How Do You Clean Salmon?

By Daniel Bennet

Cleaning salmon is an essential step before cooking it. Properly cleaning the fish ensures that any impurities or contaminants are removed, resulting in a safe and delicious meal. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cleaning salmon, step by step.

Gather the necessary tools

Before you begin cleaning the salmon, make sure you have all the necessary tools at hand. You will need:

  • A sharp fillet knife
  • Cutting board
  • Water source (preferably running water)
  • Paper towels

Step 1: Rinse the salmon

Start by rinsing the salmon under cold running water. This helps remove any loose scales, dirt, or debris on the surface of the fish. Hold the fish firmly and run your fingers along its body to feel for any rough spots.

Pro tip:

If you don’t have access to running water, fill a large bowl with cold water and submerge the fish in it. Gently swish it around for a few seconds to dislodge any impurities.

Step 2: Remove scales (optional)

While not necessary, some people prefer to remove the scales from their salmon. Scales can be tough and unpleasant to eat, so if you choose to remove them, follow these steps:

  1. Lay the fish flat on a cutting board.
  2. Using your knife at a slight angle, scrape against the grain of the scales from tail to head.
  3. Repeat this motion until all scales are removed.

Step 3: Gutting and cleaning

Now it’s time to gut and clean the salmon. This step is crucial in removing the internal organs of the fish, including the intestines.

  1. Place the salmon on a clean cutting board.
  2. Starting from the anal vent (located near the tail), make a shallow cut along the belly towards the head.
  3. Gently pull out the internal organs, being careful not to rupture them.
  4. Use your knife or fingers to scrape away any remaining blood or debris from inside.

Pro tip:

If you are unsure about gutting the salmon yourself, you can ask your fishmonger to do it for you at the time of purchase. They will be happy to assist you!

Step 4: Rinse again

After gutting and cleaning, rinse the salmon once more under cold running water. This ensures that any remaining traces of blood or debris are washed away.

Step 5: Pat dry

Using paper towels, gently pat dry both sides of the salmon. This helps remove excess moisture and prepares it for cooking.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning salmon is a crucial step in preparing this delectable fish for cooking. By following these steps, you can ensure that your salmon is free from impurities and ready to be enjoyed as part of a delicious meal!

Remember, practice makes perfect! With time, you will become more comfortable with cleaning salmon, allowing you to effortlessly prepare this nutritious fish for your family and friends.

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Daniel Bennet

Hi, I'm Daniel Bennet (@dan_bennett_) from TrickyFish. From fishing rods to scuba gear, I've delved into every corner of our seas. Join me as I share tales and tips from beneath the waves. Dive in with me on TrickyFish! 🌊🐟