Beet Cured Salmon (with or without alcohol)
Fresh salmon is cured to create a texture similar to smoked salmon with a hint of sweet and earthy flavor. It's a twist on classic gravlax that can be made with or without vodka or gin. It's ideal for a brunch table, for sandwiches, as an appetizer or light lunch with a salad.
Servings 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup grated raw beets
- 3 tablespoon rock salt
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons horseradish
- 1 teaspoon crushed coriander pods
- ⅓ teaspoon crushed white peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon packed fresh dill or ½ teaspoon dried dill
- ¼ cup vodka or gin optional
- 1 teaspoon juniper berries if using alcohol
- 1 pound whole salmon fillet with skin and boneless
Instructions
- Place 1 cup grated raw beets, 3 tablespoon rock salt, ¼ cup sugar, 2 teaspoons horseradish, 1 teaspoon crushed coriander pods, ⅓ teaspoon crushed white peppercorns, 1 tablespoon packed fresh dill, ¼ cup vodka or gin (if using) and 1 teaspoon juniper berries (if using) into a blender jar or a bowl if using an immersion blender (my choice). Process until the mixture is smooth and even-colored.
- Cover a food container or shallow bowl of suitable size with plastic wrap with enough overhang to fold and wrap it completely later. Transfer the beet mixture and smooth it out.
- Wash and dry 1 pound whole salmon fillet. Place it, skin side up, on the beet mixture and press down so that all of the salmon flesh is in contact with the beets. Close the plastic wrap over the salmon and refrigerate for 48 hours.
- After two days, take out the salmon from the fridge, remove the wrap and beetroot mixture and carefully wash the fish under tap water. Dry it carefully with paper towels.
- Slice thinly and serve with lemon wedges, chopped dill, sour cream and rye bread or crackers. Use it for salmon bagels and open-faced sandwiches.
Notes
Storage: Wrap gravlax tightly in plastic wrap or vacuum-seal it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it wrapped and in a well-sealed container for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before consumption.
Vodka or gin: Use any type you regularly buy or have at home. It will not taste of alcohol.
