Scandinavian cuisine is rich in both tradition and flavor. One dish that has stood the test of time in this region is cured salmon, also known as gravlax. This simple yet sophisticated recipe has been a staple in Scandinavian households for centuries and has only grown in popularity around the world. In this article, we will dive into the history of this beloved dish and provide you with a professional and well-organized introduction on how to make your own delicious Scandinavian cured salmon.
Main Ingredients: Dill, Kosher Salt, Sugar, Ground White Pepper, Ground
Gravadlax, also known as gravlax or gravad lax, is a traditional Swedish dish that involves curing salmon with salt, sugar, and dill. This delicious and simple recipe only requires a few ingredients, but the end result is a flavorful and tender salmon that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
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Tarragon Cured Salmon
Main Ingredients: Salmon, Coarse Salt, Sugar, Black Pepper, Fresh
Add a touch of French cuisine to your cured salmon with this recipe that calls for tarragon. The herb's distinct anise-like flavor pairs perfectly with the cured salmon, making it a unique and delicious addition to your next meal.
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Gin & Beet Cured Salmon
Main Ingredients: Salmon, Beetroots, Gin, Cucumber, Dill, Orange Zested
For a colorful and flavorful twist on traditional cured salmon, try using a combination of gin and beets in your curing mixture. The gin adds a botanical note while the beets give the salmon a vibrant pink color, making it a show-stopping dish for any occasion.
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Vodka Dill Cured Salmon Gravlax
Main Ingredients: Salmon, Vodka, Lemon Juice, Orange Juice, Lemon Rind
Take your gravlax to the next level with a splash of vodka in the curing mixture. This recipe combines the classic flavors of dill and vodka for a delicious and unique twist on the traditional Swedish dish.
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No.19 Gin Cured Salmon
Main Ingredients: Gin, Salmon, Sugar, Fine Salt, Citrus Fruit
For a simple yet flavorful cured salmon, try using No.19 gin in your curing mixture. The botanical notes of the gin pair perfectly with the salmon, creating a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will impress your guests.
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Cured Salmon
Main Ingredients: Salmon Fillet, Dill, Kosher Salt, Light Brown Sugar
If you're new to the world of cured salmon, this simple recipe is a great place to start. With just salt, sugar, and a few herbs, you can create a flavorful and tender salmon that can be enjoyed on its own or incorporated into other dishes.
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Simple Cured Salmon
Main Ingredients: Salmon Fillet, Coarse Kosher Salt, Raw Sugar, Crushed
This recipe is perfect for those who want to try their hand at curing salmon but don't want to fuss with a lot of ingredients. With just salt, sugar, and a few herbs, you can create a delicious and tender cured salmon that will be a hit at any gathering.
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Orange Cured Salmon
Main Ingredients: Salmon Filet, Raw Turbinado Sugar, Kosher Salt, Salt
For a bright and citrusy twist on cured salmon, try this recipe that calls for the addition of orange zest and juice in the curing mixture. The result is a refreshing and flavorful salmon that is perfect for summer gatherings.
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Gravlax (cured Salmon)
Main Ingredients: Salmon Fillet, Kosher Salt, Sugar, Freshly Ground Black
This classic recipe for gravlax is a staple in any Scandinavian household. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can create a delicious and tender cured salmon that will become a family favorite.
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Cured Salmon Bites
Main Ingredients: Salmon Fillet, Juniper Berries, Peppercorns, Allspice
These bite-sized pieces of cured salmon are perfect for parties and gatherings. Simply cure the salmon, cut it into bite-sized pieces, and serve with toothpicks for a tasty and easy appetizer.
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Lemon-Dill Cured Salmon
Main Ingredients: Kosher Salt, Granulated Sugar, Dill, Lemons, Salmon
This recipe combines the bright and zesty flavors of lemon with the classic herb dill for a delicious and refreshing cured salmon. Enjoy it on its own or use it in sandwiches, salads, and more.
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Home Cured Salmon Fillets
Main Ingredients: Salmon Fillets, Table Salt, Lemon, Spring Onions, Sugar
Skip the store-bought cured salmon and try making it at home with this easy recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can create tender and flavorful salmon fillets that are perfect for any occasion.
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Seaweed Cured Salmon with Mixed Citrus Kosho and...
