Discover the perfect Gravlax recipe, featuring homemade cured salmon infused with fresh dill. This traditional Scandinavian dish is served with a tangy mustard sauce and accompanied by crusty bread. Learn how to make this delicious, elegant appetizer at home with our easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients:

- 1 lb (450g) salmon fillet, skin-on

- 1/4 cup coarse sea salt

- 1/4 cup sugar

- 1 tbsp black peppercorns, crushed

- 1 bunch fresh dill, chopped

- 1 tbsp mustard seeds (optional)

For the Mustard Sauce:

- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard

- 2 tbsp sugar

- 2 tbsp white wine vinegar

- 1 tbsp olive oil

For Serving:

- Fresh bread or rye bread

- Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Cure:

  - In a small bowl, mix together the sea salt, sugar, and crushed black peppercorns. If using mustard seeds, add them to the mixture.

Cure the Salmon:

  - Place the salmon fillet on a large piece of plastic wrap, skin-side down. Evenly sprinkle the salt mixture over the top of the salmon. Scatter the chopped dill over the salmon.

  - Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and place it on a baking sheet. Put a weight (like a can or a small plate) on top to press the salmon down. Refrigerate for 2 to 3 days, turning the salmon once a day.

Prepare the Mustard Sauce:

  - In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, sugar, white wine vinegar, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Serve:

  - After the curing time, unwrap the salmon and rinse off the cure mixture under cold water. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Slice the salmon thinly against the grain.

  - Serve the Gravlax with fresh bread or rye bread and a dollop of mustard sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Gravlax as a sophisticated and delicious appetizer!

Nutritional values

Salmon Fillet (1 lb/450g)

  - Calories: 206 kcal

  - Protein: 22g

  - Fat: 13g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

  - Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health.

  - Good source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins such as vitamin D and B12.

Coarse Sea Salt (1/4 cup)

  - Calories: 0 kcal

  - Sodium: 5900 mg (for the whole quantity)

Benefits:Used for flavor and preservation; however, high salt intake should be monitored to avoid health issues like high blood pressure.

Sugar (1/4 cup)

  - Calories: 200 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 50g

Benefits:Adds sweetness; use in moderation to avoid excess calorie intake.

Black Peppercorns (1 tbsp)

  - Calories: 16 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 4g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion.

Fresh Dill (1 bunch)

  - Calories: 15 kcal (for 1/2 cup)

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:Rich in vitamins A and C, and has antioxidant and digestive properties.

Mustard Seeds (1 tbsp, optional)

  - Calories: 15 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 1g

Benefits:Contains antioxidants and can add flavor.

For the Mustard Sauce:

Dijon Mustard (1/2 cup)

  - Calories: 10 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:Low in calories and can enhance flavor without added fats.

Sugar (2 tbsp)

  - Calories: 100 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 25g

Benefits:Adds sweetness; use in moderation.

White Wine Vinegar (2 tbsp)

  - Calories: 0 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:Adds tanginess and can aid in digestion.

Olive Oil (1 tbsp)

  - Calories: 120 kcal

  - Fat: 14g

  - Saturated Fat: 2g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:Rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

For Serving:

Fresh Bread or Rye Bread

  - Calories: 70-80 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 12-15g

  - Protein: 2-3g

  - Fat: 1-2g

Benefits:Provides carbohydrates and fiber; rye bread may offer additional nutrients.

Lemon Wedges (optional)

  - Calories: 2 kcal (per wedge)

  - Carbohydrates: 0.6g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:Adds vitamin C and can enhance the flavor of dishes.