Who doesn’t love a good salmon dish? Salmon, and seafood in general, has its own unique and wonderful taste that can be set off in so many different ways. There are many recipes and methods you can use to cook it and so many seasonings to top it off. Lemon and herbs being a traditional favorite, or maybe some Cajun spice. Either way, the right seasoning and vegetables can set off any salmon dish. But what else is a must have for every household? A slow cooker, of course! I am in love with my slow cooker. You can make anything from pasta to the perfect beef stew. It is my favorite winter time meal maker. Just imagining the smell of a good pot roast wafting through my home is enough to make my mouth water. Not to mention if you buy the right one, you can simply prep and start it and let it do its own thing until the timer switches off. The food is always tender and full of flavor, vegetables and meat alike.
Can you make salmon in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Slow Cookers are amazing because they take the time to slowly cook the meal, soaking in all the flavors and making the meat soft and savory. The main difference I’ve noticed with fish though, you should use a lining of some kind (like parchment paper) so the fish doesn’t fall apart before hitting your plate. Since most fish are flaky and soft already, they could stick to the pot or just break apart while trying to remove it from the pot. I feel cooking fish of any kind in a slow cooker really brings out the flavors. Adding the right citrus, broth or herbs and letting it all cook slowly, it really creates a bold and delicious flavor.
With salmon, you can use the slow cooker to cook in bulk or maybe just one or two filets at a time. It all depends on you and the needs of the moment. But it is important to note that not all slow cookers are ideal for your fish cooking dreams. I’ve noticed it is easier or at least more beneficial to use a 6 quart slow cooker. Unless you are only cooking small portions for one, a larger pot will provide plenty of room for everything you need to add, with out crowding to much and smashing up the fish, or other ingredients. A good example of this, and our top recommendation, is this stainless steel, programmable crock-pot. This Crock-Pot brand slow cooker has a digital timer to help you keep track of how long it’s cooking and automatically switches to warm when the cooking time is reached. It is also perfect for transporting to family dinners, tailgates, or other gatherings. It has both handles and a lid lock with rubber seal to keep it from spilling. The stoneware is even removeable to help with cleaning and storage. And it is dishwasher safe. Its sleek stainless steel also looks really nice, which makes for a great kitchen appliance in quality and in appearance. Perfect for those fish dinners or any dinner really.
Another good slow cooker option, is the BELLA (14124) 6.5 Quart Programmable Searing Slow Cooker with Locking Lid, Chrome. This one is a bit pricier but it is a 6.5 quart, making it the perfect size. It is a bit different from your traditional slow cooker. This slow cooker features a 30 minute to 20 hour digital countdown timer with 8 pre-set cooking times & temperatures. When it’s done cooking it automatically shifts to warm to keep food ready to serve. This lightweight cooker is easy to move around the kitchen & features a locking lid to seal in food & flavor.
Slow cookers are an amazing addition to any home. They can make even the dullest meal flavorful and tender. Salmon can be a tricky dish to tackle but I believe that with the right slow cooker and just the right amount of herbs and seasoning, your salmon meal, or any meal really, will come out perfect for the whole family.
VIDEO: BEST Slow Cooker Salmon (and how to serve it!)
by Nicki Sizemore