Name: Instant Pot caramel salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp olive oil; 1/3 cup light brown sugar; 2 Tbsp light brown sugar; 3 Tbsp fish sauce; 1 Tbsp soy sauce; 2 tsp soy sauce; 1 thumb-sized piece ginger (peeled and finely grated (about 1 tsp)); 1 unit lime (finely grated zest & juice); 1 tsp freshly ground white pepper; 3 Tbsp water; 3 cloves garlic (very finely sliced); 1 unit red chili (finely sliced (optional)); Chopped spring onions (to serve); Fresh coriander (to serve); Extra wedges of lime

If you’re on the hunt for a quick yet impressive dish that bursts with flavor, look no further than this Instant Pot caramel salmon. This recipe combines the rich flavors of fish sauce and brown sugar with a hint of zesty lime and ginger, resulting in a dish that is both sweet and savory. Perfectly cooked salmon, finished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime, makes this meal a delightful centerpiece for any dinner table. Plus, the Instant Pot makes it nearly foolproof and incredibly fast—a win-win for busy home cooks!

Why It Works Every Time

Cooking salmon in the Instant Pot is a game-changer. The pressure cooking method locks in moisture and flavors, resulting in incredibly tender fish. The caramelization from the sugar creates a beautiful glaze that enhances the dish’s overall appeal. With the right balance of ingredients, you can achieve a perfect dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this Instant Pot caramel salmon will impress everyone at your table.

What Goes Into Instant Pot caramel salmon

To create this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 Tbsp olive oil
1/3 cup + 2 Tbsp light brown sugar
3 Tbsp fish sauce
1 Tbsp + 2 tsp (25ml) soy sauce
1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and finely grated (about 1 tsp)
Finely grated zest & juice of 1 lime
1 tsp freshly ground white pepper
3 Tbsp water
3 garlic cloves, very finely sliced
1 red chili, finely sliced (optional)
4 middle cut salmon fillets, skin on or off (180g – 230g each), pin-boned
Chopped spring onions to serve
Fresh coriander to serve
Extra wedges of lime

Must-Have Equipment

To whip up this Instant Pot caramel salmon, you’ll need the following tools:

Instant Pot: This is the star of the show, allowing you to cook the salmon quickly while infusing it with flavors.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
Grater: For the ginger and lime zest, ensuring you get the most flavor from these ingredients.
Sharp knife: For slicing garlic and chili, as well as portioning the salmon fillets.
Cutting board: To safely prepare your ingredients.

From Start to Finish: Instant Pot caramel salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, light brown sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, grated ginger, lime zest, lime juice, white pepper, and water. This mixture will serve as both a marinade and cooking sauce for the salmon.

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable bag and pour the marinade over the fish. Ensure each piece is well coated. Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 15 minutes for enhanced flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Using the sauté function on your Instant Pot, add a bit of olive oil and sauté the finely sliced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. If using, add the sliced red chili for a bit of heat.

Step 4: Add Salmon to the Pot

Carefully place the marinated salmon fillets into the Instant Pot on top of the sautéed garlic. Pour any remaining marinade over the fish.

Step 5: Cook the Salmon

Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the vent is set to sealing. Set to pressure cook on high for 3-4 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets.

Step 6: Quick Release

Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release by carefully turning the vent to venting. This will release the steam. Open the lid once the pressure is fully released.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Using a spatula, carefully remove the salmon fillets from the pot. Drizzle the cooked marinade over the top. Garnish with chopped spring onions, fresh coriander, and extra lime wedges for serving.

Make It Fit Your Plan

This Instant Pot caramel salmon is versatile and can be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce to ensure the recipe is suitable for those avoiding gluten.
Low-Carb: Reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute with a low-carb sweetener.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute salmon with firm tofu, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili to suit your heat preference, or omit it altogether for a milder dish.

Don’t Do This

When preparing your Instant Pot caramel salmon, avoid these common pitfalls:

Don’t skip the marinating step: Marinating enhances the flavors and ensures the salmon is savory and delicious.
Don’t overcook the salmon: Cooking for too long can lead to dry fish; stick to the recommended cooking time.
Don’t rush the pressure release: Allowing the pressure to release naturally ensures the salmon stays tender.
Don’t forget to adjust the recipe for thickness: Thicker fillets may require additional cooking time—keep an eye on them!

Storage Pro Tips

If you have leftovers of your Instant Pot caramel salmon, here’s how to store them properly:

Refrigeration: Store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: If you’ve got extra, you can freeze the cooked salmon. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or lime juice to maintain moisture.

Ask & Learn

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Yes! You can cook the salmon in a skillet on the stovetop or bake it in the oven. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, keeping a close watch to avoid overcooking.

What sides pair well with this salmon?

This Instant Pot caramel salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time slightly. Ensure that the salmon is fully thawed for optimal flavor and texture.

What can I substitute for fish sauce?

For a different flavor profile, you can use coconut aminos or a homemade mixture of soy sauce and a bit of vinegar or lime juice.

Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe for Instant Pot caramel salmon, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Try serving it at your next family dinner or for a cozy date night at home. The combination of sweet and savory flavors will surely impress, and the ease of preparation means you can focus on enjoying the moments around the table. Happy cooking!