This Just Maika Cooking: Cook’s Notebook section will focus on everything related to prepping fish connected to all my recipe posts, updated frequently.
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Remove the Salmon Skin
Learn the latest trends and techniques for removing salmon skin effortlessly, complete with step-by-step picture tutorials to guide you.
![salmon fillets in a container next to a paper towel, pepper grinder and salt cellar on a plastic cutting board.](https://growthculinary.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/remove-salmon-skin-1.jpg)
Color Coded Flexible Plastic Cutting Board Mats have colors for every type of food, such as raw fish (blue), chicken (yellow), and meat (red).
Thawed fish usually have a lot of excess moisture.
Use a paper towel to dry the fillets to prevent slipping when cutting.
Turn the fish so that it is horizontal to you.
Place the blade right between the skin and flesh with your hand gently placed on top to prevent the fish from moving.
Gently go with the flow of the skin to cut the skin off.
Drying the fish also helps the oil and seasoning to adhere to the flesh.
Try Salmon Sesame Chili Rice Bowl.
The TikTok Way
The TikTok trend for removing salmon skin with hot water has gained popularity for its simplicity and effectiveness.
To do this, follow these steps:
- First, boil a pot of water. Then, place the salmon fillet on a cutting board, skin-side down.
- Pour the hot water directly over the salmon skin for a few seconds. The heat will cause the skin to loosen and curl, making it easier to peel off.
- Using a pair of tongs or your fingers, gently lift and remove the skin from the salmon.
This method is quick, safe, and ensures a clean separation of the skin from the fillet, making it perfect for recipes where you prefer skinless salmon.
Prepping Made Easy
As of March 2023, I’m excited to have started using my color-coded Plastic Cutting Boards, which are highly rated on Amazon. It has a stand handle that grips non-slip padding on both sides!
This is great! Especially if you are prepping fruit or chopping garlic, you just flip the board over. The stand helps keep them separated when drying. They are also the perfect size. I easily store them on my busy countertop.
Check out Pepper Fish Yam Stew, hearty and spicy!
Searing Fish Skin Side Down
Try Salmon Sesame Chili Rice Bowl.
Creating Slits
Branzino Fillets are usually small. Serve two fillets per person.
Pinch the fish to create an arch to slit the fish with a sharp knife.
Beware: Watch the tip of your fingers, keeping them safe from the sharp blade.
Depending on the size of the fish, two to three slits are enough.
Try Air Fryer Branzino with Lemon Potatoes and Vegetables.
Why Create Slits on the Skin of the Fish?
This prevents the fish from curling when cooking and helps with cooking faster.
Buying Fish
A guide on buying different types of fish, including essential shopping tips to ensure you select the freshest and highest quality catch every time.
Types of Salmon and Shopping Tips
Atlantic Salmon Filets
Atlantic Salmon - Atlantic salmon is commonly farmed and widely available year-round. It has a mild flavor and a medium-firm texture. Shopping Tips: Look for fillets that are bright pink with a fresh, mild scent. Avoid any with a strong fishy odor or dull, discolored spots. Check for sustainability certifications like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) to ensure responsible farming practices.
Sockeye (Red) Salmon Filets
Sockeye Salmon - (Red salmon) is known for its vibrant red flesh and rich, robust flavor. It is typically wild-caught and available fresh during its summer season or frozen year-round. Shopping Tips: Choose fillets with a deep red color and firm texture. Fresh sockeye should have a clean, ocean-like smell. Check for clear packaging with minimal ice crystals to ensure freshness when buying frozen.
King (Chinook) Salmon Filets
King Salmon - (Chinook) is prized for its high-fat content, buttery texture, and rich flavor. It is the largest of the salmon species and is often wild-caught. Shopping Tips: Look for fillets that are rich in color and appear moist but not slimy. Fresh king salmon should have a pleasant, briny scent. Because it's often more expensive, make sure to buy from reputable sources, especially if you are looking for wild-caught options.
Salmon Recipes
- Easy Sheet Pan Spicy Miso Salmon Rice Bowl
- Sheet Pan Citrus Chili Lime Salmon with Vegetables
- Best Air Fryer Habanero Adobo Salmon and Yellow Risotto
- Air Fryer Calabrian Chili Salmon and Vegetables Bowl
More Cook's Notebook Articles
Keeping Going! Learn something new by clicking on one of the links below.
Dinner Inspirations: Fish Recipes
Are you looking for a salmon recipe for dinner? Check out these below:
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