The first time she gave it to us, I was truly impressed.
Its not as hard as you think.
In fact, its easy!
If you are making one smaller piece of salmon, wrap it tightly in the plastic wrap and weight it down with something heavy.
A few years ago, I thought Id give her recipe a try before my annual holiday party.
I was a little worried; homemade gravlax seemed really technical.
Its a keeper, fun to make, easy, too.
It is forgiving and can be tailored to your own sweet or salty preference.
Plan on this keeping, after its cure, for around 5 days.
It is one of those magic recipes, and it always reminds me of this kind woman!
Now, take a deep breath, it really is easy.
For a large amount to serve at a party and give away to friends, use the whole recipe.
For a smaller gathering, just ask your fish monger for a 1 1/2 lb.
filet of salmon, thick cut.
Pat Reads Holiday Gravlax, (but you’re free to make it any time!)
1 cup kosher salt
1 cup sugar
2, 1-1/2 to 2 lb.
Check each filet for bones, rubbing your fingers across the top, removing any you find with tweezers.
Mix salt and sugarand about a cup of the dill, chopped.
Divide and rub both filets with this mixture.
Sprinkle each liberally with the cognac; you may need a bit more.
Line a large baking sheetor roasting pan with plastic wrap.
Place the first filet in the pan, skin side down.
If using blackberries, add them all now.
Place half the remaining dillor other herbs evenly over the entire surface, trying to cover it.
Use only the zest.
Double wrap these together as tight as possible, then place a second baking sheet on top.
The next day,remove the weights and turn the wrapped fish bundle over.
Drain the pan; there will be a lot of moisture accumulated.
Replace the tray and weights.
Repeat this the next day.
On the third day, its ready!
Remove the salmon and rinse it to remove excess salt.
Pat dry with a paper towel.
You are ready to enjoy!
It should cut like butter!
Serve with whatever accompaniments you desire.
It really is easy.
Copyright 2018 or current year, Dorothy Grover-Read
