Salmon with currant sauce

Salmon with Blackcurrant Sauce: A Symphony of Flavors

Discover a refined and flavorful recipe for salmon with blackcurrant sauce, which combines the delicacy of fish with the sweetness and acidity of blackcurrants. This dish is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a healthy option, rich in nutrients. Salmon, known for its high omega-3 fatty acid content, is an excellent choice for a nutritious meal. Moreover, blackcurrants add a note of freshness and vibrant color, transforming this dish into a true culinary masterpiece.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the salmon:
- 500 g salmon (preferably fillet, skin on)
- 1/2 lemon (freshly squeezed juice)
- Sichuan pepper (or black pepper, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom

For the blackcurrant sauce:
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or olive oil)
- 1 cup blackcurrants (fresh or dried)
- 1 cup vegetable broth (or fish broth)
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons fresh blueberries (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom (optional, for extra flavor)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Marinating the salmon
Start by preparing the salmon. Cut it into thick slices of about 2 cm. In a bowl, squeeze the juice from 1/2 lemon over the salmon, then sprinkle with Sichuan pepper, ginger, and cardamom. Mix well to coat each slice of salmon with the flavored marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours. This marinating will intensify the flavors and make the salmon more succulent.

2. Preparing the blackcurrant sauce
After the salmon has marinated, you can start preparing the sauce. In a pan, add the butter and coconut oil, then sauté the finely chopped onion over medium heat. After about 2 minutes, when the onion becomes transparent and slightly golden, add 3/4 of the blackcurrants. Continue to sauté for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

3. Boiling the sauce
Add the vegetable broth to the pan and let the mixture come to a boil. Cook over medium heat until the liquid reduces by more than half. This step will concentrate the flavors and add depth to the sauce. Once the liquid has reduced, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce until smooth.

4. Finishing the sauce
After achieving a smooth sauce, add the remaining blackcurrants and fresh blueberries, as well as the orange juice. Season with a little cardamom, if desired. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

5. Baking the salmon
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the salmon slices in a baking dish, skin side down, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, until they are nicely browned and cooked through. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork.

6. Serving
Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the salmon slices on plates, drizzled with the blackcurrant sauce on top. You can garnish with a few fresh blackcurrants and blueberries for an attractive presentation.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the salmon: Opt for fresh, quality salmon to ensure the dish will be delicious. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can choose wild salmon.
- The sauce: You can experiment with different berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, to create variations of the sauce.
- Serving: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of basmati rice or steamed vegetables, which will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the salmon and sauce.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This blackcurrant sauce salmon recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Salmon is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D. Blackcurrants are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a strong immune system and heart health.

Estimated calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another fish instead of salmon?
Yes, you can replace salmon with trout or sea bream, which have a similar flavor.

2. What other sides can I serve with this dish?
Basmati rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh seasonal salad are all excellent options.

3. How can I store the blackcurrant sauce?
The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

Customized Variation

If you want to add a special touch to the dish, try adding some toasted nuts to the blackcurrant sauce for added texture. You can also create a more complex marinade by adding soy sauce or honey to create an interesting contrast between sweet and salty.

This blackcurrant sauce salmon recipe is perfect for special occasions or for a weekend dinner with family. So, put on your chef's apron and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience!