Salmon is delicious when grilled as a fillet, but in Japan, it's also popular to enjoy it as Salmon Flakes. When you put salmon flakes in your mouth, you'll experience the rich taste of the salmon, combined with the sweet and savory flavors of traditional Japanese seasonings. Enjoy them along with their moist and delicate texture!
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What are Salmon Flakes?
Salmon Flakes are made by grilling salmon fillets, flaking the flesh, and seasoning them with traditional Japanese seasonings, such as sake and mirin. In Japan, they are popular among all ages, from children to adults, 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 dish to always have on hand.
Commercially available salmon flakes can be found in stores, but homemade ones are significantly more delicious. Their addictive flavor often leads to quick consumption, so it's recommended to prepare a larger batch and enjoy them over a span of 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 they are fatty, the flavor will be even more enhanced. The color might vary slightly depending on the type of salmon you use, but since they're all natural salmon colors, there's no need for concern.
Enhance the flavor with sesame oil
As a finishing touch to salmon flakes, it's common to add sesame oil or toasted sesame seeds. While not absolutely necessary, incorporating them enhances the flavor profile. This recipe calls for sesame oil only, but you can use both if desired.
Ingredients
- 6.3 oz. (180g) salmon fillets
- 3 Tbsp sake (A)
- 2 Tbsp mirin (A)
- ½ tsp salt (A)
- ½ Tbsp sesame oil
Step-by-step instructions
🕒 Total 15 mins
Step 1
Remove the scales, skin, and bones from the salmon fillets.
Step 2
Add the salmon fillets and A (sake, mirin, salt) to the pan, then simmer them over medium heat for 4 minutes, flipping them halfway.
Step 3
Cook the salmon, using a spatula to break it into smaller pieces.
Step 4
Once most of the liquid in the pan has reduced, add sesame oil and cook for 1 minute.
To Store
You can keep them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Recipe Card
Moist Salmon Flakes
Ingredients
- 6.3 oz. (180g) salmon fillets
- 3 Tbsp sake (A)
- 2 Tbsp mirin (A)
- ½ tsp salt (A)
- ½ Tbsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Remove the scales, skin, and bones from the salmon fillets.
- Add the salmon fillets and A (sake, mirin, salt) to the pan, then simmer them over medium heat for 4 minutes, flipping them halfway.
- Cook the salmon, using a spatula to break it into smaller pieces.
- Once most of the liquid in the pan has reduced, add sesame oil and cook for 1 minute.
Notes
- You can keep them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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