Salmon Steamed over Cabbage

Salmon Steamed over Cabbage is a delightful and healthy dish that combines the delicate flavors of salmon with the natural sweetness of cabbage. This cooking method ensures that the salmon remains tender and moist while infusing it with the subtle aromas of the cabbage. This dish not only offers a beautiful presentation but also provides a nutritious and satisfying meal that is sure to please seafood lovers.

Serves: 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups choucroute, prepared or homemade (recipe below)
• 4 salmon filets
• Pepper and salt
• 1 tablespoon lumpfish caviar
• 1 cup chives, finely chopped

FOR HOMEMADE CHOUCROUTE:

• 3 tablespoons duck fat
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 small cabbage, thinly shredded
• 8 juniper berries
• Pepper
• 1 1/2 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup dry white wine

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. If making your own choucroute, this is a shortcut: heat the duck fat in a skillet and sauté onion until golden.
2. Add cabbage, juniper berries, pepper. Sauté 5 more minutes. Stir in stock and wine. Cover and simmer 1 hour or more, stirring occasionally, adding more liquid as needed.
3. If using prepared choucroute, rinse under running water and squeeze dry. Put choucroute in the bottom of a steamer and evenly lay salmon in the upper section. Cover.
4. Turn heat on, and cook 10 minutes, without turning salmon over this cooking method, called à unilateral, leaves the fish moist and tender.
5. Divide choucroute among warmed plates, place salmon on top.
6. Add pepper and salt to taste, and sprinkle with lumpfish caviar and chives. Serve.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Elegant Presentation: To serve Salmon Steamed over Cabbage, place a bed of steamed cabbage on a plate or platter. Carefully place the steamed salmon fillets on top of the cabbage, allowing the vibrant green color of the cabbage to contrast with the pink hue of the salmon. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley for a touch of freshness and a pop of color.
• Lemon Butter Sauce: Enhance the flavors of the salmon by drizzling it with a lemon butter sauce. Simply melt some butter in a saucepan, squeeze in fresh lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Pour the sauce over the salmon just before serving to add a tangy and buttery element to the dish.
• Side of Roasted Potatoes: Accompany the Salmon Steamed over Cabbage with a side of roasted potatoes. Cut the potatoes into wedges, toss them with olive oil, salt, and herbs of your choice, and roast them in the oven until golden and crispy. The potatoes will add a hearty element to the meal and provide a delicious complement to the tender salmon.
• Fresh Herb Salad: Serve a light and refreshing herb salad alongside the steamed salmon and cabbage. Combine fresh herbs such as mint, basil, and cilantro with mixed greens, cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes. Dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette made of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. The herb salad will provide a burst of freshness and complement the flavors of the salmon.
• Wine Pairing: Pair the Salmon Steamed over Cabbage with a crisp and light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines offer a refreshing acidity that complements the delicate flavors of the dish and balances the richness of the salmon.

When serving Salmon Steamed over Cabbage, encourage your guests to take in the aroma of the dish before savoring the tender salmon and the sweet flavors of the cabbage. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish creates a delightful culinary experience that celebrates the natural goodness of the ingredients. Enjoy this healthy and delicious meal with family and friends. Bon appétit!