Miso Maple Glazed Salmon

This Miso Maple Glazed Salmon strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors. The combination of umami-rich miso paste and the natural sweetness of maple syrup creates a glaze that coats the salmon with a tantalizing caramelized crust. Each bite delivers a delightful burst of contrasting tastes, making this dish an absolute crowd-pleaser. In addition, this salmon recipe is so quick and easy to prepare. It’s a perfect dish for any weeknight and is great for meal prep.

LET’S TALK SALMON

Typically, Faroe Island salmon is my go-to when creating salmon recipes. The fat lines in this salmon make it difficult to overcook, and become dry.

This type of salmon is farm-raised using sustainable aquaculture practices. However, it is raised in a contained area of the salmon’s natural habitat. The Faroe Islands have strict regulations in place to ensure the well-being of the fish and minimize environmental impact.

Wild-caught salmon is harvested from their natural habitats, where they roam freely and feed on natural food sources.If you are looking for a sustainable, wild-caught salmon alternative to Faroe Island, King (Chinook) salmon is a great choice.

Flavor Profile and Texture

Faroe Island Salmon is known for its rich and fatty texture, offering a buttery and tender mouthfeel. It has a milder flavor compared to some wild-caught salmon varieties. On the other hand, the flavor and texture of wild-caught salmon can vary depending on the species and its environment. It tends to have a more robust flavor and firmer texture due to its natural diet and active lifestyle.

Both Faroe Island Salmon and wild-caught salmon are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function. The specific levels may differ depending on the species, diet, and environmental factors.

Salmon Substitutes

• Arctic Char is another viable substitute for salmon. It is a cold-water fish with a flavor profile reminiscent of a cross between salmon and trout. It has a rich and buttery texture and can be cooked in a variety of ways.
• For vegetarian or vegan options, seitan or tofu can be used as substitutes for salmon. These plant-based alternatives can be marinated and cooked to mimic the texture and flavors of fish. However, it’s important to note that the taste and texture will differ from actual salmon. Be sure to check out my recipe for Miso Glazed Vegan Scallops!
• Chicken can also be a great alternative. It’s important to note that it won’t provide the same flavor or nutritional composition. However, chicken’s versatility, affordability, and widespread availability make it an excellent choice for those seeking a substitute for salmon in various recipes and dietary preferences.

Hungry for More?

If you love this recipe, be sure to check out some of my other favorite salmon recipes!

• Blackened Salmon Rice Bowl
• Phyllo Wrapped Spinach Salmon
• Creamy Tuscan Salmon
• Salmon Steamed in Parchment

WHAT IS MISO PASTE?

At the heart of this salmon recipe lies the secret ingredient, miso paste. Miso paste is a traditional Asian ingredient made from fermented soybeans, grains (such as rice or barley), salt, and a type of fungus called koji. It is known for its distinct umami flavor and is a versatile ingredient used in a wide range of Asian and non-Asian dishes. Miso paste comes in different varieties, with white miso and red miso being two commonly found types.

The choice between white and red miso depends on the desired flavor profile and the specific dish being prepared. Both types offer unique characteristics that can elevate the taste of a wide range of dishes, providing a delightful umami boost to your culinary creations.

White miso, given its mild flavor, is often used in miso soup, salad dressings, and marinades for seafood or light proteins. It also blends well with dairy products, making it suitable for creamy sauces or spreads.

Red miso’s robust flavor makes it ideal for hearty soups, rich broths, and savory sauces. It adds depth and complexity to braised dishes, glazes, and roasted vegetables. Red miso is great in small quantities to enhance the umami taste in vegetarian or vegan dishes.

TIPS ON MAKING THE BEST MISO MAPLE GLAZED SALMON

Honestly, this recipe for Miso Maple Glazed Salmon could not be easier. Here are a few tips and acceptable substitutes:

1. Choose high-quality salmon fillets for the best results.
2. Pat the salmon filets dry prior to seasoning and brushing on the glaze.
3. Allow the salmon to “marinate” in the glaze as the oven is preheating.
4. Feel free to marinate the salmon longer for more pronounced flavor.
5. If miso paste is not readily available, you can find it in the Asian section of most grocery stores or at specialty Asian markets.
6. Use “real” maple syrup.
7. Substitute honey for the maple syrup.
8. Coconut aminos are a great alternative to soy sauce.
9. Add fresh ginger and minced garlic to the miso mixture, if you prefer.
10. Adjust the sweetness and saltiness of the glaze to suit your personal taste preferences.
11. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the salmon fillets. Thicker cuts may require slightly longer cooking times.
12. Baking is an alternative to broiling. Bake at 400° for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon. Broil for a minute or two at the end to caramelize the glaze.
13. Garnish your plated dish with sesame seeds and fresh herbs, such as cilantro, parsley or green onions, to add a touch of freshness and visual appeal.

AIR FRYER MAPLE GLAZED SALMON

Air frying salmon provides a convenient and healthier cooking option while still delivering a crispy and flavorful result:

• Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Lightly grease the air fryer basket or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Place the seasoned and glazed salmon fillets in a single layer, leaving some space between each fillet for proper air circulation.
• Cook the salmon in the preheated air fryer for about 8 to 12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

HOW TO SERVE MISO MAPLE GLAZED SALMON

Pairing the flavorful and savory Miso Maple Glazed Salmon with complimentary side dishes can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Here are some side dish options that would work well with this easy quick and easy weeknight meal:

• steamed white or brown rice
• roasted or steamed vegetables
• sautéed greens
• Asian slaw
• grilled asparagus

STORING LEFTOVER SALMON

Properly storing leftover Maple Glazed Salmon is essential to maintain its quality and ensure food safety. Once cooled, transfer the leftover salmon to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Place the container of leftover Miso Salmon in the refrigerator promptly, preferably within two hours of cooking. Consume within 2-3 days. However, it is always best to rely on your senses and discard the salmon if it shows any signs of spoilage, such as an off odor, slimy texture, or unusual coloration.

Reheat the prepared salmon gently, and at a low temperature in the oven or on stovetop, to avoid drying it out.

You can freeze the leftover Maple Glazed Salmon. Before freezing, ensure that the salmon has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Freeze up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

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