Perfectly Salted Fish with Lemon and Spices

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

sea salt

sugar

We recommend:

For sea salt:

Prime

4.8

(12,806) REDMOND Real Sea Salt - Natural Unrefined Gluten Free Fine, 26 Ounce Pouch (1 Pack) $11.85 View details

For sugar:

Prime

4.8

(3,527) Judee's Superfine Caster Sugar - 5 lbs - Delicious and 100% Gluten-Free - Bakers Sugar for Homemade Treats, Baked Goods, and Toppings - Airy and Smoot $24.99 View details

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Salt and Sugar Mix

In a bowl, combine *equal parts sea salt and sugar*, with the sugar being slightly less than the salt. For reference, use about *1 cup (300 grams) of sea salt* and *slightly less than 1 cup (250 grams) of sugar*. This proportion is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance.

Step 2

Salt the Fish

Coat the fish thoroughly with the salt and sugar mix, ensuring that every surface is covered evenly. *This step helps to draw out moisture and creates a flavor-packed brine around the fish.*

It is *important* to place something heavy on top of the fish to assist in the salting process. This weight helps to keep the fish submerged in its own juices, making for an even better curing experience.

Step 3

Let It Cure

Allow the fish to cure in the refrigerator for a minimum of *12 hours*. During this time, the salt will penetrate the flesh, enhancing the flavor while preserving the fish.

Step 4

Discard Liquid and Prepare for Eating

After the curing period, carefully drain off any liquid that has accumulated. At this point, you can either leave the skin on or remove it, as well as deciding how much to fillet the fish, depending on your *personal preference*. The fish is now ready to enjoy!

Servings

When you're ready to serve your perfectly salted fish, think outside the box! Pair it with a fresh, crisp salad for a light lunch, or add it to a charcuterie board as a delightful appetizer. 🥗✨

Consider serving it alongside homemade toast or crackers for a crunchy contrast. 🥖 Top with a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing that complements the fish beautifully. 🍋

For the adventurous, try wrapping the salted fish in seaweed for a sushi-inspired dish that’s sure to impress! 🌊🎣

Equipment

Container for Salting

A glass or ceramic container works best for salting fish. Avoid metal, as it can react with the salt and affect the flavor. Ensure your container is clean and dry.

Weights

Use a heavy plate or jar to press down on the fish during the salting process. This helps to release moisture evenly and speeds up the curing process.

Refrigerator

Make sure you have enough space in your refrigerator to keep the container. The fish needs to be kept chilled to ensure safety during the salting process.

We recommend:

2 Door 49 Cu.Ft Commercial Refrigerator Dynamic Cooling OmniSmart Temperature Control 33℉~41℉ Stainless Steel Reach In 6 Shelves 54" W Commercial Refrigerator LED Light Digital Thermostat

4.2

(16) 2 Door 49 Cu.Ft Commercial Refrigerator Dynamic Cooling OmniSmart Temperature Control 33℉~41℉ Stainless Steel Reach In 6 Shelves 54" W Commercial Refrigerator LED Light Digital Thermostat $2499.00 View details

KoolMore KM-MDR-1D-6C 6 Cu. Ft. Commercial One Glass Door Display Upright Beverage Refrigerator Cooler Merchandiser-22.8 in. x 21.4 in. x 52.7 in. [Black]

4.4

(225) KoolMore KM-MDR-1D-6C 6 Cu. Ft. Commercial One Glass Door Display Upright Beverage Refrigerator Cooler Merchandiser-22.8 in. x 21.4 in. x 52.7 in. [Black] $696.93 View details

(1) KoolMore CDC-165-WH 35 in. Self-Service Countertop Bakery Display Refrigerator in White $1194.19 View details

Variations

If you're looking to tweak the recipe, consider these options: For a gluten-free version, use natural sea salt and ensure all additional ingredients are certified gluten-free. 🌾🚫

If you're aiming for a vegan twist, substitute the fish with tofu or jackfruit. The same salting ratio applies, and you’ll enjoy a savory flavor experience! 🌱🥭

Faq

What type of fish works best for salting?
Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are ideal since they hold up well and absorb flavors beautifully.
How long should I salt the fish?
A minimum of 12 hours is necessary to let the flavors develop, but you can brine it longer for a stronger taste.
Can I reuse the salty brine?
It's best not to reuse the brine. Once it has been used, it may contain bacteria and impurities.
What spices can I add to enhance flavor?
Feel free to add spices like dill or black pepper to the salt mixture to elevate the flavor profile further!
Is it essential to remove the skin before salting?
No, it’s up to your preference! You can salt the fish with skin on and remove it later if you wish.
How can I tell when the fish is ready to eat?
The fish should feel firm to the touch and have a more concentrated flavor after salting. Taste testing is key!