THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Oven-Roasted Salmon Nuggets with Bourbon and Brown Sugar
These crispy salmon nuggets are bursting with a sweet and smoky flavor thanks to a hint of bourbon and brown sugar. Perfect for a quick dinner or a tasty appetizer that everyone will love.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Oven-Roasted Salmon Nuggets with Bourbon and Brown Sugar
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by putting the peanuts into a large resealable bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin, meat mallet, or even the flat side of a can. Mix in some black pepper and set that aside.
02
Step 2
Next, melt the butter in a nonstick saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, bourbon, soy sauce, garlic, and onion powder. Let it come to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the sauce thickens into a syrupy glaze—this usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Take it off the heat and let it cool just enough so it’s still warm but not too hot, about five minutes.
03
Step 3
While the sauce is cooling, cut the thinner parts of the salmon fillets into strips and toss them in a small bowl with a little bit of the sauce to coat. Cut the thicker parts into 1-inch cubes and stir these into the rest of the sauce in the pan. Let everything sit for about 10 minutes so the flavors can soak in.
04
Step 4
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and grease a large glass baking dish with cooking spray. Arrange the salmon strips on one side of the dish and the cubes on the other, making sure each piece is coated with sauce but not crowded. Sprinkle the crushed peanuts and pepper mixture evenly over the top.
05
Step 5
Pop the dish into the oven and bake until the strips flake easily with a fork, around 5 to 6 minutes. Then, carefully remove those and keep baking the cubes for another 5 minutes or so until they’re flaky and cooked through. Enjoy!
Why you’ll love it
These bite-sized pieces offer a perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors. They cook quickly and stay tender inside with a slightly crispy outside. It’s a great way to enjoy salmon in a fun and flavorful way.
How to serve
Serve these nuggets with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a light meal. They also pair well with a tangy dipping sauce like a lemon aioli or a simple yogurt and herb dip. A side of rice or quinoa can round out the dish nicely.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or a toaster oven to keep the outside crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the nuggets soggy.
