Salmon Steak in Caramel Sauce Vietnamese Ca Kho
Dive into the bold and savory world of Vietnamese flavors with this mouthwatering Salmon Steak in Caramel Sauce, or Cá Kho. This recipe reimagines the traditional cá kho tộ with succulent salmon steaks simmered in a rich, glossy caramel sauce infused with fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and shallots. The balance of sweet and savory flavors is elevated by the optional hint of red chili for a spicy kick. The technique of crafting a golden, homemade caramel base captures the signature depth of Vietnamese cuisine, while the tender salmon soaks up the sauce for maximum flavor. Perfectly paired with steamed jasmine rice, this dish brings authentic Vietnamese home cooking straight to your table in just 40 minutes. Whether you're a fan of classic Asian recipes or seeking to try something new, this elegant yet approachable dish will leave your taste buds craving more!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces salmon steaks
- 3 tablespoons white sugar
- 0.5 cup water
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 2 whole thinly sliced shallots
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1 whole red chili (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 4 servings steamed jasmine rice
Instructions
Pat the salmon steaks dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides of the salmon with a pinch of salt and black pepper, then set aside.
In a small saucepan or skillet over low heat, melt the sugar gently to form a caramel. Stir occasionally, and once the sugar turns a deep amber color, carefully add the water bit by bit (it will bubble vigorously). Stir until the caramel is dissolved and then remove from heat.
Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet or deep frying pan over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and minced garlic, stirring frequently, until fragrant and golden brown, about 2 minutes.
Carefully pour the prepared caramel sauce into the pan with the shallots and garlic. Add the fish sauce, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
Gently place the salmon steaks into the sauce in a single layer. Spoon some sauce over the fish and add the optional red chili for extra heat. Lower the heat to medium-low.
Cover the pan and let the salmon simmer for 10-12 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the steaks to ensure they absorb maximum flavor.
Uncover the pan and allow the sauce to reduce to a slightly thick, sticky consistency, about 5 minutes longer. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary (add a touch more fish sauce for saltiness or a pinch of sugar for sweetness).
Once the salmon is cooked through and glazed with the sauce, remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions.
Serve the salmon steaks hot over steamed jasmine rice, spooning extra caramel sauce over the top for enhanced flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
633 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 27.3 g | 35% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.5 g | 27% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 83 mg | 28% | |
| Sodium | 905 mg | 39% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 58.9 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.9 g | ||
| Protein | 35.5 g | 71% | |
| Vitamin D | 15.7 mcg | 79% | |
| Calcium | 60 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 1.6 mg | 9% | |
| Potassium | 804 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
