Ora King Salmon is a premium variety of King Salmon (also known as Chinook Salmon), known for its rich flavor, delicate texture, and high fat content, which makes it perfect for grilling, pan-searing, baking, or even sushi. Ora King Salmon is farmed sustainably in the pristine waters of New Zealand, and it is often considered one of the best-tasting salmons in the world.
How to Cook Ora King Salmon:
Ora King Salmon is versatile, and because of its marbling, it remains moist and tender even when cooked at high temperatures. Here are a few popular cooking methods for Ora King Salmon:
1. Pan-Seared Ora King Salmon:
Ingredients:
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2 Ora King Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
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Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
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1-2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
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1-2 sprigs fresh herbs (optional, such as thyme or rosemary)
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1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
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Heat the Pan: Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat and add the olive oil or butter.
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Sear the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets, skin-side down (if skin-on), in the pan. Sear for 4-5 minutes on the skin side until it becomes crispy.
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Flip and Cook: Flip the fillets over and cook for another 2-3 minutes for medium-rare or longer if you prefer more doneness.
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Finish and Serve: Add fresh herbs to the pan and drizzle with lemon juice. Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
2. Baked Ora King Salmon:
Ingredients:
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2 Ora King Salmon fillets
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Salt and pepper
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Lemon slices or wedges
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Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Season the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over the fillets, then season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs if using.
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Bake the Salmon: Place lemon slices over the fillets and bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
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Serve: Serve with roasted vegetables or your favorite side dishes.
3. Grilled Ora King Salmon:
Grilling enhances the smoky flavor of the Ora King Salmon. Here's how to do it:
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Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
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Season the Salmon: Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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Grill the Salmon: Place the fillets on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your liking (medium-rare is recommended).
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Serve: Serve the grilled salmon with a side of grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
4. Ora King Salmon Sushi or Sashimi:
If you enjoy raw fish, Ora King Salmon is perfect for sushi or sashimi. Simply slice the fillet thinly and serve it with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.
Serving Suggestions:
Ora King Salmon pairs wonderfully with many side dishes, including:
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Roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes.
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Rice: A side of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or wild rice.
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Salads: A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette or a creamy avocado salad.
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Potatoes: Mashed potatoes or crispy roasted potatoes complement the richness of the salmon.
Health Benefits:
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Rich in Omega-3s: Ora King Salmon is packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, brain function, and reduce inflammation.
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High in Protein: It's an excellent source of lean protein, making it a great option for muscle building and repair.
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Vitamin D: Salmon provides a good amount of vitamin D, essential for bone health and immune function.
Ora King Salmon is an indulgent and delicious fish that's perfect for special occasions or a luxurious everyday meal. If you'd like more recipe ideas or tips on cooking it, feel free to ask!
JD MEATS & SEAFOOD
