To prepare salmon before cooking, focus on ensuring a clean fillet, dry skin, and proper seasoning, followed by preparing your cooking vessel for optimal results.
Essential Steps for Preparing Salmon for Cooking
Proper preparation is key to a delicious and perfectly cooked salmon fillet. By following these steps, you'll ensure your salmon is ready to absorb flavors and achieve the desired texture, especially a crispy skin.
1. Inspect and Debone the Fillet
Before you begin cooking, it's important to ensure your salmon fillet is free of any small bones that could detract from the eating experience.
- Begin by carefully inspecting your salmon fillet for any remaining pin bones. These small, thin bones are usually found along the lateral line of the fish.
- Remove any bones with fish tweezers. Gently run your fingers along the flesh to locate them, then pull them out firmly in the direction they are pointing. This step is crucial for a smooth and pleasant eating experience.
2. Dry the Salmon Skin
Achieving a perfectly crispy skin is a hallmark of well-cooked salmon, and drying is the foundational step.
- Pat the skin side of the fish dry with a paper towel. Excess moisture on the skin creates steam when it hits the hot pan, which prevents it from becoming crispy. Ensure it's as dry as possible for maximum crispiness.
3. Seasoning for Flavor and Crispiness
Proper seasoning not only enhances the natural flavor of the salmon but also plays a role in achieving a desirable texture, particularly on the skin.
- Season the skin with sea salt to add crispiness. The salt helps draw out remaining moisture and contributes to a crispy, flavorful crust.
- You can also season the flesh side of the salmon with salt, freshly ground black pepper, or other preferred herbs and spices to enhance the overall flavor.
4. Prepare Your Cooking Pan
Before placing the salmon in the pan, ensure your cooking surface is adequately prepared to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Place a fry pan on medium-high heat and add olive oil for cooking. Heating the pan and oil sufficiently before adding the fish prevents sticking and helps achieve a beautiful, golden-brown sear. The oil should shimmer lightly but not smoke excessively, indicating it's ready.
Practical Tips for Best Results:
- Room Temperature: Allow your salmon fillets to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before cooking. This helps ensure more even cooking from edge to center.
- Don't Overcrowd: If cooking multiple fillets, avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook them in batches if necessary to maintain consistent pan temperature and achieve a good sear.
- Skin-Side Down First: When pan-searing, always place the salmon skin-side down first. This allows the skin to crisp up nicely and renders out some of the fat.
