Finnish Salmon Cooked on Birch Wood with Mustard Dill Sauce
This quintessential Nordic dish combines the rich flavors of salmon with aromatic birch wood smoke, complemented by a tangy mustard dill sauce.
Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Preparing the Salmon
- 1
Soak Birch Plank
Soak birch wood plank in water for at least 1 hour.
Tip: Ensure the plank is fully submerged during soaking to prevent burning.
- 2
Prepare Salmon
Pat dry salmon fillets and brush them lightly with olive oil.
- 3
Season Salmon
Season with salt and pepper.
Making the Mustard Dill Sauce
- 1
Combine Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, and white wine vinegar.
- 2
Emulsify Sauce
Slowly add olive oil while whisking to emulsify the sauce.
- 3
Finish and Season
Stir in the chopped dill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tip: Allow the sauce to rest for 10 minutes for flavors to meld.
How to Make Finnish Salmon Cooked on Birch Wood with Mustard Dill Sauce
Total time: 2 h 20 min · Yields 4 servings
- 1
Heat the Grill
Preheat the grill to medium heat (about 350°F/175°C).
- 2
Cook the Salmon
Place the soaked birch wood plank on the grill, then arrange the salmon fillets on top, skin side down. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.
- 3
Rest the Salmon
Let the salmon rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the grill.
Chef's Tips
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes, the sauce can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated.
What can I use instead of birch wood?
Cedar planks can be an alternative, but they will alter the flavor significantly.
Is there a substitute for fresh dill?
If fresh dill isn't available, use 1 tbsp dried dill for the sauce.
Can this be cooked in an oven instead of a grill?
Yes, bake the salmon on the plank in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
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