Whole roast salmon in a salt cover is a classic Mediterranean dish that never fails to impress. This technique of cooking fish has been used for centuries and is popular in many coastal regions around the world. It’s a great way to keep fish moist and tender while adding just the right amount of seasoning.
I have learned this recipe from a local chef in Malta. With its long history of fishing and seafood cuisine, Malta is a perfect place to discover traditional techniques like this.
So, how do you make whole roast salmon in a salt cover? It’s surprisingly simple! Here’s what you’ll need:
- One whole salmon, gutted and scaled (or any fresh fish of your choice)
- Coarse sea salt
- 3 egg whites
- Fresh herbs (optional)
- Lemon slices (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Whisk your egg whites to semi stiff peaks and mix it with salt until it forms a cement like mixture
- Take a large baking dish or tray and spread a layer of salt mix on the bottom. The salt should be at least 1 cm deep.
- Place the salmon on top of the salt bed. If desired, stuff the cavity of the fish with fresh herbs or lemon slices.
- Cover the entire fish with a layer of salt mix, making sure that every part of the fish is completely covered. The salt should be at least 1 cm deep.
- Roast the fish in the oven for about 20 minutes per pound (450 g) of fish. For example, if you have a 3-pound (1.4 kg) fish, roast it for about 60 minutes.
- Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Using a spoon or a knife, crack open the salt crust and carefully remove it from the fish.
- Serve the fish hot, with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and your favorite side dishes.
The salt crust will help to keep the fish moist and tender, while also seasoning it perfectly. And don’t worry about the fish being too salty – the salt crust will form a seal around the fish, preventing excess salt from getting inside. Chef in Malta actually poured brandy on top of the salt shell and lit it on fire, however I do not recommend it at home! 🙂
Once you’ve mastered this recipe with salmon, feel free to experiment with other types of fish. This technique works well with any fish that is suitable for roasting, such as sea bass, snapper, or trout.
Overall, whole roast salmon in a salt cover is a delicious and impressive dish that is sure to impress your guests. And thanks to its simplicity and versatility, it’s also a great option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. So, give it a try and enjoy!
Baking salmon in a salt crust creates a natural cave that helps the salmon retain maximum moisture as it cooks, as well as imparting a very delicate seasoning. It’s not only a showstopper, you’ll get the most perfectly cooked flaky fish, too
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