Salmon is one of the most popular and nutritious fish available. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high quality protein, and various vitamins and minerals, salmon can be a delicious and healthy addition to any diet. While salmon fillets from the supermarket can be quick and convenient, consider seeking out fresh wild salmon for maximum flavor and nutrition. Wild salmon, especially from inland markets, often has superior texture and taste compared to farmed Atlantic salmon. When combined with a simple yet flavorful bourbon marinade, inland market wild salmon makes for an easy, elegant meal.
Benefits of Wild Inland Salmon
Wild inland salmon live in the rivers and tributaries of the Pacific Northwest region of North America. Swimming upstream against currents to spawn and then back downstream to the ocean, these incredible fish get a full body workout that develops firm, fat-streaked flesh with superb flavor. Here are some of the top benefits of cooking wild inland salmon:
- Higher omega-3 fatty acids than farmed salmon due to natural, diverse diet
- Great source of protein, B vitamins, selenium, potassium, and antioxidants
- Lower likelihood of contaminants compared to farmed salmon
- Red or pink hue from natural astaxanthin, an antioxidant
- More texture and fuller salmon flavor from swimming upstream
- Sustainable wild populations with responsible fishing practices
When buying wild salmon, look for bright red or orange-pink flesh without bruising or discoloration. Smell the salmon for a fresh, clean scent without fishiness or off odors. Wild salmon has a firmer texture and less visible fat compared to farmed.
Marinating Salmon in Bourbon
A quick bourbon marinade infuses salmon with sweet, smoky flavor. Bourbon is an American whiskey made primarily from corn that has been aged in charred oak barrels. This gives bourbon hints of vanilla, caramel, and smoke that complement salmon perfectly.
Bourbon also contains sugars that caramelize into a glaze when salmon is cooked. The alcohol helps tenderize and moisturize the fish. Combined with brown sugar, soy sauce, mustard, and spices, bourbon makes a marinade that boosts salmon flavor and juiciness in just 30 minutes or less.
Marinade Ingredients
- 1⁄4 cup bourbon
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1⁄2 teaspoon paprika
Whisk together all marinade ingredients until the sugar fully dissolves. Place salmon fillets skin-side down in a shallow baking dish and pour the marinade over the top. Flip and coat the fish evenly, cover, and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes. Turn the fillets halfway through marinating.
Cooking Methods for Bourbon Salmon
This versatile bourbon marinade suits any cooking method for salmon. Adjust cook times as needed for thicker or thinner fillets.
Baked Bourbon Salmon
Preheat oven to 400°F. Place marinated salmon skin-side down on a foil-lined baking sheet. Reserve excess marinade.
Bake 10-12 minutes until salmon flakes easily with a fork. Baste with reserved marinade halfway through baking. Discard leftover marinade. Serve salmon warm.
Grilled Bourbon Salmon
Preheat a lightly oiled grill over medium-high heat. Place marinated salmon skin-side down. Grill about 4 minutes per side, basting with marinade while cooking. Grill until salmon reaches desired doneness, flakes easily, and develops nice grill marks.
Pan Seared Bourbon Salmon
Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated salmon skin-side up and cook 4-5 minutes until browned. Flip and cook another 3 minutes until just cooked through. Baste with marinade and serve.
Side Dishes for Bourbon Salmon
Bourbon salmon pairs deliciously with various sides, including:
- Roasted or mashed potatoes
- Seasonal roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli
- Wild rice pilaf or quinoa
- Sautéed or roasted carrots
- Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
For something more decadent, try bourbon salmon with cheesy polenta or garlic mashed potatoes. A lemon or dill yogurt sauce also complements the fish nicely.
Serving Suggestions
Bourbon salmon makes a wonderful entree for entertaining or a special family dinner. Here are some serving suggestions:
- For appetizers, smoked salmon on crostini points or crackers
- Let guests help themselves buffet-style with all components in serving dishes
- Make individual plates in the kitchen for a more elegant presentation
- Offer a choice of two side dishes and let diners select their preference
- Set out lemon wedges, fresh dill, capers, and extra virgin olive oil for toppings
- Round out the meal with a simple green salad and crusty bread
Serve bourbon glazed salmon with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a Wheat Ale. For dessert, a fruit cobbler or sorbet makes a nice light finish. Most importantly, let the salmon be the star and keep the sides simple.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Properly stored, leftover bourbon salmon will keep 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Here are some tips for storing and reheating:
- Allow cooked salmon to cool completely before covering tightly and refrigerating
- Place in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag
- Use leftovers within 3 days for best quality
- Reheat gently in a skillet with a little oil or butter until warmed through
- Alternatively, microwave on half power until heated through
- Take care not to overcook the fish when reheating
- Flake into salads, stir into pasta, or serve on toasted bread for quick meals
Conclusion
Treating yourself to inland market wild salmon is worth the splurge. A simple bourbon marinade adds sweet, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the salmon’s rich taste and supple texture. Bake, grill, or pan sear for a quick yet impressive main course. Serve with fresh seasonal sides and enjoy this special sustainable seafood. Leftover bourbon salmon also makes easy meals for lunch or dinner later in the week.
Quick Answers to Common Questions about Cooking Bourbon Salmon
Is wild or farmed salmon better?
Wild salmon generally has more omega-3s, antioxidants, and flavor compared to farmed. Opt for wild inland salmon when you can.
How long does salmon marinate in bourbon?
Only 15-30 minutes is needed for the bourbon to flavor and tenderize the salmon. Don’t over-marinate or the texture may become too soft.
What’s the best way to cook salmon?
Baking, grilling, broiling, and pan searing are all great cooking methods that result in moist, flavorful salmon. Adjust cook times as needed based on thickness.What do you serve with bourbon salmon?
Buttery potatoes, rice pilaf, roasted veggies, or salad pair nicely with bourbon salmon. Bread and a crisp white wine make good accompaniments.
How do you know when salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the inner color is opaque. Take care not to overcook or it may become dry.
Can you freeze salmon after marinating in bourbon?
For food safety, it’s best to cook salmon after marinating instead of freezing. The bourbon marinade does not preserve the fish for long term storage.
How long does leftover salmon keep?
Store cooked salmon up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently or flake into other dishes. Discard if fishy odor develops.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Wild salmon fillets | 4 fillets (about 6 ounces each) |
| Bourbon | 1/4 cup |
| Brown sugar | 3 tablespoons |
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tablespoon |
| Minced garlic | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cooking Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Baked | Bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes until flaky |
| Grilled | Grill 4 minutes per side over medium-high heat |
| Pan seared | Cook skin-side up 4-5 minutes, flip and cook 3 more minutes |