Crispy, smoky salmon jerky meets creamy, tangy, and fresh toppings for a bold, indulgent breakfast or brunch.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 2)
For the Salmon Jerky
- 2 salmon fillets (skinless)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Pickled Red Onions
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or white)
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Bagel Assembly
- 2 bagels, sliced and toasted
- 4 tablespoons cream cheese
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 1–2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: lemon zest or squeeze of lemon juice
🔪 Instructions
1. Prepare the Pickled Onions (Quick Method)
- In a bowl, mix vinegar, warm water, sugar, and salt.
- Add sliced onions and stir.
- Let sit for at least 15–20 minutes (longer = more flavor).
2. Make the Salmon Jerky
Option A: Oven Method
- Preheat oven to 90°C (200°F).
- Slice salmon into thin strips.
- Mix soy sauce, maple syrup, paprika, garlic powder, pepper, chili flakes, and lemon juice.
- Coat salmon strips well and let marinate for 20–30 minutes.
- Place on a lined baking tray.
- Bake for 1.5–2 hours until dry, slightly crispy, but still tender inside.
Option B: Pan-Crispy Shortcut
- Heat a pan over medium heat.
- Cook marinated salmon strips for 5–7 minutes, flipping until caramelized and slightly crispy.
3. Assemble the Bagels
- Toast the bagels until golden and crisp.
- Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on each half.
- Add cucumber slices for crunch.
- Top with warm or cooled salmon jerky.
- Add pickled red onions and capers.
- Sprinkle fresh dill and black pepper.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon or zest (optional).
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve immediately while the bagel is warm
- Pair with fresh juice or coffee
- Add a soft-boiled egg for extra richness
💡 Tips for Best Flavor
- Slice salmon thinly for the perfect jerky texture
- Don’t skip the dill—it brings freshness that balances the richness
- Let onions pickle longer for deeper tang
- Use high-quality salmon for best results
✨ Why You’ll Love It
- Bold smoky + creamy + tangy flavor combo
- Perfect balance of textures (crispy, creamy, crunchy)
- Great for breakfast, brunch, or even a light lunch
- Feels gourmet but easy to make at home
