Salmon is delicious when cooked as a fillet, but in Japan, it is also popular to enjoy it as Salmon Flakes. When you put them in your mouth, you will experience the rich taste of the salmon, infused with slightly sweet and savory traditional Japanese flavors.
What are Salmon Flakes?
Salmon Flakes are a rice condiment made by cooking salmon fillets, flaking the flesh, and seasoning it with traditional Japanese seasonings. In Japan, they are popular among people of all ages as a topping for rice or a filling for onigiri (rice balls). While they are delicious when freshly made, they are commonly prepared as a rice condiment to keep on hand.
Commercially available salmon flakes can be found in Asian markets, but homemade ones are significantly more delicious, as they don't contain additives. Their irresistible flavor often leads to quick consumption, so it is recommended to prepare a larger batch at once.
Types of salmon used
There are various types of salmon, and you can use any of them to make this rice condiment. However, it is especially recommended to use fattier salmon, as it can add even more richness. The color might vary slightly depending on the type of salmon you use, but since they are all natural salmon colors, there is no need for concern.
To enhance flavor
As a finishing touch for salmon flakes, it is common to add toasted sesame oil or toasted sesame seeds. While not absolutely necessary, incorporating them enhances the flavor profile. This recipe calls for only sesame oil to provide a moist texture, but you can use both or either one if desired.
📋Step-by-step recipe
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (about 3.2 oz/90 g each)
- ½ Tbsp toasted sesame oil
Seasonings:
- 3 Tbsp sake
- 2 Tbsp mirin
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
🕒 Total: 15 mins
Step 1
Remove the scales, skin, and bones from salmon fillets.
Step 2
Place the salmon fillets in a pan, add seasonings (sake, mirin, and salt), and then simmer over medium heat for 4 minutes, flipping the fillets halfway through.
Step 3
Continue cooking the salmon fillets, breaking them into smaller pieces with a spatula.
Step 4
Once most of the seasoning liquid has been absorbed, add sesame oil and cook for an additional minute.
To store
You can keep them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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Recipe card
Moist Salmon Flakes
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (about 3.2 oz/90 g each)
- ½ Tbsp toasted sesame oil
Seasonings:
- 3 Tbsp sake
- 2 Tbsp mirin
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Remove the scales, skin, and bones from salmon fillets.
- Place the salmon fillets in a pan, add seasonings (sake, mirin, and salt), and then simmer over medium heat for 4 minutes, flipping the fillets halfway through.
- Continue cooking the salmon fillets, breaking them into smaller pieces with a spatula.
- Once most of the seasoning liquid has been absorbed, add sesame oil and cook for an additional minute.
Notes
- You can keep them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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