Hot Smoked Copper River Sockeye Salmon

by Gerry Speirs, Foodness Gracious

Courtesy of our partner, Copper River Marketing Association

Discover how easy it is to prepare delectable hot-smoked salmon with this recipe! Copper River sockeye salmon is imbued with opulent, smoky undertones through the skillful combination of dark brown sugar, kosher salt, and aromatic seasonings. As breakfast or as a standalone dish, this hot-smoked masterpiece is ideal due to its unrivaled flavor. For added complexity, Copper River sockeye salmon served with coffee will elevate your meal.

Hot Smoked Copper River Sockeye Salmon

Ingredients

3 ½ lb Copper River Sockeye Salmon fillet

¾ cup dark brown sugar

½ cup kosher salt

1 tsp black pepper

1 tsp ground cloves

1 tsp cardamom

½ tsp ground nutmeg

1 tsp ground coffee

Directions 

1 Rinse salmon and pat dry with a paper towel.

2 Lay salmon on the baking tray, skin side down.

3 In a bowl, whisk together the remaining ingredients.

4 Spread the spice mixture over the salmon, completely covering it.

5 Cover salmon lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 24 hours, then rinse and dry again, and place on a sheet of foil ready for the smoker.

6 Using applewood chips in your hot smoker, add salmon to the smoker once the temperature is steady around 150°F.

7 Smoke for two hours until firm to the touch, remove the salmon, cover lightly with foil, and refrigerate for at least 12 hours.

8 Before slicing, carefully peel off the skin.

9 Eat as is or add it to some eggs for breakfast.

Hot-smoked salmon, rooted in indigenous preservation methods, is globally celebrated for its rich flavor. This fully cooked dish, historically using woods like alder, offers a smoky taste and is a nutritious source of omega-3 fatty acids. Chefs worldwide experiment with herbs and spices, making them a versatile ingredient in diverse culinary creations. 

A common and popular dish using hot smoked salmon is the classic "Smoked Salmon Bagel with Cream Cheese." This dish typically features a toasted bagel spread with creamy cream cheese and topped with slices of hot smoked salmon. Additional toppings may include red onion, capers, fresh dill, and a squeeze of lemon juice. The combination of the smoky, flaky salmon with the richness of cream cheese creates a delicious and satisfying meal often enjoyed for breakfast or brunch.

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