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.
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What are Salmon Flakes?
Salmon Flakes are a Japanese rice condiment made by cooking salmon fillets, flaking the flesh, and seasoning them with traditional Japanese seasonings, such as sake and mirin. In Japan, they are popular among people of all ages as a topping for rice or a filling in 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 may be found in Asian markets, but homemade ones are significantly more delicious because they don't contain additives. Their irresistible flavor often leads to quick consumption, so it is recommended to prepare a larger batch and enjoy them over a couple of days.
Types of salmon used
There are various types of salmon, and you can make salmon flakes with any of them. If the salmon is fatty, the flavor will be even more enhanced. The color might vary slightly depending on the type of salmon you use, but as they are all natural salmon colors, there is no need for concern.
To enhance flavor
As a finishing touch to salmon flakes, it is common to add 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 if desired.
Ingredients
- 2 (6.4oz./180g) salmon fillets
- ½ Tbsp sesame oil
Seasonings:
- 3 Tbsp sake
- 2 Tbsp mirin
- ½ tsp salt
Step-by-step instructions
🕒 Total 15 mins
Step 1
Remove the scales, skin, and bones from the salmon fillets.
Step 2
Place the salmon fillets in a pan, add the seasonings (sake, mirin, and salt), and simmer over medium heat for 4 minutes, flipping the fillets halfway.
Step 3
Cook the salmon fillets, breaking them into smaller pieces with a spatula.
Step 4
Once most of the seasoning liquid has reduced, add sesame oil and cook for an additional 1 minute.
To Store
You can keep them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Recipe Card
Moist Salmon Flakes
Ingredients
- 2 (6.4oz./180g) salmon fillets
- ½ Tbsp sesame oil
Seasonings:
- 3 Tbsp sake
- 2 Tbsp mirin
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Remove the scales, skin, and bones from the salmon fillets.
- Place the salmon fillets in a pan, add the seasonings (sake, mirin, and salt), and simmer over medium heat for 4 minutes, flipping the fillets halfway.
- Cook the salmon fillets, breaking them into smaller pieces with a spatula.
- Once most of the seasoning liquid has reduced, add sesame oil and cook for an additional 1 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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