You know, there’s something magical about salmon—it’s like the ocean’s gift that keeps on giving. Slather it with a brown sugar glaze, and it’s like a little party on your tastebuds. I once made this during a power outage, with just a candle for light, and the sweet aroma mixed with the sound of rain was unforgettable.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and position the rack to the highest setting. Prepare a broiler pan by spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared pan, ensuring they are skin-side down. Season the top of the fillets with salt and ground black pepper to taste.
- In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of packed brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard. Mix well until the ingredients are fully integrated.
- Evenly distribute the brown sugar and mustard mixture over the top of the salmon fillets, making sure they are well-coated.
- Place the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Afterward, switch the oven to the broil setting.
- Move the salmon to the top rack and broil for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, watching carefully until the glaze is caramelized and the salmon is cooked through.
- Once done, remove the salmon from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your deliciously glazed salmon!
Ingredients
- ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 4 boneless salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
FAQ
- Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar for the glaze?
- Yes, you can use either light or dark brown sugar for the glaze. Dark brown sugar contains more molasses, which will add a richer flavor to the glaze.
- What type of mustard is best for this recipe?
- The recipe calls for Dijon mustard, which is creamy and adds a nice flavor to the glaze. However, you can also use whole grain mustard if you prefer a grainier texture.
- What is the best wine to serve with brown sugar glazed salmon?
- Generally, a full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay pairs well with salmon. However, the best pairing is subjective, so choose a wine that you enjoy.
- How can I tell when the salmon is done cooking?
- The salmon is fully cooked when the meat is a consistent solid pink color in the center. Keep in mind that the fish will continue to cook for a few minutes after being removed from the heat.
- Can I prepare this dish using an air fryer?
- Yes, you can make this salmon in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F, place the salmon fillets in the basket, and pour the glaze over them. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until done, checking along the way to ensure proper cooking.
Tips
- Use either light or dark brown sugar for the glaze; dark brown sugar will add a richer molasses flavor.
- For optimal caramelization, cook the salmon at 425°F for 10 minutes, then switch to broil for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- If using an air fryer, preheat to 400°F and cook for 5-7 minutes, checking periodically as cooking times can vary.
- To check if the salmon is done, look for a solid pink color throughout the center, keeping in mind it will continue to cook slightly after removal from the heat.
Equipment
- Broiler Pan – Essential for cooking the salmon in the oven, allowing proper heat circulation and caramelization.
- Air Fryer – If you choose to cook the salmon using an air fryer, this equipment might be needed.
- Glass Mixing Bowls – Useful for mixing the brown sugar glaze, especially if you prefer glass over other materials for aesthetic or functional reasons.
