Orange Juice Bourbon Salmon Bites Recipe
These Orange Juice Bourbon Salmon Bites offer a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender salmon pieces glazed with a caramelized orange bourbon sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or a savory snack, these bites are quick to prepare and packed with a rich, tangy taste.
- Author: Yana
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 6-8 bites per serving) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Salmon Bites
- 1 pound salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
Marinade & Glaze
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce if using, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk together until the sugar is dissolved to create a sweet and tangy glaze.
- Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon bites in a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them. Allow them to marinate for 15 to 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat the Cooking Surface: Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil to lightly coat the pan.
- Cook the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade, reserving the liquid. Place the salmon pieces in the hot pan in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, gently turning the bites to develop a caramelized sear.
- Glaze and Caramelize: Once the salmon is mostly cooked through, reduce heat to medium-low and pour the reserved marinade over the salmon. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, spooning the glaze over the bites frequently until the sauce thickens and caramelizes, coating the salmon beautifully.
- Serve: Remove the salmon bites from the pan and transfer to a serving dish. Optionally garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for color and added freshness. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with additional orange juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
- Ensure not to overcook the salmon to keep it tender and moist.
- These bites can also be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through cooking.
- Serve with toothpicks for an easy appetizer at parties.
Keywords: salmon bites, bourbon salmon, orange glaze, appetizer, seafood, caramelized salmon, bourbon glaze