Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) white miso paste (Shiro miso)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) sake or dry sherry (optional, can sub with water)
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of kick)
  • 2 salmon fillets (6-8 ounces/170-225g each), skin on or off, pin bones removed
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil or neutral cooking oil, for searing (if using skin-on)
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, miso paste, honey (or maple syrup), sake (or sherry/water), rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk or mix with a fork until smooth and well combined.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Spread the miso butter evenly over the top of each fillet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
  4. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through. Reduce heat to medium-low. Spread the miso butter over the top of each fillet and let it melt for about 1 minute, basting the salmon with the butter.
  5. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear salmon for 3-4 minutes per side or until the sides are cooked. After that reduce heat to low and spread the miso butter over the top of each fillet and let it melt for about 1 minute, basting the salmon with the butter.
  6. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using). Serve immediately this delicious miso butter salmon.