Name: Gin and Tonic Cured Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 24 h 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 48 h 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: For Salmon:; 1½ lbs salmon fillet; 2 cups beetroot; 1 bunch fresh dill; ½ lemon zest; 3 tsp lemon juice; ½ cup sea salt; ½ cup caster sugar; 8 tsp gin; For Pickle:; 4 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion; ½ cup tonic water; ½ cup caster sugar; 1 cup fresh coriander; ¼ cup red chilli; ¼ cup lime juice; 1 oz white wine vinegar; 20 g fresh ginger; 2 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp Corn Flour; 1 lime zest; 1 tsp sea salt; 1 pinch black pepper

Infuse your next culinary creation with a delightful twist by preparing this gin and tonic cured salmon. The combination of vibrant beetroot, fresh dill, and aromatic gin creates a unique taste experience that is both refreshing and sophisticated. Perfect for a special brunch or a standout appetizer, this dish will impress your guests with its stunning color and exquisite flavor.

Photos of Gin and Tonic Cured Salmon Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in your pantry. Fresh beetroot, gin, and tonic water are essential to achieve the desired flavors and textures. Additionally, caster sugar, which is finer than regular sugar, is necessary for the curing process. Keep these in mind on your next supermarket trip.

Gin And Tonic Cured Salmon Ingredients

Salmon fillet: A fresh, high-quality cut of salmon that forms the base of this dish.

Beetroot: Adds vibrant color and earthy sweetness to the cure.

Fresh dill: Provides a fragrant, herbaceous note.

Lemon zest: Adds a bright citrus flavor to the cure.

Lemon juice: Enhances the tangy profile of the dish.

Sea salt: Crucial for the curing process and flavor balance.

Caster sugar: A fine sugar that helps in curing the salmon.

Gin: Infuses the salmon with botanical flavors.

Olive oil: Used in the pickle for a smooth texture.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the pickle.

Tonic water: Complements the gin in the curing process.

Fresh coriander: Adds a fresh, citrusy note to the pickle.

Red chili: Provides a spicy kick to the pickle.

Lime juice: Adds acidity and freshness to the pickle.

White wine vinegar: Used in the pickle to give it tanginess.

Fresh ginger: Adds warmth and spice to the pickle.

Honey: Adds sweetness and balances the flavors in the pickle.

Corn flour: Thickens the pickle mixture.

Lime zest: Enhances the citrus flavor in the pickle.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice to the overall dish.

One reader, Edythe Milligan says:

This gin and tonic cured salmon recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredibly vibrant, and the lime tonic pickle adds a delightful zing. Perfect for impressing guests or a special dinner at home. Absolutely delicious!

Edythe Milligan

Techniques Required for Curing Salmon

How to cure salmon: Mix the curing ingredients (sugar, salt, lemon juice, lemon zest, gin, beetroot, and dill) and evenly cover the salmon with the mixture. Refrigerate for 24 hours.

How to make a pickle: Combine olive oil, onion, coriander, ginger, lime juice, lime zest, honey, salt, pepper, white wine vinegar, tonic water, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Cook on medium heat for 2 minutes, then simmer on low heat for 20 minutes.

How to slice salmon: After curing, rinse the salmon with cold water, pat dry, and slice thinly at an angle, avoiding the skin.

How To Make Gin and Tonic Cured Salmon

Paired with a lime tonic pickle, gin provides a strong, sharp tangy taste and it works well as a marinade for this cured salmon making it extra tender.

Preparation: 1 day 20 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Chill Time: 1 day

Total: 2 days 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Salmon:

1½lbssalmon fillet
2cupsbeetroot,grated
1bunchfresh dill,finely chopped
½lemon zest,grated
3tsplemon juice
½cupsea salt
½cupcaster sugar
8tspgin

For Pickle:

4tbspolive oil
1onion,finely chopped
½cuptonic water
½cupcaster sugar
1cupfresh coriander,finely chopped
¼cupred chilli,finely chopped
¼cuplime juice
1ozwhite wine vinegar
20gfresh ginger,rated
2tbsphoney
2tbspcorn flour
1lime zest
1tspsea salt
1pinchblack pepper

Instructions

Salmon:

In a mixing bowl, add the sugar, salt, lemon juice, lemon zest, gin, beetroot and dill and mix together well.
Cover the salmon with the cure and spread out evenly. Lay cling-film over the top and refrigerate for 24 hours.

