The moment I whisked together the gochujang, honey, and soy sauce, I knew I was onto something special. The sweet and spicy aroma that filled my kitchen beckoned me to dive into this delightful culinary adventure. Gochujang Glazed Salmon with Sesame & Bok Choy is not just another weeknight dinner; it’s a vibrant dish that brings a taste of Korea to your table in under 30 minutes. The rich, buttery salmon is beautifully caramelized, enveloped in a sticky glaze that offers a punch of umami, while tender-crisp bok choy adds a refreshing crunch.
As someone who often finds themselves battling the same old dinner routines, this recipe has become my go-to solution. It impresses guests effortlessly yet is so simple that even novice cooks can recreate it with ease. Plus, the versatility of the ingredients allows for plenty of substitutions, so you can tailor it to your pantry’s contents or personal preferences. Trust me, this dish is about to become your new favorite weeknight meal!
Why is Gochujang Glazed Salmon with Sesame & Bok Choy a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Packed: The combination of sweet and spicy gochujang creates a glaze that elevates simple salmon to new heights.
Healthy Choice: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious, ensuring you feel great after every bite.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute gochujang with sriracha or use alternate greens like spinach or kale, allowing for personal flair.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and glossy glaze not only make for a mouthwatering meal but also create a stunning plate for guests.
If you’re looking to invigorate your dinner routine, try this Gochujang Glazed Salmon with bok choy—it promises to be a showstopper!
Gochujang Glazed Salmon Ingredients
• Note: Gather these simple ingredients to create a flavorful and easy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
For the Salmon
- Salmon Fillets – Provides richness and healthy fats; both fresh and thawed work well.
- Gochujang – Adds deep umami flavor, creating that sweet and spicy glaze; substitute with sriracha and miso paste if necessary.
- Honey – Enhances sweetness in the glaze, can be reduced for a milder flavor.
- Soy Sauce – Provides saltiness; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; fresh is preferable for the best taste.
For the Bok Choy
- Bok Choy – A nutrient-rich green that complements the salmon splendidly; broccolini, spinach, or kale are great substitutes.
- Sesame Oil – Infuses a nutty flavor into bok choy; can be replaced with olive oil if needed.
- Sesame Seeds – For garnish, providing delightful crunch and texture.
How to Make Gochujang Glazed Salmon with Sesame & Bok Choy
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfectly cooked salmon that’s moist on the inside and crispy on the outside.
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Whisk together gochujang, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic in a small bowl until smooth. This glaze will become your dish’s flavor powerhouse, combining sweet and spicy notes.
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Coat each salmon fillet generously with the gochujang glaze. Place the nicely coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring even cooking.
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Bake the salmon for approximately 12 minutes. Keep an eye on the fillets; they should flake easily when done but take them out just before they reach that point to avoid overcooking.
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Sauté bok choy in a large pan over high heat with sesame oil. Cook until tender yet crisp, which takes about 3 minutes. This quick cooking keeps the bok choy vibrant and delicious!
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Serve your beautifully glazed salmon garnished with sesame seeds, alongside the sautéed bok choy, for a colorful and appetizing meal.
Optional: Pair with a side of rice or quinoa for a heartier dinner.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Gochujang Glazed Salmon Variations
Customize your dish with delightful twists that will elevate your Gochujang Glazed Salmon into something uniquely yours.
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Spicy Kick: Add Red Pepper Flakes to the glaze for extra heat. Just a pinch will awaken your taste buds while complementing the original flavors beautifully.
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Sweetener Swap: Use Maple Syrup instead of honey for a vegan option and an added depth of flavor. The distinct taste of maple syrup pairs wonderfully with the rich salmon.
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Citrus Infusion: Add a splash of Lime Juice to the glaze for a refreshing zest. This brightens the dish and uplifts the overall flavor profile, perfect for those who love a citrusy kick.
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Nutty Delight: Sprinkle in some Chopped Nuts like almonds or cashews on the bok choy just before serving. This gives a lovely crunch and a nutty aroma that contrasts beautifully with the soft salmon.
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Garlic Boost: For garlic lovers, use Roasted Garlic instead of fresh in the glaze. It adds a sweet, caramelized flavor that deepens the umami experience in every bite.
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Herbaceous Note: Stir in some Chopped Fresh Herbs like cilantro or green onions before serving for a pop of freshness. This addition brightens the dish and adds a lovely visual appeal.
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Keto-Friendly: Replace the honey with Stevia or Erythritol to keep it low-carb without sacrificing sweetness. Enjoy your cherished flavors while sticking to dietary preferences.
