Today, I’m presenting you with a culinary masterpiece that is sure to enhance your dining experience. Seared Salmon Fillet with Salty Potato Crisps and Chermoula Sauce. This dish is not just a feast for the taste buds but a celebration of flavors and textures dancing in harmony. So, tie those apron strings tight and let’s dive into the art of creating a meal that’s as delightful to cook as it is to savor.
Crispy Skin Salmon with Potato Crisps and Chermoula Sauce
Ingredients
Seared Salmon Fillet:
- 2 salmon fillets, skin-on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Salty Potato Crisps:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes
- 1 cup canola oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chermoula Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 cup fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 lemon, Zest and juice
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Salty Potato Crisps:
- Preheat the canola oil in a pan for frying.
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes using a mandolin or a sharp knife.
- Fry the potato slices in batches until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oil, drain on paper towels, and sprinkle with salt.
Chermoula Sauce:
- In a food processor, combine cilantro, parsley, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili flakes, lemon zest, and juice.
- Pulse until well combined. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Seared Salmon Fillet:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of olive oil.
- Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side down, and sear for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy.
- Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the salmon is cooked to your liking.
Notes
- Salmon Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- Patience is Key: Ensure your salmon fillets are dry before searing. Pat them with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, promoting a crispy skin.
- Hot Pan, Crispy Skin: Preheat your skillet thoroughly before adding the salmon. This helps achieve a crispy sear on the skin.
- Seasoning Perfection: Season the salmon generously with salt and pepper, and consider adding a pinch of your favorite herbs or spices for an extra flavor boost.
- Thin is In: Slice the potatoes thinly for optimal crispiness. A mandolin slicer can be a handy tool for achieving uniform thickness.
- Oil Control: When frying the potato crisps, maintain the oil at a consistent temperature to achieve a golden brown color without becoming greasy.
- Chermoula Freshness: Prepare the Chermoula Sauce just before serving to preserve the vibrant flavors of the herbs and spices.
- Marination Magic: Marinate the salmon fillets in the Chermoula Sauce for an hour before cooking to infuse them with an extra layer of flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Add a hint of orange or lime zest to the Chermoula Sauce for a citrusy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Infuse the frying oil with a sprig of rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch to the potato crisps.
- Garnish Galore: Garnish the plated dish with microgreens, chopped fresh herbs, or a drizzle of extra Chermoula Sauce for a visually appealing presentation.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or almond slices over the finished dish for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
And there you have it, a symphony of flavors on a plate! The crispy potatoes provide the perfect crunch, the seared salmon is a melt-in-your-mouth delight, and the chermoula sauce ties everything together with a burst of freshness.