Pickle:

In a saucepan add the olive oil, onion, coriander, ginger, lime juice, lime zest, honey, salt, pepper, white wine vinegar, tonic water, and cornstarch.
Mix well on medium heat for 2 minutes, reduce to low heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and empty into an airtight jar or container.
Remove salmon from fridge and rinse the cure off with cold water, pat dry with kitchen roll and slice thinly at an angle being sure not to include the skin on the slices.
Serve with salad and the lime tonic pickle.

Nutrition

Calories: 797.26kcal
Fat: 36.75g
Saturated Fat: 7.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 16.35g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.18g
Carbohydrates: 75.66g
Fiber: 3.61g
Sugar: 66.29g
Protein: 37.03g
Cholesterol: 93.55mg
Sodium: 1009.75mg
Calcium: 55.37mg
Potassium: 1005.79mg
Iron: 1.94mg
Vitamin A: 22.50µg
Vitamin C: 39.46mg

Key Technique for Perfecting Gin and Tonic Cured Salmon

When curing the salmon, make sure to press down firmly on the fillet to ensure the cure mixture adheres well and penetrates the fish evenly. This will help achieve a consistent flavor throughout the salmon.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Gin and Tonic Cured Salmon

Prepare the cure in advance: Mix the sugar, salt, lemon juice, lemon zest, gin, beetroot, and dill the night before to save time on the day of preparation.

Use a food processor: Chop the beetroot, onion, coriander, and ginger quickly by using a food processor instead of chopping by hand.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all your ingredients like olive oil, tonic water, honey, and cornstarch before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Double the recipe: Make extra pickle and cured salmon to have ready-to-eat meals for the next few days.

Substitute Ingredients For Gin and Tonic Cured Salmon Recipe

salmon fillet - Substitute with trout fillet: Trout has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a good alternative for curing.
beetroot - Substitute with carrot: Carrots can provide a similar earthy sweetness and vibrant color.
fresh dill - Substitute with fresh fennel fronds: Fennel fronds have a similar anise-like flavor that complements the fish.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest provides a citrusy aroma and flavor, though slightly sweeter.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it a good alternative for curing.
caster sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be used similarly, though it may take slightly longer to dissolve.
gin - Substitute with vodka: Vodka provides a neutral spirit base that won't overpower the other flavors.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a good alternative for pickling.
onion - Substitute with shallot: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that works well in pickling.
tonic water - Substitute with club soda: Club soda provides the necessary carbonation without the added sweetness.
fresh coriander - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley offers a similar fresh, herbaceous note.
red chilli - Substitute with jalapeño: Jalapeños provide a similar heat level and can be used in the same way.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
white wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar acidity with a slightly fruitier flavor.
fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used in smaller quantities to provide a similar spicy warmth.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and viscosity.
corn flour - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening agent in the same way as corn flour.
lime zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest provides a similar citrusy aroma and flavor.
sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it a good alternative for curing.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat and flavor profile, though slightly milder.

Presentation Ideas for Gin and Tonic Cured Salmon

Choose a pristine white plate: The clean, white background will make the vibrant colors of the salmon and pickle pop, enhancing the visual appeal.
Create a base with the salad: Arrange a small bed of mixed greens in the center of the plate. Use baby arugula, watercress, and microgreens for a delicate and fresh look.
Layer the salmon slices: Thinly slice the cured salmon at an angle and fan the slices out over the salad base. Ensure the slices overlap slightly to create a cascading effect.
Add the lime tonic pickle: Spoon a small amount of the lime tonic pickle on top of the salmon. The bright colors and textures will add a dynamic contrast to the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh dill and coriander over the top. This will add a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
Drizzle with olive oil: Lightly drizzle extra virgin olive oil around the plate to add a touch of sheen and richness.
Add a citrus twist: Place a thin slice of lemon or lime on the side of the plate for an extra pop of color and a hint of acidity.
Finish with edible flowers: Garnish with a few edible flowers like nasturtiums or violets to elevate the presentation and add a touch of elegance.

