Description
This Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon recipe offers a deliciously sweet and savory glaze that perfectly complements tender, flaky salmon fillets. With a simple yet flavorful mix of brown sugar, soy sauce, lemon juice, and ginger, this skillet-cooked salmon is quick to prepare and makes for a satisfying main dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon
- 4 pieces fresh salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Bring salmon to room temperature and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor and ensure a crispy skin.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, lemon juice, freshly grated ginger, Worcestershire sauce, chicken broth or water, and cornstarch until smooth and well combined.
- Heat Skillet: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow the butter to melt and begin bubbling but not burning.
- Cook Salmon Skin-Side Down: Carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook without moving for about 5 minutes, allowing the skin to crisp up nicely.
- Flip Salmon: Gently flip the fillets over, reduce the heat to medium, and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the salmon is almost cooked through.
- Add Glaze and Butter: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet and pour the prepared glaze around the salmon. Let it cook and bubble for 20 to 30 seconds, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the fillets.
- Final Glaze Coat: Flip the salmon once more briefly and spoon the thickened glaze over the top to ensure an even, glossy coating.
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the heat and serve immediately with your choice of side dishes such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- To ensure even cooking, bring the salmon to room temperature before cooking.
- The glaze thickens quickly; watch closely to avoid burning.
- Substitute chicken broth with water for a lighter sauce.
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or steamed greens for a balanced meal.
