Whiskey Glazed Salmon from Yard House features tender, perfectly seared salmon fillets brushed with a sweet and smoky whiskey glaze, garnished with fresh herbs, and served with a vibrant side of seasonal vegetables, delivering a harmonious blend of rich flavors and a glossy, caramelized finish.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Fish spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Basting brush
- Tongs
- Sheet pan (optional, for resting or baking)
- Nonstick skillet or grill pan
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- Sea salt
- Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup whiskey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Assorted seasonal vegetables
Ensure the salmon fillets are fresh and evenly sized for consistent cooking and optimal texture. Use a good-quality whiskey to enhance the glaze's smoky sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavor of the fish. Fresh garlic and herbs contribute significantly to the depth of flavor, so avoid pre-minced or dried alternatives when possible. Measure your brown sugar and soy sauce carefully to maintain the perfect balance between sweetness and umami in the glaze. If you want to recreate the Whiskey Glazed Salmon from Yard House at home, following these ingredient tips will bring you close to the restaurant's rich, caramelized finish and vibrant presentation.
Instructions
- Preheat nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- Season salmon fillets with sea salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in skillet.
- Place salmon fillets, skin side down, in skillet. Sear for 3–4 minutes.
- Flip salmon fillets using fish spatula; cook another 2–3 minutes.
- Remove salmon; set aside on sheet pan or plate.
- In small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
- Mince garlic with chef’s knife and cutting board; add to saucepan. Sauté 30 seconds.
- Carefully pour in whiskey; simmer 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Whisk in brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer glaze, whisking occasionally, until thickened (3–5 minutes).
- Brush both sides of salmon fillets generously with whiskey glaze using basting brush.
- Return glazed salmon to skillet or broil briefly to caramelize as desired.
- Toss assorted seasonal vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté or roast vegetables until just tender.
- Transfer salmon and vegetables to serving platter.
- Garnish salmon with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Substitution
Whiskey Glazed Salmon from Yard House copycat menu brings together smoky whiskey, brown sugar, and smoky paprika to create a rich glaze that perfectly complements tender salmon fillets. You can substitute whiskey with bourbon or a dark rum if preferred, maintaining the smoky sweetness in the glaze. If fresh salmon isn't available, steelhead trout or Arctic char are excellent alternatives due to similar texture and flavor profiles. When cooking, use a nonstick skillet or grill pan to achieve a nicely seared crust without sticking. Be sure to baste the salmon frequently with the glaze to build layers of caramelization and a glossy finish.
Tips
Ensure the salmon fillets are thoroughly patted dry to achieve a crispy sear and prevent sticking during cooking. When making the whiskey glaze, allow the alcohol to simmer long enough to reduce properly, which balances the sweetness and smokiness without overpowering. Use a fish spatula for gentle flipping to keep the fillets intact and avoid breaking the skin. For the best flavor, brush the glaze generously on both sides and consider a brief broil to caramelize the finish, enhancing the dish's glossy texture.
Nutritions
Whiskey Glazed Salmon provides a nutritious balance of protein and healthy fats from the salmon fillets, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids essential for heart and brain health. The olive oil and unsalted butter used in cooking add beneficial monounsaturated fats, while the seasonal vegetables contribute fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to support digestion and immune function. Your meal also includes small amounts of sodium and sugars from the brown sugar and soy sauce in the glaze, so moderation is key to maintaining a balanced diet. Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley enhances the dish with additional vitamins A, C, and K, contributing to overall nutritional value.
Storage
Store leftover Whiskey Glazed Salmon in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavor. Refrigerate the salmon within two hours of cooking and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. Reheat gently in a nonstick skillet or oven to preserve the caramelized whiskey glaze and tender texture of your salmon fillets.
Variation or Alternatives
For variation, substitute whiskey with bourbon or dark rum to add a different depth of richness to the glaze. You can also swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. To enhance the smoky flavor, consider using smoked sea salt instead of regular sea salt. You might want to cook the salmon on a cedar plank over indirect heat on a grill to infuse a subtle woodsy aroma into your meal.
Allergies
Whiskey Glazed Salmon contains common allergens such as fish and soy, which may cause reactions in sensitive individuals. The whiskey glaze includes ingredients like brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika that might also trigger allergies or sensitivities. You should inform the kitchen of any specific allergies before consuming this dish to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
Yard House's Whiskey Glazed Salmon menu is celebrated for its perfectly balanced blend of smoky whiskey and sweet glaze, enhancing the tender, flaky salmon. The dish offers a harmonious combination of savory and subtly sweet flavors, paired with fresh seasonal vegetables, making it a satisfying and healthy entree. You will appreciate the rich sauce that complements the salmon without overpowering its natural taste. Trying to make this copycat recipe at home allows you to replicate a restaurant-quality meal tailored to your taste preferences.