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Honey-Glazed Salmon

This dish features salmon fillets cooked with a sweet honey glaze that creates a shiny, caramelized exterior. The method involves pan-searing the fish until crispy on the outside while keeping it tender inside, then applying a honey-based sauce that thickens into a glossy coating. The final result is a flaky, tender salmon with a sticky, amber-colored glaze and appealing texture contrast.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: International
Calories: 290
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets salmon fillets skin-on for crispiness
  • 2 tablespoons honey preferably raw or local
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce for added umami
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil for searing
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Non-stick skillet or frying pan
  • Basting brush
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper. This helps the skin crisp up nicely during searing.
  2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a teaspoon of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers and begins to gently smoke, place the fillets skin-side down in the pan, pressing lightly to ensure contact.
  3. Sear the salmon for about 4-5 minutes without moving it, until the skin is golden and crispy. The fish should release easily when ready to flip.
  4. Flip the fillets gently using a spatula, then cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side until just cooked through and flaky. The salmon will turn opaque and moist.
  5. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside on a plate. Lower the heat to medium-low and add honey and soy sauce directly into the pan drippings. Stir gently with a spoon or brush to combine.
  6. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring consistently, until it begins to bubble and darken slightly. This reduces and thickens into a glossy glaze.
  7. Using a basting brush or spoon, generously coat the top of each salmon fillet with the honey glaze, allowing it to cling and create a shiny surface.
  8. Optional: for extra shine, give the fillets a final quick brush with more glaze and let them rest for a minute.
  9. Transfer the honey-glazed salmon to plates, spoon any remaining glaze over the fillets, and serve immediately while it's warm and sticky. Enjoy the tender fish with its sweet, caramelized coating.

Notes

Avoid overcooking to keep the salmon tender. Adjust sweetness by varying honey quantity. For a deeper flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or garnish with fresh herbs.