Thawing salmon is an important step to ensure that it cooks evenly and safely. There are several methods you can use to thaw salmon, but the gold standard method is to defrost it in the refrigerator overnight. This method is safe and reliable, as long as your fridge is kept at a safe temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
To begin, make sure your salmon is properly packaged to prevent any leakage or contamination in your fridge. If it’s not already wrapped, you can place the salmon in a sealed plastic bag or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This will help protect it from any odors or cross-contamination in the fridge.
Next, find a spot in your fridge where the salmon can sit undisturbed. It’s best to place it on a plate or a shallow dish to catch any potential drips. This will also help prevent any contact with other foods in the fridge.
The time it takes to thaw salmon in the fridge will depend on the size of your cut. Generally, smaller fillets or portions will thaw more quickly than larger whole fish. On average, it can take anywhere from 12 to 24 hours for the salmon to fully defrost.
If you’re unsure how long it will take, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and give it a full 24 hours. This will ensure that the salmon is completely thawed and ready to cook.
During the thawing process, it’s important to note that the salmon may release some liquid. This is normal and can be easily drained off once the fish is fully thawed. Just be sure to handle the salmon carefully to prevent any unnecessary leakage or spills in your fridge.
Once the salmon is fully thawed, it’s important to use it within a day or two to ensure its freshness and quality. If you’re not planning to cook it immediately, you can safely store the thawed salmon in the fridge for up to two days.
Thawing salmon in the fridge overnight is the gold standard method for safe and reliable thawing. It may take anywhere from 12 to 24 hours, depending on the size of your cut. Remember to properly package the salmon, place it on a plate or dish in the fridge, and use it within a day or two after thawing. Enjoy your delicious, thawed salmon in your favorite recipes!