Korean-Style Grilled Salmon in Sweet Bulgogi Marinade Recipe
Salmon Bulgogi is a modern Korean-inspired dish that combines tender salmon fillets with a sweet and savory bulgogi marinade. This fusion recipe highlights the rich umami flavors of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger balanced by sweetness from honey and sugar. Whether broiled, baked, or pan-fried, the salmon absorbs the marinade’s depth, resulting in a quick, flavorful, and satisfying seafood meal that is both healthy and easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: Korean Fusion
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 1 pound salmon fillet, preferably with skin
Marinade
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine (mirin) or white wine
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or additional sugar if preferred)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Remove any bones from the salmon fillet and cut the fillet into ¾ to 1-inch thick slices to ensure even cooking and optimal marinade absorption.
- Make the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, thoroughly mix the soy sauce, rice wine (or white wine), sesame oil, lemon juice, sugar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper until the sugar and honey are fully dissolved, creating a well-balanced bulgogi marinade.
- Marinate the Salmon: Add the salmon slices to the marinade and coat each piece evenly. Let the salmon marinate for 20 to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse deeply; you can marinate longer if preferred for a stronger taste.
- Choose Cooking Method: You may broil, bake, or pan-fry the salmon based on your preference:
- Broiling: Preheat your broiler and position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source. Line a broiler pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Broil the salmon for 3 to 4 minutes until the surface is lightly charred and the fish is cooked through. Monitor carefully to avoid overcooking.
- Baking: Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Place the marinated salmon pieces on a parchment- or foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 4 to 5 minutes until the salmon is cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
- Pan-Frying: Heat a lightly oiled non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon slices for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until the salmon is browned and cooked through but still moist inside.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing honey or sugar based on your preference.
- For best flavor, avoid overcooking the salmon as it can become dry; the fish should flake easily but remain moist.
- Substitute rice wine with white wine if mirin is unavailable.
- Salmon skin can be left on for extra texture and nutrients or removed based on preference.
- Use fresh minced garlic and ginger for the best aromatic flavor.
- Serve with steamed rice and Korean side dishes like kimchi for an authentic meal experience.
Keywords: Korean salmon recipe, bulgogi marinade, grilled salmon, Korean seafood, quick dinner, healthy salmon dish
