How Long to Cook Smoked Salmon in Air Fryer?

Air frying has become very popular lately. The method involves placing food into a basket or tray inside the oven and then cooking it at high temperatures using hot air instead of oil or butter. This makes the food healthier and tastier.

Salmon is a delicious fish in itself. However, cooking it is a kind of a hassle. But no anymore with an air fryer. You can cook smoked salmon in just 10 to 13 minutes with an air fryer. Dig into learning more about smoked salmon cooking time.

Understanding Smoked Salmon

Each filet of salmon should be seasoned on both sides. Season filets with salt and pepper and place them into the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes at 380 degrees Fahrenheit. A fork can be used to check for doneness. 145 degrees Fahrenheit is the ideal internal temperature for salmon, and it should flake easily. If not, continue cooking until done.
Before we discuss cooking times, it's essential to understand what smoked salmon is. It's a preparation of salmon, typically a fillet that has been cured and then either cold or hot smoked. Due to its curing process, smoked salmon is often already cooked before it reaches your kitchen.

However, heating it up can enhance its flavors and make it even more delicious. That’s where the air fryer comes into play.

Preparation Steps

Before placing your smoked salmon in the air fryer basket, there are few steps you need to follow:

1. Preheat your air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
2. While waiting for the preheating process, season your smoked salmon with preferred spices or herbs.
3. Place parchment paper at the bottom of your basket before adding the fish; this will prevent sticking and help with clean-up later on.
4. Arrange your seasoned fish on top of parchment paper without overlapping them.

Cooking Time for Smoked Salmon

Now that we've covered preparation let's talk about cooking time.

Since most commercially available smoked salmons are already cooked during smoking process itself; they don't require much time in an air fryer - just enough time for them to heat through properly while enhancing their smoky flavor.

Typically, cooking a piece of thin sliced smoked salmon takes around 6-8 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, if you have a thicker piece of smoked salmon, it might take up to 10-12 minutes.

Remember, the goal is not to cook the salmon but rather to warm it up and give it a slightly crispy exterior. Overcooking can result in a dry and tough texture.

Checking for Doneness

To ensure your smoked salmon is perfectly heated without being overcooked, check its internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. The ideal internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C), according to the U.S Food and Drug Administration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended cooking time for smoked salmon in an air fryer?

The recommended cooking time for smoked salmon in an air fryer can vary depending on the thickness of your fish and the model of your air fryer. However, a general guideline would be to cook it at 375°F (190°C) for about 7-10 minutes. It's important to remember that smoked salmon is already cooked, so you're essentially just heating it up and adding a bit of crispiness. Always check the internal temperature with a food thermometer to ensure it has reached at least 145°F (63°C), which is the safe minimum internal temperature.

How long should I preheat my air fryer before cooking smoked salmon?

Preheating your air fryer before cooking smoked salmon can help achieve a more even cook and better texture. Most experts recommend preheating your air fryer for about 5 minutes at the same temperature you plan to cook your fish at, which in this case would be around 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when you put your fish into the basket, it starts cooking immediately rather than slowly warming up.

Can I adjust how long I cook my smoked salmon in an air fryer based on personal preference?

Absolutely! The suggested time of around 7-10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) is just a guideline and can certainly be adjusted based on personal preference or specific dietary needs. If you prefer your fish slightly more crispy or well-done, feel free to leave it in for an extra minute or two - but always keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Is there any way to speed up how long it takes to cook smoked salmon in an air fryer?

While using an air fryer does generally speed up cooking times compared to traditional methods, it's important not to rush the process when cooking smoked salmon. The suggested time of 7-10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) is already quite quick, and rushing it could result in unevenly cooked or burnt fish. If you're in a hurry, consider slicing your salmon into thinner pieces before cooking as this can help speed up the process.

How long should I let my smoked salmon rest after cooking it in an air fryer?

After removing your smoked salmon from the air fryer, it's recommended to let it rest for about 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish and results in a more flavorful and moist piece of salmon. However, since smoked salmon is already cooked prior to being put in an air fryer, this resting period isn't as crucial as with other types of meat or fish.

Conclusion

Smoking salmon is one of the most delicious ways to prepare this tasty fish. It's easy to cook and requires minimal effort. With an air fryer, you can have perfectly cooked smoked salmon in less than half the time of traditional methods. I hope this article has cleared out all your doubts about the timing of smoked salmon.So next time you're craving for some smoky goodness of salmon, don't hesitate to pull out your air fryer! It's sure to deliver perfectly warmed-up smoked salmon with minimal effort and maximum flavor.