This Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon is a tasty treat! The sweet glaze combines brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic for a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the flaky salmon.
Making this dish is a breeze. Just mix the glaze, brush it on the salmon, and bake. In no time, you’ll have a delicious meal that feels fancy but is super easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are key for this dish. If you can’t find salmon, you might try trout or even chicken breasts for a different protein option.
Brown Sugar: This gives the glaze its sweetness. You can swap it with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index, or use honey or maple syrup, but adjust the amount as these liquefy the glaze.
Soy Sauce: A staple for the salty, umami flavor. Use coconut aminos for a gluten-free option or low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching sodium intake.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a nice tang. You can replace it with yellow mustard or omit it if you prefer a sweeter glaze.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the dish depth. Garlic powder is a good substitute if you don’t have fresh on hand — just use a little less.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure the Salmon is Flaky and Not Overcooked?
The trick to perfectly cooked salmon is to keep an eye on the cooking time and method. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and still has a little gloss to it. Here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before placing the salmon inside to ensure even cooking.
- A quick bake of 12–15 minutes usually does the job. Thicker fillets may need an extra few minutes, so check early.
- For a nice glaze, consider broiling the salmon for 1-2 minutes at the end. Keep a close watch to avoid burning.
How to Make Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for baking or searing)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
What’s the Total Time Needed?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes to have a wonderful Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps ensure that the salmon cooks evenly. Also, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly oiling it to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to combine everything until it’s nice and smooth, and the sugar is dissolved.
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet with the skin side down. This keeps them moist while they bake.
4. Coat the Salmon:
Generously brush the brown sugar glaze over the top of each salmon fillet, making sure they are well coated to get that delicious caramelization when cooked.
5. Optional Olive Oil:
If you want, drizzle a tiny bit of olive oil over the salmon for added moisture and a crisper texture. This step is optional but can enhance the flavor.
6. Bake:
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 12–15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork, and the glaze is beautifully caramelized and bubbly.
7. Broil for Extra Finish (Optional):
If you like a little extra glaze action, you can broil the salmon for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end. Just watch it closely to avoid burning!
8. Garnish & Serve:
Take the salmon out of the oven and garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme if desired. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can add a nice touch, too. Serve your salmon immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite salad or veggies on the side.
Enjoy your deliciously sweet and savory Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon with its perfectly sticky and aromatic coating!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before applying the glaze for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you need a soy sauce alternative, try coconut aminos for a gluten-free option or tamari for a gluten-free soy sauce. You can also use liquid aminos, which will give a similar flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or microwave to maintain its texture. Avoid reheating it too long to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly when chilled.
