Everything You Need to Know About Sockeye Salmon
First-of-the-season sockeye salmon
Enjoy the first-of-the-season sockeye salmon. It is line-caught in the Pacific and Ocean Wise recommended. This local catch comes with our Fresh Guarantee, ensuring freshness that you can trust.
What is the difference between sockeye salmon and coho salmon?
While sockeye and coho salmon are both types of Pacific salmon species, they have their own unique qualities. Sockeye salmon is known for its robust, deep red flesh and strong flavour. Its firm texture holds up well in a variety of cooking methods. Coho offers milder, slightly sweet taste and lighter-coloured filet. It is a great choice for those who prefer a subtler taste and tender texture makes it ideal for baking or pan-searing.
What is the best way to cook sockeye salmon?
Sockeye salmon can be prepared in a variety of ways, each method enhances its rich, robust flavour. Grilling is a popular option because the high heat caramelizes the surface while locking in moisture, perfect for fillets with the skin on. Baking sockeye in the oven produces a tender, juicy result. Pan-searing is another quick method, giving the fish a crispy exterior while keeping the inside flaky. Sockeye also responds well to smoking, which intensifies its flavour and creates a savoury, slightly sweet delicacy ideal for salads, spreads, or snacks.
What to serve with sockeye salmon
When looking for pairings, be sure to choose one that complements its bold taste. Bright, acidic flavours like lemon, capers, or a dill yogurt sauce help cut through the richness of the fish. When it comes to side dishes, roasted or grilled vegetables, like asparagus, Brussels sprouts or zucchini, make excellent accompaniments. For starches try wild rice, quinoa, or garlic mashed potatoes. Fresh salads with citrus vinaigrette and arugula or fennel also work well to balance the flavours.
What wines go well with sockeye salmon?
Due to its pronounced flavour, sockeye salmon pairs well with both white and red wines. If you prefer white, try pairing with a crisp, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc that will bring out the brightness, especially if you're using lemon or herbs on the salmon. If you're leaning toward spicy or Asian flavours, a dry Riesling is a great match, offering a hint of sweetness to balance the heat. Red wines like Pinot Noir are a classic pairing for sockeye. Their soft tannins and red berry notes don't overpower the dish but will add more depth, especially when grilled!
