory glaze, this dish is a delightful fusion of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Asia. The combination of brown sugar, soy sauce, and fresh ginger creates a tantalizing sauce that perfectly complements the rich, buttery salmon. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is accessible and sure to become a favorite in your household.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What makes this Asian Glazed Salmon truly special is the balance of flavors. The sweetness of the brown sugar harmonizes beautifully with the salty depth of the soy sauce and the aromatic zing of fresh ginger. Additionally, the hint of heat from the red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of kick. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion. The glaze can be made ahead of time, and the salmon cooks in mere minutes, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 2 pounds boneless skinless salmon (about 4 smaller fillets)
- 1 cup lightly packed brown sugar
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons peeled and grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- Red pepper flakes to taste
Equipment at a Glance
- Medium saucepan: For preparing the glaze.
- Whisk: To mix the glaze ingredients together smoothly.
- Baking sheet: For roasting the salmon in the oven.
- Parchment paper: Optional, for easy cleanup.
- Spatula: To flip the salmon if necessary.
Stepwise Method: Asian Glazed Salmon
Step 1: Prepare the Glaze
Start by combining the brown sugar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, grated ginger, lime juice, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes in a medium saucepan. Whisk the ingredients together over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved, and the mixture is slightly thickened. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help caramelize the glaze on the salmon, giving it a beautiful finish.
Step 3: Prepare the Salmon
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down.
Step 4: Glaze the Salmon
Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat the top of each salmon fillet with the prepared glaze. Reserve some glaze for basting during cooking if you desire extra flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. For an extra caramelized finish, you can broil the salmon for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the Asian Glazed Salmon with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables, drizzling any extra glaze over the top for an added punch of flavor.
Quick Replacement Ideas
- Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweet flavor.
- Replace hoisin sauce with teriyaki sauce if unavailable.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Substitute lemon juice for lime juice for a different citrus note.
Errors to Dodge
- Overcooking the salmon: Keep an eye on the salmon and check for doneness to prevent it from drying out.
- Not reserving enough glaze: Make sure you set aside some glaze before coating the salmon for additional basting or drizzling.
- Using low-quality soy sauce: A good-quality soy sauce will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Skipping the resting time: Allow the salmon to rest after baking to retain its moisture.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
If you want to prepare this Asian Glazed Salmon in advance, you can freeze the salmon fillets with the glaze. Simply place the glazed salmon in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This makes for an easy and delicious meal on busy nights!
Asian Glazed Salmon FAQs
Can I use skin-on salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on salmon fillets! Just make sure to cook the salmon skin-side down and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed. The skin will help keep the fish moist.
What can I serve with Asian Glazed Salmon?
This salmon pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, sautéed bok choy, or a fresh cucumber salad. You can also serve it with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it slightly before using it to glaze the salmon.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This Asian Glazed Salmon is perfect for meal prep. Just portion out the cooked salmon with your choice of sides, and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Our Most-Loved Recipes
In Closing
This Asian Glazed Salmon recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together the best of Asian flavors in a simple, elegant dish. The combination of sweet and savory notes, along with the ease of preparation, makes it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a taste of Asia right in your own kitchen!
Asian Glazed Salmon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by combining the brown sugar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, grated ginger, lime juice, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes in a medium saucepan. Whisk the ingredients together over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved, and the mixture is slightly thickened. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help caramelize the glaze on the salmon, giving it a beautiful finish.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down.
- Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat the top of each salmon fillet with the prepared glaze. Reserve some glaze for basting during cooking if you desire extra flavor.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. For an extra caramelized finish, you can broil the salmon for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end.
- Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the Asian Glazed Salmon with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables, drizzling any extra glaze over the top for an added punch of flavor.
Notes
- Maple syrup can be used instead of brown sugar for a different flavor.
- Hoisin sauce may be replaced with teriyaki sauce if necessary.
- This recipe is freezer-friendly; store glazed salmon for up to 3 months.
