Poached salmon is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this popular fish. But can you poach salmon with the skin on?
The answer is yes! In fact, poaching salmon with the skin on can help keep the fish together and prevent it from falling apart during cooking.
Why Poach Salmon?
Salmon is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for a healthy diet. Poaching is a gentle method of cooking that involves simmering food in liquid until it’s cooked through. This method of cooking helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the fish and results in tender, flaky flesh that’s perfect for salads, sandwiches, or served as an entrée.
Poaching Salmon with the Skin On
Poaching salmon with the skin on is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients. To get started, you’ll need:
- Salmon fillets (with skin)
- Water or broth
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Here’s how to poach your salmon:
Step 1: Prepare Your Poaching Liquid
Fill a large skillet or sauté pan with enough water or broth to cover the salmon fillets. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Bring Liquid to a Simmer
Heat the liquid over medium heat until it comes to a simmer (small bubbles should appear on the surface).
Step 3: Add Salmon Fillets
Place your salmon fillets in the pan, skin-side down. The liquid should just cover the fish.
Step 4: Cover and Cook
Cover your pan with a lid and cook the salmon for about 10-12 minutes, or until it’s cooked through. You can test for doneness by using a fork to gently flake the fish – if it easily separates into flakes, it’s done.
Step 5: Remove from Heat
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove your salmon fillets from the poaching liquid and set them aside to cool.
Benefits of Poaching Salmon with the Skin On
Poaching salmon with the skin on has several benefits. The skin acts as a barrier between the fish and the poaching liquid, which helps to keep the flesh moist and flavorful. Additionally, leaving the skin on during cooking can help prevent the fish from falling apart – especially useful when you’re working with delicate fillets.
How to Serve Poached Salmon
There are countless ways to serve poached salmon! You can flake it over a salad for a healthy lunch or dinner option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables, or even use it to make salmon burgers.
The Bottom Line
So there you have it – poaching salmon with the skin on is not only possible but also an excellent way to retain moisture and flavor during cooking. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy tender and delicious poached salmon at home.
