Bennie Kendrick
The Perfect Smoked Salmon
INGREDIENTS
- 1 fresh salmon fillet
- Seasoning of your choice (I like a bold BBQ rub or a citrus herb blend)
- 2 lemons
DIRECTIONS
- Choose your favorite seasoning and apply it liberally to the salmon
- Slice two lemons into wedges and lay them across the top of the seasoned salmon
- Set your smoker to 350°F. Place the salmon directly on the grill grates or on a cedar plank if you want extra flavor. Smoke the fish until the internal temperature reaches 142°F—this usually takes about 20–30 minutes depending on the thickness of the fillet
- Once done, remove the salmon from the smoker and let it rest for 15 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the fish moist and tender
CITRUS & SALMON
When it comes to flavor pairings that just work, few are as naturally balanced as salmon and citrus. The rich, buttery texture of salmon meets the bright, acidic zing of lemon, lime, or orange in a combination that enhances both taste and presentation.
Whether you’re grilling, smoking, baking, or curing, citrus brings out the best in salmon — cutting through its richness, adding freshness, and elevating every bite.
Why Citrus Works So Well With Salmon: Salmon is known for its high fat content, particularly healthy omega-3 fatty acids. While this gives it a luxurious mouthfeel, it also benefits from a little contrast to lighten things up.
Lemon Wedges for Smoking or Grilling: Place lemon slices directly on top of your salmon fillet before smoking or grilling. The heat releases oils and juice, gently steaming the fish and infusing it with flavor.
Final Thoughts: Citrus and salmon go hand in hand for a reason. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or whipping up a quick weeknight meal, a splash of lemon or a touch of lime can take your salmon from good to unforgettable.
So next time you're preparing salmon, don’t forget the citrus — a small touch that makes a big difference.
KNIFE UTILIZED
If you've ever worked with a whole salmon—or even a large fillet—you know how important the right knife can be. That’s where the fillet knife shines. Designed specifically for precision, control, and clean cuts, this essential kitchen tool is the perfect companion for preparing salmon.
Precision for Delicate Fish: Salmon has a tender, flaky texture that can easily tear or bruise with the wrong blade. A fillet knife’s thin, flexible blade glides effortlessly through the flesh, allowing you to make smooth, clean cuts without damaging the meat.
Ideal for Skin Removal: Removing the skin from salmon can be tricky—unless you’re using a fillet knife. The blade’s sharp edge and narrow tip make it easy to slide between the skin and flesh in a single motion, preserving more of the meat and minimizing waste.
Better Control = Better Presentation: If you care about presentation (and who doesn’t?), a fillet knife is your best friend. It lets you slice clean, uniform portions that cook evenly and look professional—perfect for grilling, smoking, or plating.
Easily Navigates Bones: Need to debone your salmon? A fillet knife can help with that too. Its flexible blade allows you to feel and work around pin bones, making it easier to remove them without gouging the fillet.
