Description
This Brown Sugar Bourbon Glazed Salmon is a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Juicy center-cut salmon fillets are coated with Cajun seasoning, quickly seared, and finished in a rich bourbon, brown sugar, and maple glaze. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy yet elegant dish is perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Salmon
- 4 (6-ounce) center-cut salmon fillets, preferably skinless
- 1 tablespoon Creole Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Bourbon Glaze
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon (such as Jim Beam)
- 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish
- Sliced scallions (optional)
Instructions
- Season Salmon & Rest: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Generously season all surfaces of the salmon with Cajun seasoning, pressing it in gently. Set the salmon aside and allow it to come up to room temperature for about 20 minutes. This helps the salmon cook more evenly.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the soy sauce, bourbon, dark brown sugar, maple syrup, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze is combined. Set aside until ready to use.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down. Let the fillets sear, undisturbed, for 2-3 minutes until a deep golden crust forms. If needed, add up to 1 tablespoon more oil if the skillet becomes dry. Flip the fillets using a fish spatula and cook an additional 1-2 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Build the Sticky Bourbon Glaze: Pour the prepared bourbon glaze over the salmon in the skillet. Allow the mixture to come to a slight boil, spooning the glaze over the fillets occasionally. Once the glaze is glossy and slightly thickened, remove from heat. The salmon will be beautifully glazed and ready to serve.
- Serve: Plate the sticky bourbon glazed salmon and garnish with sliced scallions if desired. Pair with rice, steamed broccoli, or your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- If you don’t have bourbon, whiskey makes a good substitute, but the flavor will vary slightly.
- For the best sear, avoid moving the salmon once placed in the skillet.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- This recipe is not suitable for those avoiding alcohol, as the bourbon flavor is prominent.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 (6-ounce) salmon fillet with glaze
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 840mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
