Steamed Salmon with Sweet Ginger Soy Glaze
Indulging in a perfectly cooked piece of salmon is one of life’s simple pleasures, especially when it’s enhanced with a delicious glaze. This Steamed Salmon with Sweet Ginger Soy Glaze is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a wholesome option for dinner. The combination of tender salmon and a sweet, savory glaze infused with ginger and honey creates a dish that is both flavorful and nutritious. Plus, steaming is a healthy cooking method that preserves the salmon’s moisture and nutrients, making this recipe a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight meals.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, the steaming process locks in the natural flavors of the salmon while keeping it moist and flaky. The sweet ginger soy glaze is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory, with just the right amount of spice from the crushed red pepper. The use of low-sodium soy sauce and pure honey allows you to enjoy a rich taste without the excess salt and refined sugars found in many commercial sauces. Additionally, this dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests during dinner parties.
What You’ll Gather
- 16 ounces skinless and boneless salmon fillets
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pure honey
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
Setup & Equipment
- Steamer basket or a bamboo steamer for steaming the salmon.
- Large pot or wok to hold the steamer basket.
- Mixing bowl for preparing the glaze.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spatula or brush for applying the glaze.
Steamed Salmon with Sweet Ginger Soy Glaze: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by rinsing the salmon fillets under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels and place them in a shallow dish. Season both sides of the salmon with kosher salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Make the Sweet Ginger Soy Glaze
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground ginger, garlic powder, low-sodium soy sauce, pure honey, and crushed red pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended. This glaze is what will bring the salmon to life!
Step 3: Preheat the Steamer
Fill a large pot or wok with water, making sure it does not touch the bottom of the steamer basket. Bring the water to a simmer over medium heat. If using a bamboo steamer, line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 4: Steam the Salmon
Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the steamer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Brush or spoon a generous amount of the sweet ginger soy glaze over each fillet. Carefully place the steamer basket over the simmering water, cover with a lid, and steam for about 10-12 minutes or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the steamer and drizzle any remaining glaze over the top. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as steamed vegetables or rice, for a complete meal.
Better-for-You Options
- Replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Add fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Incorporate steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus in the steamer for a complete meal.
Cook’s Commentary
This Steamed Salmon with Sweet Ginger Soy Glaze is a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. If you’re a fan of citrus, consider adding a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice to the glaze for a zesty kick. For a more intense flavor, let the salmon marinate in the glaze for about 30 minutes before steaming. The key is to ensure that the salmon is not overcooked—perfectly steamed salmon should be moist and tender. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or a bowl of fluffy jasmine rice.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To freeze, wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, ensuring no air is trapped. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, gently steam the salmon again until warmed through, or microwave it on a low setting, being careful not to overcook it.
Quick Q&A
Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?
Yes, you can use fresh ginger! Grate about 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger and use it in place of the ground ginger for a more vibrant flavor.
What can I serve with this steamed salmon?
This salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a light salad. You can also serve it with a side of noodles for a more filling meal.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. It should not be translucent in the center. You can also use a meat thermometer; it should read 145°F in the thickest part of the fillet.
Can I prepare the glaze in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet ginger soy glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly when chilled.
Final Bite
This Steamed Salmon with Sweet Ginger Soy Glaze is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines health and flavor in a delightful way. The harmonious blend of ginger and honey will have you dreaming of this dish long after the last bite. With its ease of preparation and the ability to be adapted to suit various tastes, this recipe deserves a spot in your weekly dinner rotation.
Enjoy this delicious salmon dish that not only nourishes the body but also satisfies the soul. Make it tonight and let the flavors transport you to a culinary haven. It’s a dish that surely embodies the essence of simple, wholesome cooking that everyone can appreciate.
Steamed Salmon with Sweet Ginger Soy Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by rinsing the salmon fillets under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels and place them in a shallow dish. Season both sides of the salmon with kosher salt and black pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground ginger, garlic powder, low-sodium soy sauce, pure honey, and crushed red pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
- Fill a large pot or wok with water, making sure it does not touch the bottom of the steamer basket. Bring the water to a simmer over medium heat. If using a bamboo steamer, line it with parchment paper.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the steamer basket, brush a generous amount of the sweet ginger soy glaze over each fillet, and steam for about 10-12 minutes or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily.
- Once cooked, remove the salmon from the steamer and drizzle any remaining glaze over the top. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- For a vegan option, replace honey with maple syrup.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free dish.
- Add fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for extra flavor.
