GRAVLAX / CURED SALMON RECIPE

GRAVLAX / CURED SALMON RECIPE is a easy Scandinavian recipe that serves 4. 200 calories per serving. Recipe by Yussi Weisz on YouTube.

Prep: 24 hrs 20 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 24 hrs 35 min

Cost: $18.20 total, $4.55 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 kilogram Salmon Fillet (skin on, pin bones removed, fresh)
  • 100 grams Granulated Sugar (fine granulated)
  • 100 grams Kosher Salt (coarse, non‑iodized)
  • 1 teaspoon White Pepper (ground)
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
  • 2 tablespoons Vodka (40% ABV, neutral flavor)
  • 1 small Beet (grated or juiced, about 2 tbsp, for color)
  • 30 grams Fresh Dill (loosely packed, chopped)
  • 1 roll Plastic Wrap (for tightly wrapping the fish)
  • 2 tablespoons Capers (rinsed, for garnish)
  • 4 pieces Radish (thinly sliced, for garnish)
  • 2 pieces Scallions (thinly sliced, for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for drizzling before serving)

Instructions

  1. Make the cure

    In a mixing bowl combine the sugar, salt, white pepper and black pepper. Add the vodka and beet juice, then stir until the mixture is slightly damp. Fold in the chopped dill.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Coat the salmon

    Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. Place it skin‑side down on a sheet of plastic wrap. Evenly spread the cure mixture over the flesh, pressing gently to adhere. Sprinkle a little extra dill on top if desired.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Wrap and weight the salmon

    Wrap the coated salmon tightly in the plastic wrap, sealing the edges. Poke a few small holes through the wrap with a toothpick to let excess liquid escape. Place the wrapped fillet on a tray and set a heavy pan or canned goods on top.

    Time: PT5M

  4. First curing period

    Transfer the tray to the refrigerator and let the salmon cure for 12 hours.

    Time: PT12H

    Temperature: 4°C

  5. Flip and continue curing

    After 12 hours, remove the weight, unwrap, flip the fillet, re‑wrap, and return the weight. Cure for another 12 hours (total 24 hours).

    Time: PT12H

    Temperature: 4°C

  6. Finish and slice

    Remove the salmon from the wrap, discard any excess cure, and pat the flesh dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, slice the salmon thinly on a bias, cutting against the grain.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Plate and serve

    Arrange the slices on a serving board, drizzle with extra‑virgin olive oil, and garnish with capers, radish slices, scallions and parsley. Serve with rye bread, crackers, or alongside a cheese platter.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
200
Protein
20g
Carbohydrates
5g
Fat
12g
Fiber
0g

Dietary info: Gluten-Free, Paleo-friendly, Keto-friendly

Allergens: Fish (salmon), Alcohol (vodka)

Last updated: April 18, 2026

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GRAVLAX / CURED SALMON RECIPE

Recipe by Yussi Weisz

A modern take on classic gravlax: fresh salmon cured with equal parts sugar and salt, a splash of vodka, beet juice for a vibrant pink hue, and plenty of dill. After 24 hours of refrigeration under weight, the salmon is thinly sliced and served with capers, radish, scallions, parsley and a drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil. Perfect for brunch, cocktail parties, or a sophisticated snack.

EasyScandinavianServes 4

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Source Video
24h 25m
Prep
0m
Cook
2h 56m
Cleanup
27h 21m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$18.20
Total cost
$4.55
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Make the cure
  • Coat the salmon
  • Wrap and weight the salmon
  • Finish and slice

Safety Warnings

  • Handle raw fish with clean hands and utensils to avoid cross‑contamination.
  • Keep the curing salmon refrigerated at all times (≤4°C).
  • Use a very sharp knife; cut away from your body.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of gravlax in Scandinavian cuisine?

A

Gravlax originated in the Nordic countries as a way to preserve salmon using salt, sugar, and dill. The name means “buried salmon,” referring to the traditional method of burying the fish in the sand above the tide line to cure. Today it is a beloved appetizer served at celebrations, brunches, and smorgasbords across Scandinavia.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of gravlax in Sweden versus Norway?

A

Swedish gravlax often includes a touch of aquavit or vodka and is served with mustard‑dill sauce, while Norwegian versions may add juniper berries or use a higher dill ratio. Both regions use the same basic cure of salt, sugar, and dill, but flavorings differ according to local spirits and herbs.

cultural
Q

How is gravlax traditionally served in Denmark?

A

In Denmark, gravlax is typically sliced thin and arranged on rye bread or crispbread, topped with a creamy mustard‑dill sauce called “hovmästarsås,” and garnished with capers and fresh herbs. It is a staple on the Danish “smørrebrød” open‑face sandwich.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is gravlax traditionally associated with in Scandinavian culture?

A

Gravlax is popular at midsummer festivals, Christmas feasts, Easter brunches, and wedding receptions throughout Scandinavia. Its elegant appearance and easy preparation make it a go‑to dish for both everyday meals and special celebrations.

cultural
Q

What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for classic gravlax, and what are acceptable substitutes?

A

The core ingredients are fresh salmon, coarse salt, granulated sugar, fresh dill, and black pepper. Traditional recipes may use aquavit or vodka; if unavailable, dry white wine or gin work as substitutes. Beet juice is optional for color but can be replaced with beet powder or a pinch of red food coloring.

cultural
Q

What other Scandinavian dishes pair well with gravlax?

A

Gravlax pairs beautifully with rye bread, crispbread, boiled potatoes, pickled cucumbers, and a creamy mustard‑dill sauce. It also complements other Nordic appetizers like smoked herring, cheese platters, and lingonberry jam.

cultural
Q

How has gravlax evolved over time in modern Scandinavian cuisine?

A

Modern chefs experiment with new flavorings such as citrus zest, tea‑infused cures, or exotic herbs, while still respecting the classic salt‑sugar‑dill base. Presentation has also become more artistic, using vibrant beet‑colored cures or plating on slate boards.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making gravlax at home?

A

Common errors include using too much salt, not weighting the fish enough, and curing for too short a time, which results in a dry or unevenly flavored product. Always keep the fish refrigerated, use a balanced 1:1 salt‑sugar ratio, and apply a heavy, even weight for the full 24 hours.

technical
Q

Why does this gravlax recipe use vodka instead of aquavit?

A

Vodka provides a neutral alcohol base that helps dissolve the sugar and salt while adding a subtle moisture without overpowering the salmon’s flavor. Aquavit can be used for a more traditional taste, but vodka is more widely available and lets the dill and beet color shine.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Yussi Weisz specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Yussi Weisz focuses on simple, modern home‑cooking tutorials that blend classic techniques with creative twists, often featuring quick‑prep meals, seasonal ingredients, and visually appealing presentations.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Yussi Weisz's approach to Scandinavian cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Yussi Weisz emphasizes minimal equipment, clear step‑by‑step visuals, and practical tips like using vodka for quick curing, making traditional Scandinavian dishes like gravlax accessible to home cooks who may not have specialty ingredients or tools.

channel

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