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Smoked Salmon

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Smoked salmon is a rich, flavorful delicacy with a perfect balance of smoky, salty, and buttery texture. Whether hot-smoked or cold-smoked, this homemade version is easy to make and pairs beautifully with bagels, salads, or charcuterie boards. A gourmet treat packed with protein and omega-3s!

Ingredients

  • 1 fresh salmon fillet (skin-on)
  • ½ cup kosher salt
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill (optional)
  • Wood chips for smoking (oak, apple, cherry, or hickory)

Instructions

  • Cure the Salmon – Mix salt, brown sugar, and black pepper. Rub the mixture all over the salmon. Place in a dish, cover, and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
  • Rinse and Dry – Rinse off the cure under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Let the salmon air-dry in the fridge for 1-2 hours to develop a tacky surface.
  • Prepare the Smoker – Preheat the smoker to 175°F (80°C) and add soaked wood chips.
  • Smoke the Salmon – Place the salmon skin-side down in the smoker and smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  • Cool and Serve – Let the salmon cool, then slice thinly and enjoy.