Traeger Vodka Salmon Recipe: Deliciously Smoked Wild Salmon

This recipe details a gourmet preparation of smoked wild-caught salmon, brined in a mixture of vodka, brown sugar, black pepper, and coarse salt. The smoking process uses cherry wood pellets to infuse a woodsy flavor into the salmon. The recipe serves four and highlights the steps required for brining, preparing, and smoking the salmon to perfection.

Ingredients:

• Brine:
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup coarse salt
  • 1 cup vodka
• Main:
  • 1 (1.5 to 2 lb) wild-caught salmon
  • Lemon wedges
  • Capers

Steps:

1. Prepare Brine: In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, pepper, salt, and vodka.
2. Marinate Salmon: Place the salmon in a large resealable bag, pour in the brine, massage it into the salmon, and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours.
3. Dry Salmon: Remove the salmon from the bag, rinse it, and dry with paper towels.
4. Preheat Grill: Set the Traeger grill temperature to 180℉ and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes.
5. Smoke Salmon: Smoke the salmon, skin-side down, for 30 minutes.
6. Increase Temperature: Increase the grill temperature to 225℉ and cook for an additional 45 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part reaches 140℉ and the fish flakes easily.
7. Serve: Serve the smoked salmon with lemon wedges and capers.

Additional Tips:

• Use the Super Smoke setting on the Traeger grill if available for optimal flavor.
• For the best results, follow the step-by-step guide provided by Traeger on how to smoke salmon.

Smoked Salmon: A Culinary Adventure

Smoking salmon is more than just a cooking method; it’s a journey into the heart of gourmet cuisine. The rich, smoky flavor combined with the delicate texture of wild-caught salmon can transform a simple meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. This guide will take you through the intricate process of preparing vodka brined smoked wild salmon, ensuring that your next seafood feast is nothing short of perfection.

The Essence of Brining: Brining is a crucial step in the smoking process. It not only imparts flavor but also enhances the texture of the salmon. This recipe utilizes a unique brine mixture that includes vodka, brown sugar, black pepper, and coarse salt. The vodka acts as a tenderizer, breaking down the proteins in the salmon and allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. The sweetness of the brown sugar balances the heat of the black pepper, creating a harmonious blend that complements the natural taste of the fish.

Preparation and Marination: Start by preparing the brine. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, black pepper, coarse salt, and gorilka until well combined. Place the wild-caught salmon in a large resealable bag and pour the brine over it. Massage the brine into the salmon, ensuring it is well coated, then seal the bag and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours. This marination period allows the flavors to infuse into the salmon, setting the stage for a delectable smoked dish.

The Smoking Process: Preheat your Traeger grill to 180℉, using cherry wood pellets for a subtle, sweet smoky flavor. Place the salmon on the grill, skin-side down, and smoke for 30 minutes. The low temperature allows the smoke to permeate the fish slowly, building up a complex flavor profile. After 30 minutes, increase the temperature to 225℉ and continue to cook for an additional 45 to 60 minutes. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 140℉, at which point the salmon will flake easily with a fork, indicating it is perfectly cooked.

Serving Suggestions: Once smoked, serve the salmon with lemon wedges and capers. The acidity of the lemon and the briny taste of the capers provide a delightful contrast to the rich, smoky flavor of the salmon. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a light, refreshing beer, making it an ideal choice for a summer evening meal.

Conclusion:

Mastering the art of smoked salmon requires patience, precision, and a passion for culinary exploration. By following this guide, you will not only create a gourmet dish that is fit for any occasion but also gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate process that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Enjoy your smoked salmon adventure, and may it be as rewarding as it is delicious.