Gravlox Recipe
Learn how to make traditional Gravlox at home with just a few ingredients! This easy Scandinavian recipe results in silky, flavorful, and perfectly cured salmon—no smoking required.
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g fresh salmon fillet, skin-on, deboned
- 2 tbsp coarse sea salt
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp black peppercorns crushed
- 1 bunch fresh dill chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest optional
- 1 tbsp vodka or aquavit optional, for extra flavor
- For Serving Optional:
- Rye bread or crispbread
- Mustard-dill sauce
- Capers and pickled onions
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Rinse the salmon fillet under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Check for pin bones and remove them using tweezers.
- Step 2: Make the Cure Mix
- In a bowl, combine salt, sugar, crushed black pepper, and lemon zest (if using).
- Chop fresh dill and set aside.
- Step 3: Cure the Salmon
- Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface.
- Sprinkle half of the salt-sugar mixture on the wrap and top with half of the dill.
- Place the salmon skin-side down and cover it with the remaining cure mix and dill.
- If using vodka or aquavit, drizzle it over the salmon.
- Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a shallow dish.
- Step 4: Press and Refrigerate
- Put a heavy plate or small pan on top of the wrapped salmon to apply gentle pressure.
- Refrigerate for 24 to 48 hours, flipping the salmon every 12 hours.
- Step 5: Rinse and Serve
- After curing, unwrap the salmon and rinse off the excess cure under cold water.
- Pat dry with a paper towel and slice thinly at an angle.
- Serve with rye bread, mustard sauce, and garnishes of your choice.
Notes
The longer you cure the salmon, the more intense the flavor will be.
Store gravlox in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5–7 days.
Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months in a sealed bag.
Store gravlox in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5–7 days.
Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months in a sealed bag.