salmon bourbon glaze recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
salmon bourbon glaze recipe
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The Best salmon bourbon glaze recipe

I have been making this salmon bourbon glaze recipe for years now and it is a staple in our home. The combination of sweet bourbon and savory soy sauce creates a glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the salmon. My kids love the sticky sweet coating and my husband always asks for seconds.

It is one of those meals that feels fancy enough for a dinner party but is simple enough for a weeknight. This recipe comes from a blend of Southern and Asian influences. The bourbon adds a rich warmth while the brown sugar and soy sauce bring a deep umami flavor.

The glaze reduces into a thick syrup that coats each fillet perfectly. I love how the salmon stays moist and flaky on the inside with a slightly charred crust on the outside. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids which are great for heart health and brain function.

It is also a good source of protein and vitamin D. By using a homemade glaze I can control the sugar and sodium levels better than store bought versions. This makes it a healthier choice for my family without sacrificing taste.

The key technique here is to pan sear the salmon first to get a nice golden crust then brush on the glaze and finish in the oven. This method locks in moisture and ensures the glaze doesn’t burn. I always use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution.

The result is a restaurant quality meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Salmon Bourbon Glaze

Salmon Bourbon Glaze

4.7 from 643 votes

This salmon bourbon glaze recipe features a sweet and savory sauce made with bourbon, brown sugar, and soy sauce. The salmon is pan seared then baked with the glaze for a caramelized finish.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets about 6 ounces each
1 tablespoon olive oil
salt and pepper to taste

For the Bourbon Glaze

1/3 cup bourbon
1/4 cup brown sugar packed
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
3Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes so they cook evenly.
4In a small saucepan combine the bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and black pepper.
5Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat stirring occasionally.
6Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens slightly and reduces by about a third.
7The glaze should coat the back of a spoon but still be pourable.
8Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium high heat until it shimmers.
9Place the salmon fillets skin side down in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes without moving them.
10The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
11Flip the fillets carefully and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side.
12Brush a generous layer of the bourbon glaze over each salmon fillet using a basting brush.
13Reserve about half of the glaze for later.
14Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 6 to 8 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
15The internal temperature should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
16Remove the skillet from the oven and brush the remaining glaze over the salmon fillets.
17Let them rest for 2 minutes before serving.
18This allows the glaze to set and the juices to redistribute.
19Serve the salmon with steamed rice or roasted vegetables and drizzle any extra glaze from the pan on top.

🔧Equipment

Cast iron skillet or oven safe skillet
Small saucepan
Whisk
Basting brush
Baking sheet if not using skillet

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 22g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 34g

📝Notes

For a less sweet glaze reduce the brown sugar to 3 tablespoons. You can substitute maple syrup for the brown sugar if you prefer. Leftover glaze can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Watch Video Of How Salmon Bourbon Glaze Works

This salmon bourbon glaze recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It works well for family gatherings because it is easy to scale up and the ingredients are simple.

The sweet and savory glaze appeals to both kids and adults making it a crowd pleaser. To store leftovers place the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat with a little extra glaze or water to keep it moist. You can also reheat it in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes.

This salmon is delicious served cold over a salad or flaked into rice bowls for lunch the next day. For serving ideas try it with roasted vegetables or a side of coleslaw for a fresh crunch.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Salmon Bourbon Glaze

1. Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of bourbon?

Yes you can substitute bourbon with whiskey, scotch, or even dark rum. The flavor will change slightly but the glaze will still be delicious. For a non alcoholic version use apple juice or apple cider with a splash of vanilla extract.

2. How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit. The flesh should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Overcooking will make it dry so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.

3. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes you can prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until it is warm and pourable. You may need to add a splash of water if it thickens too much.

4. What sides go well with this salmon bourbon glaze recipe?

This salmon pairs well with steamed rice, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad. The sweet and savory glaze also complements roasted sweet potatoes or sautéed spinach. For a complete meal serve it with a side of garlic bread or quinoa.

5. Can I grill the salmon instead of pan searing and baking?

Absolutely you can grill the salmon over medium high heat for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Brush the glaze on during the last 2 minutes of grilling to prevent burning. Grilling adds a smoky flavor that works well with the bourbon glaze.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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