Embark on a culinary voyage to the Nordic lands with Gravlax, a Scandinavian delicacy that captures the essence of cured salmon. This traditional dish, originating from Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, tantalizes taste buds with its unique blend of flavors and textures.
Cured using a mixture of salt, sugar, and herbs, Gravlax boasts a rich and savory taste profile, complemented by a delicate and silky texture that melts in your mouth. The curing process infuses the salmon with a symphony of flavors, ranging from the subtle sweetness of sugar to the aromatic nuances of dill and juniper berries.
This article presents an array of Gravlax recipes, each offering a distinct culinary experience. From the classic Gravlax recipe that showcases the purity of flavors to innovative variations that incorporate modern culinary techniques, there's a recipe here to suit every palate.
Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to expand your culinary horizons, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to create an unforgettable Gravlax dish.
GIN AND JUNIPER CURED SALMON - SCANDINAVIAN GRAVLAX
This is a slightly different Gravlax recipe than normal, as it uses gin and juniper for a clean, sophisticated and fresh taste - if you are not keen on gin - you could use vodka instead! Junipers can also be replaced by a few extra peppercorns. Gravlax (pronounced grov-lox) is from the Swedish name for this dish. Norwegians call it gravlaks and the Danish refer to it as Gravad laks. It literally means "buried salmon" and the name refers to the traditional method of preparation for this food: fresh salmon was heavy salted and buried in dry sand to ferment and cure.
Provided by French Tart
Categories Lunch/Snacks
Time P2DT10m
Yield 4-6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Remove the bone from the salmon, leaving two triangular fillets with the skin intact.
- To make the curing mixture, mix together the Maldon Crystal Salt, sugar and peppercorns,juniper berries and the gin.
- Place the salmon, skin side down, on a board and place half of the curing mixture over the surface of each fillet, pressing it well into the flesh. Now cover each fillet with the chopped dill.
- Place one fillet on top of the other to make a sandwich with the dill in the centre and the skin on the outside. Wrap tightly in Clingfilm and place on a shallow dish or plate. Place a plate over the top and weight with a heavy tin. Put in the fridge for 24 - 48 hours turning the gravalax twice during the curing time.
- Unwrap the gravlax and slice thinly Serve with rye bread and a sauce made from equal quantities of mayonnaise and wholegrain mustard mixed with a little sugar and chopped dill.
GRAVLAX (SCANDINAVIAN CURED SALMON)
Steps:
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, sugar, peppercorns, and allspice. Chop the stems and leaves of the dill. Lay a piece of the salmon, skin side down, on a piece of plastic wrap large enough to wrap both fillets. Sprinkle the fillet with half the spice mix, moisten with half of the cognac, if using, and cover with all the chopped dill. Cover the second fillet with the spice mix and cognac. Sandwich the 2 fillets together and tightly wrap in the plastic wrap. Make sure the fillets are held tightly closed with a good seal. Place the wrapped salmon on a plate and weigh it down with a 1-pound can or weight. Place in the refrigerator. Every 12 hours or so, open the package and baste the fish with the liquid that has formed around it. Let the salmon cure for at least 24 or up to 36 hours. When the salmon is ready, scrape the dill mixture off with a spoon and refrigerate the fish until ready to serve. To serve the gravlax; slice thin pieces at a 45-degree angle with a long, sharp narrow knife. Lay the gravlax out on a platter and serve it with black bread and a bit of mustard. The gravlax will stay fresh for a week wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator.
Tips:
- Use the freshest salmon you can find. Fresh salmon will have a bright pink color and a firm texture.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the salmon. A sharp knife will help you get clean, even slices.
- Don't over-cure the salmon. Over-cured salmon will be dry and tough.
- Serve the salmon with your favorite accompaniments, such as cream cheese, capers, red onion, and dill.
Conclusion:
Gravlax is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It's also a great way to impress your friends and family. With a little planning and effort, you can easily make gravlax at home. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try today!
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
You'll also love