Smoked Salmon

Smoked Salmon is an excellent preparation of Salmon which is basically a fillet that is first cured and then smoked hot or cold. This dish is a favorite item for people of Europe and America and because of the delicacy of the dish, smoked salmon has now become famous in almost all parts of the world.

Generally smoked salmon is presented with cheese or lime juice. The serving style differs with different countries. In Europe and America, smoked salmon is sliced thinly and then served with cheese, toast or even used in pasta sauces. Smoked salmon is widely used as an appetizer in various countries.

Salmon can be smoked in two modes. In hot smoking, the salmon is cooked perfectly and dried at 145 degrees to remove moisture. In cold smoking, salmon is only half cooked to 80 degrees and the raw taste is maintained. Hot smoked salmon is very safe to eat as it is completely cooked and free from any parasitic attack. On the other hand, cold smoked salmon must be frozen to control the development of parasites as it is only partially cooked. Cold smoked salmon is liked by many people and it is called a delicacy in European countries.

Though people are fascinated by the taste of smoked salmon, this dish does not appear in the regular menu as it is expensive. The rate of smoked salmon increases with the quality of salmon. Smoked wild salmon is expensive than smoked farm salmon. Commercial fishing of salmon is prohibited in many countries. But there is not much support for farm salmons as the chemicals that are used in the food for these salmons are considered unhealthy for human beings.

Today smoked salmon gift baskets are very popular. As this dish is expensive it is definitely a treat for your friends. People will really be surprised to see smoked salmon in your gift basket. There is no doubt that everybody will love smoked salmon and your gift basket is sure to bring joy.

Once you have decided to gift smoked salmon, you have to then decide on what to fill in your gift basket. The basic choice is the fillets. This preparation is a low cost option. Smoked salmon are excellent for breakfast, lunch, brunch or dinner. Lox when served cold is perfect for a fun filled breakfast. If you are to gift for a dinner, then serve smoked salmon warm. Smoked salmon sticks are the best gourmet snack. The flavor, color and the taste of smoked salmon is liked by people of all ages. Canned smoked salmon are now very popular among moms as they can make a meal in minutes. Canned smoked salmon are always fresh and you can freeze the remaining for your next meal.

Smoked salmon, apart from being a delicious preparation is also very good for the health of your heart. There are two types of fat that are accumulated in the human body. The accumulation of bad cholesterol leads to heart diseases whereas when more good fat are consumed they help prevent coronary heart diseases. Omega 3 fatty oils are very good for heart. Salmon is gifted with Omega 3 oils. Smoked salmon retains the fatty oils in their natural flavor and hence you can get adequate amount of good fat when you eat smoked salmon. Smoked salmon also contains Vitamin E. Vitamin E is an excellent anti oxidant that protects your heart. Smoked salmon are low in carbohydrates and ideal for dieting people too. Smoked salmon also reduces the chance of development of prostrate cancer for men.

One major problem with wild deep water fish is the presence of contaminants especially mercury in their body. But amazingly wild salmon is found to have very less percentage of mercury. Hence smoked wild salmon is always free from dangerous mercury. So next time you plan to buy a gift, try out smoked salmon gift baskets and enjoy your friends crying out in joy after looking at your gift.