Maple Glazed Salmon (No Oven Involved)

Looking for a way to utilize maple syrup at home? You know there's more than just maple syrup and pancakes right?

In fact, I was amazed how this recipe turned out. Putting maple syrup together with fish? That sounds absurd at first. But think of it as a slightly more aromatic source of sugar. You won't really notice that maple syrup was used, and it's hard not to fall for such luscious sweet and savory salmon dish.

Maple glazed salmon (no oven involved) - 

Ingredients (for two fillets)?

Marinade - 

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons green lemon juice (can be substitute with yellow lemon or lime)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped garlic (about 2 cloves)

Others - 

• 2 salmon fillet
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Some chopped cilantro
• Some toasted white sesame seeds

How?

Mix all the ingredients under the "marinade" section to a medium container. Transfer salmon fillets over and make sure both sides are coated with the seasonings. Cover and store in the fridge.

Let the salmon marinate for 15 minutes first. Flip to the other side and continue to marinate for another 15 minutes. When ready to cook, remove from fridge and let it rest under room temperature for few minutes.

Use a non-stick pan and drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Turn to medium heat and wait till the surface temperature rises. Take out the salmon and try to wipe out the garlic bits. Add to the pan and leave the fillets untouched first.

Sear till the bottom seems to set, about couple minutes. You can now move around the salmon if needed. Cook till the bottom turns slightly browned then flip to the other side. Continue to sear till colored.

Still using the same pan, now it's time to pour in all the remaining marinade along with garlic bits. Flip the salmon one or two times, making sure all sides are coated with the sauce.

Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and wait for it to melt. Tilt the pan and keep scooping the melted butter and the sauce to the top of both salmon fillets. Keep basting the fish till the sauce has been reduced and can't really scoop up enough sauce anymore.

Plate and garnish with toasted white sesame seeds. Also add some chopped cilantro on top.

I would recommend to serve this dish with steamed rice. The sweet and savory sauce is even better when enjoying together with it. 

Extended reading:

• Oven-baked gochujang salmon fillets