Salmon Fillets: Reviving Already-Steamed Delicacy

Steamed salmon is a quick, easy, and healthy dish that can be served hot, warm, or chilled. It is also versatile and can be paired with a variety of sauces and dressings. The cooking time for salmon fillets depends on their thickness, but generally, it takes about 8 minutes to steam salmon. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F when it is done. There are different ways to season and prepare salmon fillets for steaming, and various side dishes that can be served with them.

How to steam salmon without a steamer

Steaming salmon is a great, healthy way to cook the fish without drying it out. If you don't have a steamer, there are a couple of simple methods you can use to steam salmon using a pot or pan, a cooking ring or steamer basket, and a couple of inches of water.

Using a Heat-Proof Plate and Cooking Ring

Place a stainless steel cooking ring in the centre of a shallow pot. The ring will act as a buffer between the boiling water and the plate you'll be steaming the fish on. You can also use a large cookie cutter or a couple of balls of aluminium foil to elevate the plate.

Add around 2 inches (5.1 cm) of water to the pot, ensuring the water level is just below the top of the ring, cookie cutter, or foil balls. Place a heat-safe plate that's smaller than the pot on top of the ring or foil balls, centring it to ensure it's secure.

Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the water to a low boil. When steam begins to escape from the pot, carefully add your fish to the plate. Cover the pot and steam the fish for 5-7 minutes for small fillets, or 10-12 minutes for thicker cuts.

Using a Steamer Basket

Season your salmon fillets and place them in a single layer at the bottom of the steamer basket, leaving around 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) of space between each piece. If you're using a bamboo basket, line it with parchment paper or lettuce, cabbage, or banana leaves.

Fill a pot with 1-2 inches (2.5-5.1 cm) of water, ensuring the water level remains below the steamer basket. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then carefully place the steamer basket inside the pot. Cover the pot and steam the fish for 5-7 minutes, or 10-12 minutes for thicker fillets.

Tips

• You can use other liquids such as broths, stocks, and cooking wines for extra flavour.
• To add even more flavour, simmer aromatics like minced ginger, crushed peppercorns, dried citrus zest, or anise in your steaming water.
• You can steam vegetables at the same time by throwing them into the steamer for a few minutes before adding your fish.

How to tell when salmon is steamed

Steamed salmon is a great, healthy option for a quick and easy meal. It is also practically foolproof. But how do you know when your salmon is steamed?

First, it is important to note that the cooking time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Steaming salmon usually takes about 8 minutes, but thicker fillets may take longer.

The best way to tell if your salmon is done is to use a digital thermometer. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 140-145°F. If you don't have a thermometer, there are other ways to tell if your salmon is cooked. The fillets should be a light pinkish-orange colour and firm (but not hard) to the touch. The fish should give way slightly when you poke it, but it should not be flaky. If the salmon flakes easily, it is likely overcooked. The centre of the fillet should be opaque white, beige, or brown, and slightly translucent pink.

How to store and reheat steamed salmon

Storing and reheating steamed salmon requires a bit of care to ensure it retains its flavour and texture. Here's a guide to help you:

Storing Steamed Salmon:

• After cooking, allow the salmon to cool down to room temperature. This helps prevent bacterial growth.
• Wrap the salmon securely in plastic wrap or aluminium foil to seal it and lock in moisture.
• Place the wrapped salmon in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag and store it in the fridge.
• It is recommended to consume leftover salmon within 1-2 days for optimal taste and freshness.
• If you don't plan on eating the salmon soon, consider freezing it. Wrap it tightly and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay fresh in the freezer for about 2-3 months.
• Label the container or bag with the date it was stored.

Reheating Steamed Salmon:

• Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature, between 275°F and 325°F.
• Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminium foil.
• Place the salmon on the baking sheet and drizzle with a small amount of olive oil, melted butter, or squeeze some lemon juice over it to add moisture and enhance flavour.
• Cover the salmon loosely with foil to retain moisture and prevent the edges from drying out.
• Put the salmon in the oven and warm it for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
• Remove the salmon from the oven and serve immediately.

Note: It is generally recommended to avoid reheating salmon in the microwave as it can dry out the fish and produce an unpleasant odour. If you must use a microwave, cover the salmon with a damp paper towel and reheat in short intervals on low power settings.

How to serve steamed salmon

Steamed salmon is a quick, easy, and healthy dish that can be served hot, warm, or chilled. It is also incredibly versatile, pairing well with a variety of sauces, sides, and salads. Here are some ideas on how to serve steamed salmon:

Sauces

Salmon goes well with many sauces, such as:

• Quick creamy aioli: Mix mayonnaise, chopped fresh dill, fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
• Lemon, caper, and Dijon vinaigrette.
• Creamy citrus mango sauce.
• Fresh basil pesto.
• Tropical pineapple-mango salsa.
• Preserved lemon sauce.
• Tzatziki sauce with Greek yogurt.
• Traditional tomato salsa.
• Horseradish sauce with chives.
• Toasted sesame oil and soy sauce with green onions.

Sides

Steamed salmon can be served with a variety of sides, such as:

• Rice: Brown, white, or Greek lemon rice.
• Quinoa.
• Vegetables: Steamed or roasted asparagus, broccolini, green beans, or avocado kale Caesar.
• Bread: A loaf of crusty bread to sop up the juices.
• Salad: A hearty salad like Balela or fattoush.

Presentation

When serving steamed salmon, consider leaving it in the cooking pot to make it easier and more attractive. You can also serve it on individual plates or platters, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.

How to make a sauce for steamed salmon

There are many different sauces that can be paired with steamed salmon. Here are some ideas for inspiration:

• Creamy Dill Sauce: Place some cream cheese and honey in a bowl and microwave until softened. Whisk in some lemon juice. If the mixture is lumpy, microwave for a further 15 seconds and whisk until creamy. Add dill, salt, and pepper to taste. You can also add chilli powder or paprika for a spicy kick, or a teaspoon of curry powder for a Middle Eastern twist.
• Spicy Maple Sauce: Combine soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and toasted sesame oil in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
• Garlic and Ginger Sauce: Combine sugar, pepper, oyster sauce, and soy sauce in a bowl. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Pour oil into a saucepan and add garlic. Cook until fragrant, then add ginger and cook until fragrant. Pour in the sauce and stir. Add scallions, turn off the heat, and stir to combine.
• Quick Creamy Aioli: Mix together some mayonnaise, chopped fresh dill, fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
• Lemon, Caper, and Dijon Vinaigrette: A tangy and sharp sauce to serve with your salmon.
• Green Yogurt Sauce: Place a shallot, basil leaves, olive oil, red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, salt, and Greek yogurt or labneh in a blender and blend until smooth.
• Hollandaise Sauce: Combine kosher salt, fresh lemon juice, unsalted butter, and large egg yolks.
• Chimichurri Sauce: Combine crushed red pepper flakes, cilantro leaves, extra virgin olive oil, and other ingredients of your choice.
• Preserved Lemon Sauce: A tangy sauce to serve with your salmon.
• Tzatziki Sauce: Combine lemon juice, salt, fresh dill, plain Greek yogurt, cucumber, and black pepper.
• Toasted Sesame Oil and Soy Sauce: Sprinkle with green onions for an Asian-inspired dish.
• Butter, Lemon, and Caper Sauce: A classic combination of flavours to complement the salmon.

Frequently asked questions