Nestled in the serene landscapes of Denmark lies the quaint village of Ål, where time seems to stand still amidst lush greenery and meandering streams. Discover the picturesque beauty of this hidden gem as you wander through its cobblestone streets lined with colorful timber houses. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature as you explore the surrounding forests and meadows, or embark on a leisurely stroll along the banks of the nearby lakes. Experience the warmth of Danish hospitality as you indulge in local delicacies at charming cafes and eateries. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Ål offers a delightful escape into the heart of Denmark's idyllic countryside.

Ingredients:

• 500g fresh eel (skin removed and filleted)
• 1 liter water
• 100g sea salt
• 100g brown sugar
• 2 bay leaves
• 5 whole black peppercorns
• Applewood chips for smoking

Instructions:

1- Begin by preparing the brine. In a large pot, combine water, sea salt, brown sugar, bay leaves, and black peppercorns. Stir well until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved.

2- Place the eel fillets into the brine, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the pot and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the eel to soak up the flavors.

3- After brining, remove the eel fillets from the liquid and pat them dry with paper towels. Allow them to air dry for about 30 minutes to form a pellicle on the surface, which helps the smoke adhere to the fish.

4- Meanwhile, prepare your smoker. Heat it to a temperature of around 80-100°C (175-210°F) and add the applewood chips for smoking.

5- Once the smoker is ready, place the eel fillets on the grill or smoker racks, leaving some space between them for the smoke to circulate.

6- Smoke the eel fillets for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 65°C (150°F).

7- Once smoked to perfection, remove the eel fillets from the smoker and let them cool slightly before serving.

8- Serve the smoked eel as a delicacy, either warm or chilled, alongside traditional Danish accompaniments such as rye bread, pickled vegetables, and a tangy mustard sauce.

9- Enjoy the rich, smoky flavor of this authentic Danish delicacy, known as Ål, with family and friends as a delightful appetizer or main dish.

Nutritional Values:

Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown for the ingredients used in the smoked eel recipe:

Fresh Eel (per 100g):

• Calories: 184 kcal
• Protein: 18.4g
• Fat: 11.5g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g
• Cholesterol: 92mg
• Sodium: 85mg

benefits:

• Rich source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Contains healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
• Provides essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus.

Sea Salt (per 100g):

• Calories: 0 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g
• Sodium: 38,758mg

benefits:

• Provides essential sodium, which is necessary for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction.
• Helps enhance the flavor of food without adding calories.
• Can aid in preserving food and inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria.

Brown Sugar (per 100g):

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 98g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 98g
• Sodium: 28mg

benefits:

• Adds sweetness and flavor to dishes.
• Contains trace amounts of minerals such as potassium, calcium, and iron.
• Provides a quick source of energy due to its carbohydrate content.

Bay Leaves, Peppercorns, and Water: These ingredients contribute minimal to no calories, protein, fat, carbohydrates, or other nutrients.

benefits:

Bay Leaves and Peppercorns:

• Bay leaves add a subtle, aromatic flavor to dishes and are believed to have digestive benefits.
• Peppercorns contribute a hint of spiciness and are rich in antioxidants, which may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Water:

• Essential for hydration and maintaining bodily functions.
• Helps regulate body temperature, transport nutrients, and remove waste products.
• Supports overall health and well-being.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as cooking methods and specific brands of ingredients used. Additionally, the nutritional values for the final smoked eel dish may vary depending on factors such as portion size and any additional ingredients used in serving.