Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSalute Italian RestaurantSmoked Whole Salmon Filet - 10lbs Recipe

Smoked Whole Salmon Filet - 10lbs Recipe

Time6h
Serves12

Make Smoked Whole Salmon Filet - 10lbs Recipe in just 6h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

Brine Ingredients

Smoking Ingredients

Method

Brining the Salmon

  1. 1

    Prepare the Brine

    In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, kosher salt, and water. Stir until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.

  2. 2

    Add Flavorings

    Add the black peppercorns, crushed garlic cloves, and chopped fresh dill to the brine. Mix well.

  3. 3

    Brine the Salmon

    Place the whole salmon filet in a large, non-reactive container and pour the brine over it. Ensure the fish is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.

Preparing to Smoke

  1. 4

    Remove from Brine

    After brining, remove the salmon from the brine and rinse it under cold water to remove excess salt and sugar. Pat dry with paper towels.

  2. 5

    Prepare Smoking Setup

    Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before smoking. Prepare your smoker according to the manufacturer's instructions.

  3. 6

    Preheat the Smoker

    Preheat the smoker to a temperature of 225°F (107°C).

  4. 7

    Add Lemon Slices

    Place lemon slices on top of the salmon filet for added flavor during smoking.

Smoking the Salmon

  1. 8

    Place Salmon in Smoker

    Once the smoker is ready, place the salmon filet on the smoker rack, skin side down.

  2. 9

    Add Wood Chips

    Add the soaked wood chips to the smoker box or directly on the coals, depending on your smoker type.

  3. 10

    Smoke the Salmon

    Close the smoker and let the salmon smoke for approximately 4 to 6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Serving

  1. 11

    Remove and Rest

    Once done, carefully remove the salmon from the smoker and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.

  2. 12

    Serve

    Slice the smoked salmon filet and serve it with your favorite accompaniments, such as crackers, cream cheese, or fresh herbs.

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