Essential Tools for Making Cured Salmon

Mixing bowl: To combine the sugar, salt, lemon juice, lemon zest, gin, beetroot, and dill for the salmon cure.
Cling-film: To cover the salmon with the cure and keep it airtight while refrigerating.
Refrigerator: To store the salmon while it cures for 24 hours.
Saucepan: To mix and heat the ingredients for the lime tonic pickle.
Airtight jar or container: To store the lime tonic pickle after it has been cooked and cooled.
Knife: To slice the salmon thinly at an angle after curing.
Cutting board: To provide a stable surface for slicing the salmon.
Kitchen roll: To pat the salmon dry after rinsing off the cure.
Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure out the ingredients for both the salmon cure and the lime tonic pickle.
Grater: To zest the lemon and lime.
Juicer: To extract juice from the lemon and lime.
Stirring spoon: To mix the ingredients in the saucepan.
Salad bowl: To serve the cured salmon with salad.

Storing and Freezing Cured Salmon

Once the salmon has been cured and sliced, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store the cured salmon in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
If you want to keep the cured salmon for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap the sliced salmon tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 1 month.
To thaw frozen cured salmon, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, consume the salmon within 2 days.
The lime tonic pickle can be stored in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making the pickle even more delicious.
Note: Cured salmon is best consumed fresh for optimal flavor and texture. While freezing is an option, it may slightly affect the quality of the salmon compared to freshly cured and sliced salmon.

Interesting Facts About Gin and Tonic Cured Salmon

A unique aspect of this gin and tonic cured salmon recipe is the use of beetroot, which not only adds a vibrant color to the salmon but also imparts a subtle earthy sweetness, complementing the citrusy and botanical notes from the gin and lemon zest.

Is Making Cured Salmon at Home Cost-Effective?

This gin and tonic cured salmon recipe offers a luxurious twist on traditional cured salmon. While the ingredients like gin, beetroot, and fresh dill add a gourmet touch, they can be pricey. The pickle ingredients, including tonic water, white wine vinegar, and fresh ginger, also contribute to the cost. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $40-$50. Considering the unique flavors and high-quality ingredients, the overall verdict is a 7/10 for cost-effectiveness.

Is Gin and Tonic Cured Salmon Healthy?

The gin and tonic cured salmon recipe is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the richness of salmon with the tanginess of gin and tonic. From a nutritional standpoint, this recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects.

On the positive side, salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health. The recipe also includes fresh ingredients like beetroot, dill, coriander, ginger, and lime, which provide various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The use of olive oil in the pickle is another healthy addition, as it contains monounsaturated fats that can help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels.

However, the recipe also contains a significant amount of salt and sugar, which can be detrimental to health if consumed in excess. The curing process involves covering the salmon in a mixture of salt, sugar, and other ingredients, which can lead to a high sodium content in the final dish. Additionally, the pickle contains added sugar in the form of caster sugar and honey, which can contribute to excessive sugar intake.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of salt and sugar used in the curing mixture. Experiment with using less of each while still maintaining the desired flavor and texture.
Instead of using caster sugar in the pickle, opt for a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract, which have little to no impact on blood sugar levels.
Increase the proportion of fresh herbs and spices in the recipe, as they can add flavor without the need for excessive salt or sugar.
Serve the cured salmon with a variety of colorful vegetables to boost the overall nutrient content of the meal.
Use whole grain crackers or bread as an accompaniment to the salmon, rather than refined carbohydrates.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of the gin and tonic cured salmon while also supporting your overall health and well-being.

Editor's Opinion on This Cured Salmon Recipe

This gin and tonic cured salmon recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. The beetroot and dill cure imparts a vibrant color and fresh taste, while the gin adds a sophisticated twist. The lime tonic pickle, with its zesty and slightly spicy notes, complements the salmon beautifully. The process is straightforward, though it requires patience for the curing time. Overall, it's an impressive dish that would make a stunning centerpiece for any meal, showcasing both creativity and culinary finesse.

Enhance Your Gin and Tonic Cured Salmon Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Crispy Potato Rösti: Imagine pairing the vibrant gin and tonic cured salmon with a golden, crispy potato rösti. The crunchy texture of the rösti perfectly complements the tender, flavorful salmon, creating a delightful contrast that will leave your taste buds dancing. The subtle earthiness of the potatoes enhances the beetroot and dill notes in the cure, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

Avocado and Mango Salsa: Brighten up your plate with a refreshing avocado and mango salsa. The creamy avocado and juicy mango bring a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the citrusy and herbal notes of the salmon. The salsa's vibrant colors and fresh flavors add a burst of sunshine to your appetizer, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Herbed Quinoa Salad: For a wholesome and nutritious side, serve the gin and tonic cured salmon with a herbed quinoa salad. The nutty quinoa combined with fresh herbs like parsley and mint creates a light and refreshing accompaniment. The salad's subtle flavors allow the salmon to shine while adding a satisfying texture and a boost of nutrients.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Elevate your appetizer with the elegant simplicity of grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon zest. The smoky char of the asparagus pairs wonderfully with the zesty and aromatic salmon. This side dish adds a touch of sophistication and a burst of freshness, making it a perfect match for the cured fish.

