How to Microwave Salmon Without Smell: A Complete Guide

Microwaving salmon is a quick and easy way to cook this nutritious fish. However, it can sometimes leave behind a strong lingering fishy odor that many find unappealing. The good news is with the right techniques, you can enjoy microwave-cooked salmon without the unwanted smell.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share tips, tricks and step-by-step instructions to help you microwave salmon without leaving any aroma behind.

Why Does Salmon Smell When Microwaved?

Before jumping into solutions, let’s first understand why salmon emits a smell during microwaving.

The fishy odor primarily comes from two compounds found in salmon

• Amino acids like cysteine and methionine
• Polyunsaturated fats like omega-3 fatty acids

When heated, these compounds break down and release volatile, smelly molecules into the air.

Additionally, the confined space of the microwave oven traps steam and odor molecules. This concentrates the smell, making it more perceptible.

Fatty salmon varieties like Atlantic salmon contain higher levels of these compounds So they tend to smell more when cooked Leaner options like sockeye and coho salmon produce less odor,

Choosing the Right Salmon

Selecting the right type of salmon fillet is the first step to odorless microwaved fish.

I recommend choosing:

• Fresh, sushi-grade salmon whenever possible. Frozen salmon works too but may have more smell.
• Leaner varieties like sockeye, coho or wild-caught salmon. They have less fat than farmed Atlantic salmon so generate less smell.
• Smaller, uniform-sized fillets that cook evenly in the microwave.

Inspect the raw salmon closely. Opt for bright flesh with no discoloration or off smells. Rinse thoroughly before cooking.

Seasoning and Marinades

Proper seasoning provides flavor while reducing odors. Here are some easy seasoning ideas:

• Lemon juice – The acidity counters fishy smells. Squeeze some juice over the fish before cooking.

• Herbs – Chopped dill, parsley, basil or cilantro give a pleasant aroma.

• Spices – A small sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder or paprika adds flavor without overpowering.

• Salt and pepper – Lightly season with salt and pepper to complement the salmon.

Avoid heavy marinades with pungent ingredients like soy sauce or liquid smoke before microwaving. They intensify smells when heated.

Microwaving Techniques

Use these microwaving methods to cook salmon without smell:

Use a Covered Dish

Cooking in a covered microwave-safe dish traps in moisture and odor. Glass or ceramic work best. If you don’t have a lid, use a plate with a microwave-safe plastic wrap covering.

Vent the wrap slightly so some steam can escape. This prevents overheating and smell.

Cook at Medium Power

Use medium power (50%) rather than maximum power. The gentler heat cooks the salmon evenly without overcooking the exterior and releasing extra smell.

Microwave in Short Intervals

Microwave the salmon in 30-second bursts, checking frequently. This gives you better control over doneness and prevents overcooking.

For a 1/2 pound fillet, start with 2-3 minutes total and add 30 seconds if needed.

Add Aromatics

Add lemon slices, fresh herb sprigs or a sprinkle of minced garlic in the dish while cooking. The aromatics infuse flavor and mask odors.

Allow Standing Time

After cooking, let the salmon stand covered for 2-3 minutes before uncovering. This allows smells to dissipate so less odor escapes upon opening.

Microwaving Multiple Salmon Fillets

For cooking 2 or more fillets:

• Arrange fillets in a single layer without overlapping. This prevents uneven cooking.

• Microwave for half the time, rearrange, then cook for the remaining time. Rotation promotes even heating.

• Stagger cooking if the fillets vary in thickness. Thicker pieces need more time.

How to Tell When Salmon is Done

Check for doneness by:

• Looking for opaque, flaky flesh throughout fillet with no translucent parts

• Testing thick parts with a fork – salmon should flake easily when ready

• Measuring inner temperature using a food thermometer. Aim for 140°F for safe consumption.

Err on the side of undercooking during the initial microwave time to avoid overcooking and smells. You can always give it an extra 30 seconds if needed.

Tips for Eliminating Smell After Cooking

If you do end up with lingering odors, try these remedies:

• Simmer lemon water, vinegar or citrus peels on the stove or microwave to neutralize smells.

• Place a small bowl of ground coffee in the microwave to absorb odors.

• Run the microwave empty on high for 1-2 minutes. The heat helps dissipate smells.

• Wipe the interior down with a mixture of baking soda and water for an easy deodorizing clean.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my microwave still smell fishy even when covered?

Covering traps some moisture and odor. Use a lid or cover with venting to allow steam to escape. This prevents condensation buildup and concentrated smells. Wipe down the interior after cooking.

Can I marinate salmon before microwaving?

Avoid oil- or soy-based marinades as they create intense smells when heated. Opt for an acidic marinade like lemon or lime juice which reduces odors. Marinate for no more than 30 minutes.

How long does it take to microwave salmon?

Cooking time depends on thickness and portion size. A 1/2 pound fillet takes 2-4 minutes on medium power in 30-second increments. Larger or thicker fillets may need more time. Check frequently for doneness.

What setting should I use to microwave salmon?

Cook at 50% power for gentle, even heating. Maximum power can overcook outer portions, resulting in more smell.

Conclusion

With the right salmon selection, seasoning, microwaving methods and odor elimination tips, you can enjoy quick microwave salmon sans smell. The key is using leaner salmon varieties, proper ventilation, and avoiding overcooking.

Next time the craving for salmon strikes, give these techniques a try. You’ll be enjoying delicious, odor-free microwave salmon in minutes.