Spicy salmon is a mouthwatering dish that has gained immense popularity in recent years With its burst of flavors and colors, it has become a favorite appetizer or main course for many seafood lovers But what exactly goes into making this tasty salmon dish? In this article, I will provide a detailed breakdown of the ingredients that make up spicy salmon and how to perfectly prepare it at home.
The Star Ingredients of Spicy Salmon
The key components that give spicy salmon its signature taste include:
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Salmon – Fresh, raw salmon fillets are the star ingredient. Wild-caught varieties like sockeye and king salmon provide the best flavor. The salmon is cut into small 1/4 inch cubes.
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Spicy mayonnaise – A blend of regular mayo and sriracha or other hot sauce provides creaminess and heat. The spicy mayo coats the salmon cubes.
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Soy sauce – A splash of soy sauce contributes salty, umami depth.
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Toasted sesame oil – Just a drizzle of sesame oil gives nutty aroma.
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Green onions – Finely chopped green onions provide fresh onion zing.
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Sesame seeds – Toasted sesame seeds add crunch and rich sesame taste.
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Lime juice – Bright lime juice balances out the other flavors.
How to Make Perfect Spicy Salmon Step-By-Step
Follow these simple steps for making restaurant-quality spicy salmon at home:
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Make the spicy mayo sauce – Whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and soy sauce to taste. The mayo should have a noticeable spicy kick.
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Cut salmon into small cubes – Carefully slice wild salmon fillets into 1/4 inch pieces. This allows the sauce to coat well.
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Toss salmon with spicy mayo – Add the salmon to a bowl and gently mix with the spicy mayo until fully coated.
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Add remaining ingredients – Mix in the sesame oil, lime juice, green onions, and sesame seeds.
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Let flavors meld – Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, up to overnight.
And that’s all it takes! In just a few short steps, you have restaurant-quality spicy salmon ready to enjoy.
Creative Ways to Serve Spicy Salmon
This versatile protein can be served in many delicious ways:
- On top of sushi rolls
- In poke bowls
- Tacos or tostadas
- Salad topping
- Baked potatoes
- Eggs Benedict
- Pizza
- Lettuce wraps
- Sandwiches
No matter how you serve it up, spicy salmon always delivers a flavorful punch.
Tips for Making the Best Spicy Salmon
Follow these tips for spicy salmon success:
- Use sushi-grade salmon for raw preparations
- Make the mayo as spicy as you like
- Chop salmon into small, evenly-sized pieces
- Avoid over-mixing to keep salmon chunks intact
- Let chill before serving to allow flavors to meld
- Garnish with extra green onions and sesame seeds
- Serve with lime wedges for bright flavor
The Origins of Spicy Salmon
Spicy salmon was created by Japanese chefs who began experimenting with adding spicy mayonnaise and other seasonings to raw salmon. This gave the delicate salmon a flavor boost. The dish likely emerged in the 1950s or 60s as sushi began growing in popularity. The spicy salmon roll started appearing on sushi menus in the 1980s and became a staple. It remains a favorite today at sushi restaurants worldwide.
The Health Benefits of Salmon
Beyond being delicious, salmon provides many nutritional benefits:
- High in protein to support muscles
- Abundant in omega-3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation
- Excellent source of B vitamins like niacin, B6, and B12
- Loaded with minerals like potassium, selenium, and zinc
So you can feel good about enjoying this tasty salmon dish!
Make Spicy Salmon at Home Tonight
With a few simple ingredients and easy preparations steps, you can make restaurant-quality spicy salmon in your home kitchen. Top it on rice, tacos, salads, or enjoy on its own. The combination of creamy, spicy heat pairs perfectly with the savory salmon. Whip up a batch soon to enjoy this appetizing dish anytime.
Sushi Made Simple: Two Ways to Enjoy Spicy Salmon
FAQ
What is in spicy salmon?
Spicy salmon typically involves raw, diced salmon mixed with a spicy sauce, often incorporating mayonnaise, sriracha, and other seasonings like sesame oil and soy sauce.
What goes with spicy salmon?
Serve spicy salmon with
I love serving this harissa lime salmon with a side of bright veggies like sautéed asparagus or crispy lemon broccoli. You can also serve it with a side of Greek baked fries or over your favorite grain!
Is spicy tuna or spicy salmon healthier?
Salmon is higher in calories than tuna because it’s a fattier fish. Still, don’t let that keep you from enjoying it, as much of the fat comes from healthy omega-3s ( 5 , 6 ). Also, a serving of salmon provides more vitamin D than tuna does.
How do you make spicy salmon fillets?
Grind garlic, chile pepper, and olive oil together with a mortar and pestle. Add lime juice, mustard, salt, and black pepper; mix until a thick paste forms. Place salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish; coat with mustard paste. Bake in the preheated oven until salmon easily flakes with a fork, 12 to 15 minutes.