Main Ingredients: Salmon Steak, Seaweed, Lemon, Mirin, White Miso, Soy
This unique and flavorful recipe combines the traditional method of curing salmon with the Asian flavors of seaweed and citrus kosho. The result is a tender and flavorful salmon that is perfect for adding to sushi rolls or enjoying on its own.
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The Best Simple Cured Salmon
Main Ingredients: Salmon Fillet, Coarse Kosher Salt, Raw Sugar, Crushed
This recipe is the perfect combination of simple and delicious. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can create a tender and flavorful cured salmon that will become a go-to dish for any occasion.
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[Recipe] Vodka Citrus Cured Salmon
Main Ingredients: Salmon Fillet, Sea Salt, Sugar, Dried Dill, Vodka
For a unique and flavorful take on cured salmon, try this recipe that combines vodka and citrus in the curing mixture. The result is a tender and delicious salmon that is perfect for adding to salads, sandwiches, or simply enjoying on its own.
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Beet and Gin Cured Salmon
Main Ingredients: Salmon Fillet, Beet, Celery, Sweet Onion, Gin, Bitters
For a colorful and flavorful cured salmon, try using beets and gin in your curing mixture. The beets give the salmon a vibrant pink color while the gin adds a delicious botanical note.
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Beet Cured Salmon Gravlax with Horseradish
Main Ingredients: Salmon Fillet, Granulated Sugar, Salt, White Pepper
This recipe infuses the classic gravlax with the flavors of beets and horseradish for a unique and delicious twist. The result is a beautifully colored and flavorful cured salmon that is perfect for serving at any special occasion.
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Cured Salmon for Sushi Poke Bowls
Main Ingredients: Fresh Salmon, Chilled Water, Kosher Salt, Sugar
This recipe is perfect for those who love sushi and poke bowls. The cured salmon adds a delicious twist to this popular dish and is easy to make at home. Simply cure the salmon and add it to your favorite poke bowl ingredients for a tasty and healthy meal.
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Cured Salmon with Horseradish and Apple
Main Ingredients: Fresh Salmon, Granny Smith Apple, Creme Fraiche, Fresh
For a flavorful and unique cured salmon, try adding horseradish and apple to the curing mixture. The combination of spicy horseradish and sweet apple creates a delicious and unexpected flavor profile that is sure to impress.
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Honey Garlic Salmon
Main Ingredients: Salmon, Salt, Black Pepper, Cayenne Pepper, Honey, Warm
This recipe takes cured salmon to a whole new level with the addition of honey and garlic in the curing mixture. The result is a sweet and savory salmon that is perfect for adding to salads, sandwiches, or simply enjoying on its own.
The History of Cured Salmon
Cured salmon has been a part of Scandinavian culture for centuries, with the first known recipe dating back to the 14th century. Originally, the process of curing salmon was a way to preserve the fish for long periods of time, allowing for a source of food during the cold, harsh winters. The term "gravlax" comes from the Scandinavian words "gräva" meaning to dig or bury, and "lax" meaning salmon. This refers to the traditional method of curing salmon by burying it in the sand near the shore. Over time, this method has evolved into a more modern process of curing the fish with a salt and sugar mixture, resulting in a delicate and flavorful dish.
The Ingredients
To make your own Scandinavian cured salmon, you will need a few simple but essential ingredients. First and foremost, you will need a fresh and high-quality piece of salmon. The type of salmon used can vary, but traditionally, it is made with Atlantic salmon due to its higher fat content. You will also need a mixture of salt and sugar, which will act as the curing agent, and any additional spices or herbs of your choice. Some popular options include dill, black pepper, and mustard seeds.
The Process
The process of curing salmon is simple, but it does require some patience. First, you will need to clean and dry your salmon fillet. Next, you will create the curing mixture by combining equal parts salt and sugar and any additional spices. This mixture is then rubbed onto the salmon, covering it completely. The salmon is then wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours, allowing the salt and sugar to draw out excess moisture and infuse the fish with flavor.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the salmon has been cured, it can be sliced thin and enjoyed in a variety of ways. Traditional serving options include on top of rye bread with a honey mustard sauce or on its own as a delicate appetizer. The possibilities are endless, and the flavor of the cured salmon will be sure to impress your taste buds.
In conclusion, making your own Scandinavian cured salmon is not only a delicious and impressive addition to any meal, but it also connects you to the rich history and culture of this region. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create your own flavorful gravlax that will have your friends and family coming back for seconds.