Nov 27, 2011

Orange-Glazed Salmon


The simple, spicy rub delivers that elusive rich heat & depth of flavor that  teeters precariously on the edge of  'hot' without quite going there....although if that's your desire, it's easy enough to do. The dark, sweet, caramelized  crust is packed with both  spice and sweetness, an intriguing combination that has this quick dish appearing on our table with some frequency.

Make  an effort to find  the Seville orange marmalade. Seville oranges have  more flavor and are more acidic  than the usual brands, such as Smuckers.There are several brands  of 'better-quality' marmalade.....among them,   Duerr's, and Crosse & Blackwell , and Trader Joe's carries a decent version as well.  If  you really must use  a non-Seville marm, be  aware  you'll need to increase the lime juice to offset the weaker, too-sugary brands.

I like to serve it with sweet potato fries  and  a green salad.

Make a rub with 2 TB salt-free Creole seasoning, 1 heaping TB brown sugar ( substitutes work fine), and 1/4 tsp kosher salt.  Rub over all sides of 4  6-oz salmon fillets, skin removed.   If you  like 'hot', use 3 TB of the Creole seasoning.   Heat a large non-stick skillet  with 2 TB canola oil ( not olive oil) over medium high heat. Be sure the oil is shimmering, then add the fillets.  Don't  attempt to move or turn them for about 4 minutes.   Then turn and cook an additional 2-3 minutes.

Blend 1/4 c. Seville orange marmalade with 1 TB fresh lime juice ( you'll need one lime); swirl  it around in the pan until it's melted, then carefully turn the fish in it to glaze on all sides.  When it flakes,and it should by this time, it's ready.  Garnish with lime and orange slices.