Brown Sugar Bourbon Glazed Salmon Recipe
This Brown Sugar Bourbon Glazed Salmon recipe features perfectly seared salmon fillets coated in a sweet and savory bourbon glaze made with brown sugar, soy sauce, and maple syrup. The combination of Creole Cajun seasoning and a sticky bourbon glaze creates a flavorful dish ideal for a quick yet impressive meal.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, center-cut, preferably skinless
- 1 tablespoon Creole Cajun seasoning, homemade or store-bought, plus more to taste
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
Brown Sugar Bourbon Glaze
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup bourbon (We use Jim Beam)
- 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Garnish
- Sliced scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season salmon & rest: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season them evenly with Cajun seasoning by patting the mixture onto all surfaces. Then set the seasoned salmon aside and let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes, allowing flavors to develop.
- Prep the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, bourbon, dark brown sugar, maple syrup, and freshly ground black pepper until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined. Set this glaze aside until ready to use.
- Sear the salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down. Let them sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until a deep golden crust forms. If the skillet looks dry, add an additional tablespoon of oil as needed. Flip the salmon using a fish spatula and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Build the sticky bourbon salmon: Pour the prepared bourbon glaze over the salmon in the skillet. Allow the glaze to heat to a slight boil, spooning it over the fillets occasionally. Continue cooking until the glaze thickens into a glossy, sticky consistency that coats the salmon well. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Serve: Plate the sticky bourbon glazed salmon fillets garnished with sliced scallions if desired. Serve alongside your favorite sides such as rice and steamed broccoli. Enjoy this perfectly balanced sweet and savory dish!
Notes
- Use skinless salmon fillets for easier searing and glazing.
- Adjust the amount of olive oil during searing depending on skillet dryness.
- Allowing the salmon to rest at room temperature helps it cook evenly.
- Bourbon adds depth of flavor but can be substituted with whiskey or omit for a non-alcoholic version.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Keywords: salmon, bourbon glaze, brown sugar, Cajun seasoning, seared salmon, easy dinner, sweet and savory seafood
