Introduction
Craving a flavorful, rich, and perfectly smoked salmon? This Smoked Salmon Recipe will guide you through the simple steps of preparing your salmon, creating the perfect dry rub for smoked salmon, and smoking it to perfection. Whether you’re using a grill, smoker, or an oven, this recipe will be your go-to for making delicious smoked salmon at home!
Ingredients for Smoked Salmon
To create the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 large fillet of fresh salmon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons sea salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
This simple yet flavorful smoked salmon rub recipe will enhance the natural taste of the salmon without overpowering it.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will serve as your dry rub for salmon. - Apply the Dry Rub:
Generously apply the dry rub to the salmon fillet, ensuring it’s coated evenly. Let the salmon sit in the fridge for 2-4 hours to allow the flavors to infuse. - Smoke the Salmon:
Set your smoker to 225°F (107°C) and place the salmon directly on the grill grates. Smoke for 2-3 hours until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). - Serve and Enjoy:
Once smoked, let the salmon rest for 10 minutes. Serve with your favorite sides, or slice thinly for salads and sandwiches
Best Rub for Smoked Salmon:
The best rub for smoking salmon is a balance of sweetness from the brown sugar and a little spice from black pepper and smoked paprika. This blend highlights the salmon’s natural flavors without overpowering them.
Variations
If you prefer a more savory flavor, you can skip the brown sugar and opt for more herbs or spices like dill or lemon zest in your salmon rub for smoking. Another great option is the grilled salmon spice rub, which adds a zesty kick to your smoked salmon.