Salmon and rice in Thai style

Thai Style Salmon with Rice - An Unmistakable Culinary Experience

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 2

When it comes to dishes that combine exceptional flavors with perfect presentation, Thai style salmon with rice proudly takes the top spot. This recipe is not just a simple dish, but a true journey into the world of tastes. Fresh salmon, combined with a vibrant mix of aromatic ingredients, will transform any meal into a memorable feast.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Over time, fish dishes have been appreciated in many cultures for their nutritional benefits and unique flavor. Salmon, a fish rich in omega-3, is often associated with healthy diets and sophisticated dishes. The Thai style, known for its use of fresh ingredients and intense flavors, perfectly blends tradition with innovation, offering a savory result.

Ingredients

For the salmon:
- 2 pieces of salmon fillet (approx. 200-250g each)
- 30g butter
- Juice of 1 lime
- A bunch of green onions
- Zest of 1 lemon
- A piece of ginger (about the size of a walnut)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon of coriander seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric
- A pinch of pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 2 cloves of garlic
- A pinch of chili (adjust to taste)
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 3 full tablespoons of coconut milk (if solid, scoop it out with a spoon)
- 150ml water
- 1 slice of pineapple (fresh or canned)
- 5-6 fresh basil leaves

For the rice:
- 1 cup of rice (Thai Jasmine rice is ideal, but long-grain rice works well too)
- 3 tablespoons of coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
- 1/4 cup of coconut flakes
- Salt, to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start with the simplest tasks. Finely chop the green onions and garlic. Grate the ginger, and you can cut the pineapple into small cubes or grate it. Extract the lime juice and zest the lemon. These will add a fresh note to the dish.

2. Making the sauce:
In a pan, add the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the green onions, garlic, ginger, and chili (if you choose to use it). Let them soften for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent.

3. Adding the aromatic ingredients:
Now is the time to add the rest of the sauce ingredients: coconut milk, soy sauce, chili powder, chopped basil, turmeric, lemon zest, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Also add the water, mixing well to integrate the flavors. Finally, incorporate the grated pineapple. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Marinating the salmon:
In a bowl, transfer half of the prepared sauce and let it cool slightly. Place the salmon in the marinade and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to absorb the flavors. The longer it marinates, the tastier it will be!

5. Cooking the salmon:
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the salmon in a baking dish and pour the remaining marinade over it. Add a few slices of lemon for extra flavor. Bake the salmon for 45 minutes or until fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.

6. Preparing the rice:
While the salmon is in the oven, bring water to a boil for the rice. For one cup of rice, use 2.5 cups of water. When the water is boiling, add the rice and a pinch of salt. Cook until soft (about 15-20 minutes, depending on the type of rice). If you want creamier rice, cook it longer until it becomes almost like a puree.

7. Finishing the rice:
After the rice is cooked, add the coconut oil, coconut milk, and coconut flakes. Mix well and let it simmer on low heat for 5-6 minutes to combine the flavors.

Serving

Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Place it on plates alongside the aromatic rice and pour the remaining marinade on top. Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves and, if desired, an extra squeeze of lime juice.

Practical Tips

- About the salmon: Always choose fresh salmon for the best taste. If you prefer, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure it is fully thawed before cooking.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the salmon with marinated tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian option.
- The rice: If you want colorful rice, add a teaspoon of turmeric during cooking.

Nutritional Benefits

Salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health. Coconut milk adds healthy fats and a creamy taste, while pineapple provides essential vitamins.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of fish?
Of course, sea bream or trout are excellent alternatives!

2. How can I adjust the spiciness?
You can reduce or omit the chili, and for extra flavor, you can use sweet chili sauce.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A cold lemonade or a dry white wine are excellent choices that will perfectly complement the dish's flavors.

Final Note

This Thai style salmon with rice is not just a delicious recipe but also an opportunity to explore new flavors and combinations. Whether you prepare it for a special dinner or for an everyday meal, the result will always be impressive. Enjoy every bite and let yourself be carried away by the magic of tastes!