Cucumber and Radish Salad: Keep things light and crisp with a cucumber and radish salad. The cool, crunchy cucumber and peppery radish slices provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the gin and tonic cured salmon. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, this salad adds a delightful crunch and a pop of color to your appetizer spread.

Similar Recipes to Gin and Tonic Cured Salmon

Beetroot And Dill Gravlax: Transform your salmon into a Scandinavian delight with a beetroot and dill cure. This vibrant dish is perfect for any appetizer spread, offering a burst of color and flavor.

Citrus-Cured Salmon: Infuse your salmon with the zesty flavors of orange and lemon. This refreshing cure brings a bright, tangy twist to your appetizer table, ideal for summer gatherings.

Whiskey-Cured Salmon: Add a smoky, rich depth to your salmon with a whiskey cure. This sophisticated appetizer pairs beautifully with a variety of cheeses and crackers, making it a hit at any party.

Herb-Crusted Salmon: Coat your salmon in a fragrant mix of fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for showcasing the natural flavors of the fish.

Spicy Sriracha Salmon: Give your salmon a kick with a sriracha and honey glaze. This sweet and spicy combination is sure to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests.

Main Course and Dessert Pairings for Cured Salmon

Main Courses:

Herb-Crusted Rack Of Lamb: Elevate your dining experience with a herb-crusted rack of lamb. This dish features a succulent rack of lamb coated in a fragrant mixture of fresh rosemary, thyme, and parsley. The lamb is seared to perfection and then roasted until tender. Serve it with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and roasted seasonal vegetables for a meal that is both elegant and satisfying. The combination of the herb crust and the juicy lamb creates a symphony of flavors that will impress any guest.

Pan-Seared Duck Breast With Cherry Sauce: Indulge in the rich flavors of pan-seared duck breast with cherry sauce. The duck breast is seasoned with salt and pepper, then seared until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender. The dish is elevated with a sweet and tangy cherry sauce made from fresh cherries, red wine, and a touch of honey. Serve the duck breast with a side of creamy polenta and sautéed spinach to create a balanced and luxurious meal. The juicy duck paired with the luscious cherry sauce makes for an unforgettable dining experience.

Desserts:

Lemon Tart: Indulge in a Lemon Tart that combines a buttery, flaky crust with a zesty, creamy lemon filling. The tartness of the lemon is perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness, creating a refreshing and delightful dessert. Top it off with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor. This dessert is perfect for those who love a citrusy twist and a light, yet satisfying, treat.

Chocolate Mousse: Experience the decadence of a Chocolate Mousse that is rich, velvety, and utterly indulgent. This dessert features a smooth and airy texture, with deep chocolate flavors that melt in your mouth. Garnish with a few fresh berries and a mint leaf for a touch of elegance. Ideal for chocolate lovers, this dessert offers a luxurious finish to any meal, leaving you craving for more.

Why trust this Gin and Tonic Cured Salmon Recipe:

This recipe combines the classic flavors of gin and tonic with the rich taste of salmon. The beetroot and dill cure adds a unique twist, while the lime tonic pickle provides a refreshing contrast. The detailed instructions ensure that even novice cooks can achieve a gourmet result. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and straightforward process, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

Want to share your experience making this unique gin and tonic cured salmon recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and let us know how it turned out!

FAQ:

How long does the salmon need to cure?

The salmon needs to cure in the fridge for 24 hours. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate and the texture to firm up.

Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

While salmon is traditional for this type of curing, you can experiment with other fatty fish like trout or mackerel. Just keep in mind that the curing time might vary.

Do I need to use beetroot in the cure?

The beetroot adds a beautiful color and a subtle earthy flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip it or replace it with another vegetable like grated carrots.

How should I store the cured salmon?

After rinsing off the cure and patting the salmon dry, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure to keep it well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out.

What can I serve with the cured salmon?

The cured salmon pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad and the lime tonic pickle from the recipe. You can also serve it with rye bread, cream cheese, and capers for a more traditional approach.