9+ Homemade Smoked Salmon Brine Recipes to Try Today!

Smoked salmon is a culinary delight that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. But have you ever thought about making your own brine at home? With just a few ingredients, you can create mouthwatering flavors that will elevate your smoked salmon game to a whole new level!

Sweet & Savory Maple Brine

Maple Turkey Brine from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 1 h 35 min Total Time: 1 h 35 min.

Maple and Brown Sugar Turkey Brine from The Spruce Eats

Rating: 4.2. Ingredients: 1 h 30 min Total Time: 1 h 30 min.

Maple-Brined Pork Loin from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 9 h 20 min Total Time: 9 h 20 min.

If you’re looking for a brine that combines sweetness and a hint of smokiness, this maple brine is for you. With pure maple syrup, brown sugar, and a touch of soy sauce, it adds a delightful depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich taste of salmon. The sweetness of the maple syrup caramelizes during smoking, creating a glossy, irresistible finish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

This recipe is popular because it balances sweetness with savory elements, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a complex flavor profile. Plus, who doesn’t love the idea of using maple syrup in their brine? It’s like having a mini taste of breakfast with your seafood!

Herb-Infused Lemon Brine

Lemon and Herb Chicken Brine from Sparrows + Lily

Rating: 5. Ingredients: Brown sugar, rosemary, sage, garlic powder, bay leaves

How to Make a Citrus Herb Brine from The Wooden Skillet

Ingredients: Orange, lemon, black, mustard seeds, bay leaves Total Time: 12 hr 15 min.

Herb Infused Preserved Lemons from SoupAddict

Rating: 5. Ingredients: Meyer lemons, glass jars, sea salt, fresh rosemary, bay leaf Total Time: 10 min.

Imagine the zesty freshness of lemon paired with fragrant herbs – that’s what you’ll get with this herb-infused lemon brine. Featuring fresh dill, thyme, and a splash of lemon juice, this recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a bright and aromatic flavor in their smoked salmon. The herbs not only flavor the fish but also create a lovely aroma as it smokes.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup kosher salt
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns

This brine is loved for its refreshing qualities, making it a fantastic choice for summer gatherings or brunches. The combination of citrus and herbs gives the salmon a lightness that feels perfect for warm weather, and it’s a surefire way to impress your friends!

Spicy Ginger Soy Brine

Garlic Ginger Soy Braised Chicken from The Maker Makes

Ingredients: Chicken thighs, black sesame seeds, soy sauce, sriracha, ginger Total Time: 55 min.

Chinese Master Brine Sauce (Lushui 卤水) from Curated Kitchenware

Rating: 5. Ingredients: Sand ginger, dark soy sauce, soy sauce, star anise, rock sugar

Asian Ginger Grill Marinade from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, raw sesame seeds, rice vinegar Total Time: 45 min.

For those who enjoy a little kick, the spicy ginger soy brine will be your new best friend. With fresh ginger, soy sauce, and a hint of chili flakes, this brine packs a flavorful punch. The warmth of the ginger and the umami from the soy create a deliciously bold taste that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

This recipe is perfect for the adventurous eater who loves to experiment with flavors. The spicy kick adds a unique twist to the traditional smoked salmon, making it a standout dish at any gathering. Serve it with a side of wasabi cream for an extra layer of flavor that’s simply irresistible!

Classic Brown Sugar & Dill Brine

Pickle Brine Chicken from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: 1 h 25 min Total Time: 1 h 25 min.

Dill Pickles from Love and Lemons

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 11 min Total Time: 11 min.

Smoked Salmon with a Brown Sugar and Dill Dry Rub from Eating Better

Ingredients: 1 h 15 min Total Time: 1 h 15 min.

Sometimes, simplicity is best. The classic brown sugar and dill brine combines just a few ingredients to create a timeless flavor. The sweetness of the brown sugar complements the natural richness of the salmon, while the dill adds a fresh, herbal note that’s simply delightful.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

This recipe is cherished for its straightforward approach, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. The classic combination of flavors brings out the best in the salmon, allowing its natural taste to shine through. Plus, it’s a great starting point for anyone new to smoking fish!