Salmon Candy Recipe in Dehydrator or Oven

Salmon Candy Recipe in Dehydrator or Oven – A Sweet, Smoky Delight

Salmon candy, also known as candied salmon or Indian candy, is a traditional treat originally popularized in the Pacific Northwest. Often made with wild salmon, especially sockeye or king, it features a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors. While salmon candy is traditionally smoked, you can make a delicious version right at home using a dehydrator or your oven. This method enhances the fish’s natural richness and creates a shelf-stable, protein-rich snack that’s perfect for hiking, entertaining, or enjoying with cream cheese on crackers.

### Salmon Candy Recipe in Dehydrator or Oven - What Is Salmon Candy?

Salmon candy consists of salmon strips that are brined in a sweet-savory mixture and then slowly dried or smoked. The result is a chewy, glossy, almost jerky-like fish that’s sticky with maple syrup, honey, or brown sugar. It’s a favorite in indigenous communities and among salmon lovers because of its deep umami and caramelized edges.

### Salmon Candy Recipe in Dehydrator or Oven - Choosing the Right Salmon

For salmon candy, choose wild-caught salmon like sockeye, coho, or king for the best flavor and firm texture. Skin-on fillets are preferred, as the skin helps hold the strips together during drying. If you’re using farmed Atlantic salmon, be sure to trim off any excess fat, as it can affect the final texture.

###Salmon Candy Recipe in Dehydrator or Oven - Ingredients for Homemade Salmon Candy

* 2 to 3 pounds fresh salmon fillet, skin-on

* 1/2 cup brown sugar

* 1/3 cup kosher salt

* 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey

* 1 tablespoon soy sauce

* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

* Water to cover during brining

### Step-by-Step Instructions

#### 1. **Prepare the Salmon**

Cut the salmon into strips about 1-inch wide and 3 to 4 inches long. Keep the thickness even so they dry uniformly. If your fillet is especially thick, you can slice it in half lengthwise to make thinner strips.

#### 2. **Salmon Candy Recipe in Dehydrator or Oven - Make the Brine**

In a large bowl or zip-top bag, mix the brown sugar, salt, soy sauce, pepper, cayenne, and enough water to dissolve the mixture and cover the salmon. Stir well until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.

#### 3. **Brine the Salmon**

Add the salmon strips to the brine and refrigerate for 6 to 12 hours. The longer the brine, the more flavorful and cured the salmon will be. Stir occasionally to ensure even soaking.

#### 4. **Rinse and Dry**

After brining, remove the salmon strips and rinse briefly under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat them very dry with paper towels and place them on a rack. Let them air-dry uncovered in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours. This helps form a tacky surface called a pellicle, essential for the candy glaze to adhere well during drying.

#### 5. **Apply the Maple Glaze**

Brush each piece with maple syrup or honey. This gives the salmon its candy-like sheen and a hint of sweetness that complements the saltiness of the brine.

### Drying in a Dehydrator

Preheat your dehydrator to 145°F (63°C). Arrange the salmon strips skin-side down on the dehydrator trays, making sure they don’t touch. Dry for 4 to 6 hours, checking after 3 hours for doneness. The fish should be firm, slightly tacky, and not wet. You want a chewy, jerky-like texture with a shiny finish.

### Drying in an Oven

Preheat your oven to the lowest setting (usually 170–200°F or 75–95°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a wire rack on a baking tray. Place the salmon strips skin-side down. Prop the oven door open slightly with a wooden spoon to allow moisture to escape. Bake for 3 to 4 hours, turning the strips halfway through. When done, they should look glazed and feel dry but flexible.

### Salmon Candy Recipe in Dehydrator or Oven - Storage

Let the salmon candy cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage. Vacuum sealing is ideal if you plan to make a large batch.

### Salmon Candy Recipe in Dehydrator or Oven - Serving Ideas

* Enjoy as a high-protein snack on the go

* Serve on a charcuterie board with cheese and crackers

* Crumble over salads for a smoky protein boost

* Pair with cream cheese on rye toast

* Add to rice bowls for a sweet-savory twist

###Salmon Candy Recipe in Dehydrator or Oven - Final Thoughts

Homemade salmon candy is a unique and rewarding way to preserve salmon. Whether you use a dehydrator or your oven, the key is a good brine, slow drying, and that final maple glaze. The result is a chewy, sweet-savory treat that’s unlike any other snack. Try it once, and you may never go back to store-bought jerky again.