This maple glaze in this recipe is a versatile sauce that can be used on a variety of vegetables, fish, chicken or pork. The sweet and zesty maple mustard combo also makes for a top contending dipping sauce when heated and reduced. But for now, let’s focus on this maple glazed salmon that is flavourful, moist and a family favourite. I find the easiest way to cook salmon is to broil it, allowing for the health benefits of baked fish but at the same time creating a beautiful caramelized top. It really does make a difference in texture and moisture. The secret is to preheat the oven to your cooking temp, and then switching to broil once the fish goes in. Fish cooks while top browns and it comes out perfectly moist, every time.
Yields:
4 servings
Ingredients:
- Maple syrup, ½ cup
- Dijon mustard, ¼ cup
- Low sodium soy sauce, 2 tbsp.
- Orange juice, 2 tbsp.
- Cayenne pepper, ½ tsp. – 1 tsp.
- Fresh thyme, a few sprigs, with stems removed
- Salmon filet, 2lbs (or 8oz. portions x4)
- Salt, 1tbsp.
- Black pepper, 1tsp.
- All-purpose seasoning, 1 tbsp.
What you’ll need:
- Measuring cups
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Sheet pan
- Fish spatula
- Small sauce pot
What to do:
Clean and portion the salmon. Season it with salt, pepper and an all-purpose seasoning of your choice.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, mustard, soy, orange juice, cayenne and thyme.
Divide mixture in half. Set aside 1 half for the glaze – refrigerate until needed. Pour the other half over the salmon. Massage the marinade onto both sides and let stand for at least 1 hour.
Position the oven rack in the middle and preheat oven to 400°F.
Place salmon onto a sheet pan and place it inside and immediately set oven on broil. Cook time will be 8-12 minutes, depending on the size of the cut. A full 2lb. fillet uncut takes approximately 12 minutes and an 8oz. portion takes approximately 8 minutes.
Finish off he maple glazed salmon by heating the reserved maple sauce in a small sauce pot. Reduce on medium low heat until it reaches a thick and glossy consistency and pour over the salmon before serving.