Sweet & Savory Salmon and Apple Simmer
A Deliciously Different Way to Enjoy Salmon: Salmon and Apple Braised in Soy Sauce
During times when my child could only eat soft, almost liquid foods, I often opted for steaming or braising salmon rather than grilling it. This method ensures the salmon is tender and flavorful, perfect for picky eaters and adults alike. The sweetness of apples combined with the savory depth of soy sauce creates an irresistible dish that pairs wonderfully with rice.
Main Ingredients- Fresh Salmon Fillet 280g
- Apple 300g (about 1 medium apple)
- Carrot 60g (about 1/4 medium carrot)
- Garlic 2-3 cloves
- Cheongyang chili pepper 1 (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Scallions, a small bunch
- Water 200ml
Sauce Ingredients- Soy Sauce 2 Tbsp
- Oligosaccharide 1 Tbsp (or corn syrup)
- Anchovy Sauce (fish sauce) 1 tsp
- Cooking Sake (Mirin) 1 tsp
- Soy Sauce 2 Tbsp
- Oligosaccharide 1 Tbsp (or corn syrup)
- Anchovy Sauce (fish sauce) 1 tsp
- Cooking Sake (Mirin) 1 tsp
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the fresh salmon fillet, approximately 280g. (Tip: Freshness is key for salmon, so purchase from a reputable source.)
Step 2
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp oligosaccharide, 1 tsp anchovy sauce, and 1 tsp cooking sake to create the savory braising sauce. Set aside.
Step 3
Wash the apple, peel it, remove the core, and slice it into about 1.5cm thick pieces. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer at the bottom of a pot. This prevents the salmon from sticking and adds a subtle sweetness as it cooks.
Step 4
Place the salmon fillet on top of the apple slices. Add the carrot, cut into thirds, garlic cloves, and the chili pepper (if using) around the salmon. Pour 100ml of water into the pot. Drizzle about 2/3 of the prepared soy sauce mixture evenly over the salmon, ensuring it’s well coated.
Step 5
Generously coat the salmon with the soy sauce mixture. Reserve the remaining 1/3 of the sauce to add later during the simmering process.
Step 6
Cover the pot with a lid and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 10 minutes. Starting with high heat helps to lock in flavors, while medium heat cooks the salmon gently without breaking it apart.
Step 7
After 10 minutes, the liquid should have reduced slightly and the salmon should be partially cooked. Add the remaining 100ml of water to the pot. Spoon the reserved soy sauce mixture over the salmon again, basting it to ensure even flavor distribution.
Step 8
Cover the pot again. Increase the heat to high briefly, then reduce to low and simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. During this final simmering stage, periodically spoon the sauce from the bottom of the pot over the salmon to enhance its glaze and flavor. Turn off the heat when the sauce has reduced to about 3 tablespoons remaining.
Step 9
Transfer the beautifully braised salmon and apples to a serving plate. Spoon any remaining delicious sauce from the pot over the salmon for extra shine and flavor. Finely chop the scallions and sprinkle them over the top as a fresh garnish. Your Sweet & Savory Salmon and Apple Simmer is now ready to be enjoyed!
