Salmon skin (just like salmon itself) is packed with nutrients like vitamin B and omega-3 fatty acids, but eating the scaly outer layer of a fish isn't for everyone. Luckily, getting skin off salmon isn't a tricky endeavor, so long as you have the right tools and know what you're doing. That's where we come in! Here, we'll share a step-by-step guide for removing the skin from your salmon, as well as a few tips and tricks to keep in mind as you handle the fish.
There are a few techniques regarding how to get skin off salmon. As you can guess, some methods are easier than others, and the one you choose depends on factors such as your skill level, the amount of time you have, and how you intend to serve the fish.
This technique involves pouring some boiling water directly onto the salmon skin, and removing the skin once it has cooled. This method is a favorite of many novice home cooks, as it's easy and doesn't require you to use a sharp knife. However, it does require additional cookware, and takes more than a few minutes to complete.
To remove the skin from a piece of salmon using this method, boil a cup of water and place the salmon skin-side up on a wire rack that's directly above a baking dish. Then, slowly pour the boiling water directly onto the salmon skin. Wait for the water to cool, and gently pull the salmon skin away from the fish.
If you'd rather not use boiling water or a knife, you can try this method, which involves separating the skin from the salmon once the fish has been cooked. This method takes a little finesse, and can get a little messy if you coated or marinated your salmon. Plus, if award-winning food presentation is what you're after, this technique may not be the best choice.
To remove the skin from a piece of salmon once it has cooked, place the salmon skin-side up on a plate or cutting board. Using a fork, gently pull the skin off the fillet.
This is the simplest and most efficient way to remove skin from a piece of salmon, and it's the method most commonly used by professionals, including private chef Cara Silman. Though this method requires a bit of practice and patience, Silman notes that it's "the easiest method" to employ, and is best done with a flexible knife, such as a fillet knife.
For step-by-step instructions on how to remove the skin from salmon using a knife, keep reading.