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Alternative Greens: Swap Bok Choy for Swiss Chard or Collard Greens for a different texture. Each option adds its own charming taste, keeping your meal exciting and unique.
Make Ahead Options
These Gochujang Glazed Salmon with Sesame & Bok Choy are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the gochujang glaze up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant flavor. Additionally, the salmon can be coated with the glaze and refrigerated up to 3 hours before cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake the salmon as directed and sauté the bok choy right before serving to keep it crisp and fresh. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time—perfect for those busy weeknights!
Storage Tips for Gochujang Glazed Salmon with Sesame & Bok Choy
Fridge: Store any leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Make sure the salmon has cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: If you have extra salmon, freeze it before cooking. Wrap fillets tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the salmon in a preheated 325°F (163°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through. Sauté bok choy in a pan over medium heat for best results.
Serving Suggestions: For best texture, serve freshly cooked Gochujang Glazed Salmon with sautéed bok choy instead of reheating together, ensuring that each component retains its quality.
What to Serve with Gochujang Glazed Salmon with Sesame & Bok Choy?
Imagine a delightful feast that complements the sweet and spicy zing of your favorite Korean-inspired salmon.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This light, fluffy rice soaks up the glaze beautifully, balancing the dish’s strong flavors while adding a soft texture.
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Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Golden, crispy potatoes provide a comforting side that contrasts the tender salmon. Their hearty flavor rounds out the meal perfectly.
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Sesame Cucumber Salad: Refreshingly crunchy, this salad provides a crunch and tang that pairs wonderfully with the rich salmon, enhancing its vibrant flavors.
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Miso Soup: Warm and comforting, a light miso soup adds a delicate umami element, complementing the gochujang and bringing warmth to your table.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty, protein-packed quinoa offers a wholesome base that enhances the meal’s nutritional profile while adding delightful texture.
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Green Tea: This calming drink helps cleanse the palate, allowing you to fully appreciate the nuanced flavors of the salmon, making it a perfect pairing.
Expert Tips for Gochujang Glazed Salmon
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Perfect Timing: Check the salmon around 12 minutes to prevent overcooking. It should flake easily when done.
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Glaze Watch: If broiling, monitor closely for caramelization, as the glaze can burn quickly. Broil for a maximum of 2 minutes.
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Crisp Bok Choy: Sauté bok choy over high heat to maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
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Flavor Balance: Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your spice tolerance. You can reduce it and add more honey for a sweeter glaze.
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Substitution Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to experiment with alternate greens like spinach or kale to keep things fresh and exciting for your Gochujang Glazed Salmon dish.
Gochujang Glazed Salmon with Sesame & Bok Choy Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe salmon?
Absolutely! When picking salmon, look for fillets that are bright, moist, and firm to the touch. The flesh should have a vibrant pink or red color without any dark spots. Fresh salmon should smell like the ocean, not fishy. If buying whole fish, the eyes should be clear and bright.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the salmon has cooled down before sealing it to prevent condensation, which can affect its texture. For best quality when reheating, consider separate containers for the salmon and bok choy.
Can I freeze Gochujang Glazed Salmon?
Yes! To freeze, wrap uncooked salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. This way, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for best results, then cook as per the recipe.
How do I avoid overcooking the salmon?
To prevent overcooking, start checking the salmon around the 12-minute mark. It should flake easily when done but remove it from the oven just before it reaches that flakiness. This ensures it stays moist and tender. If you’re broiling, keep a close eye on it and limit broiling time to just 2 minutes.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Definitely! For those with gluten allergies, use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free. If you’re making it for pets, avoid sharing salmon dishes that include soy sauce and garlic, as these aren’t good for them. Always consider any allergies to fish or sesame when serving this recipe.
How can I switch up the greens?
The great thing about this recipe is its versatility! If bok choy isn’t available, you can substitute it with broccolini, spinach, or kale for a different texture and flavor. Simply follow the same sautéing method for these greens to keep them tender-crisp.
Gochujang Glazed Salmon with Sesame & Bok Choy in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Whisk together gochujang, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic in a small bowl until smooth.
- Coat each salmon fillet generously with the gochujang glaze and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the salmon for approximately 12 minutes, ensuring they flake easily when done.
- Sauté bok choy in a large pan over high heat with sesame oil until tender yet crisp, about 3 minutes.
- Serve the glazed salmon garnished with sesame seeds alongside the sautéed bok choy.