The bold, complex flavors of Gochujang meet the delicate texture of salmon in this quick and easy Korean Glazed Salmon baked in foil. This 20-minute recipe is not just fast—it’s also a powerhouse of spicy, sweet, and umami-rich goodness that caramelizes beautifully under the broiler for a finish that looks and tastes gourmet.
Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this salmon dish requires minimal cleanup and is endlessly versatile. Serve it with fluffy coconut rice, sautéed spinach, or a simple cucumber salad to keep the spotlight on the addictive glaze. It’s time to elevate your salmon game, one foil packet at a time!
Full Recipe:
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4 salmon fillets (or one whole fillet, about 2 lbs)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 tablespoons garlic paste (or minced garlic)
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¼ cup honey
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2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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3 scallions, sliced (green onions)
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Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
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Cooking spray or a bit of oil for foil
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Place a sheet of foil on a baking sheet and lightly coat with cooking spray or brush with oil.
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In a small bowl, whisk together garlic paste, honey, Gochujang, soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil until smooth.
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Season both sides of salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
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Lightly brush foil with a bit of the glaze where you’ll place the salmon. Place salmon fillets skin-side down.
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Pour ¾ of the glaze over the salmon and brush to coat evenly.
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Close the foil around the salmon, leaving a 1–2 inch gap at the top center for steam to vent.
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Bake for 12 minutes.
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Remove from oven, open the foil fully. Turn broiler on high.
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Broil salmon for 2 minutes to brown slightly. Brush with remaining glaze and broil for an additional 1–2 minutes to caramelize.
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Garnish with sliced scallions and chopped parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 18 minutes | Total Time: 23 minutes
Kcal: 419 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Korean Glazed Salmon in Foil
Korean Glazed Salmon in Foil is a dish that masterfully combines bold, spicy, and sweet Korean flavors with the delicate, buttery texture of baked salmon. This dish is a standout for both its vibrant taste and its ease of preparation. Gochujang, the Korean chili paste at the heart of the glaze, adds a deep umami richness that elevates salmon to new heights. Whether you’re new to Korean cuisine or a seasoned fan, this recipe is a delightful entry point into Asian fusion cooking.
Baking the salmon in foil creates a perfectly tender and juicy filet every time, while also locking in all the flavorful glaze. Even better, this method minimizes cleanup, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or dinner parties when you want to impress without the stress. This dish is nutrient-dense, visually stunning, and utterly delicious, which explains why it’s rapidly becoming a favorite among home cooks and food bloggers alike.
What Makes This Dish Special
There are countless salmon recipes available, but what makes this Korean Glazed Salmon unique is the use of Gochujang in the marinade. Gochujang is a fermented red chili paste that’s a cornerstone of Korean cooking. It offers a well-balanced combination of heat, sweetness, and savory umami flavors. When combined with other glaze ingredients like honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil, it transforms into a mouthwatering sauce that clings beautifully to the salmon.
Another standout aspect is the foil baking method. Cooking salmon in foil traps moisture, ensuring the fish remains succulent and flakey. It also concentrates the glaze flavors, allowing them to seep into the flesh of the salmon. The final broil step caramelizes the glaze, enhancing its sweetness and giving the dish a glossy, irresistible finish.
Health Benefits of Korean Glazed Salmon
This dish doesn’t just taste incredible—it’s also good for you. Salmon is one of the best natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for supporting heart health, reducing inflammation, and promoting brain function. It’s also high in protein, vitamin D, and B vitamins, making it a powerhouse addition to any diet.
The glaze, while flavorful, uses natural ingredients like honey and rice vinegar instead of heavy sauces or creams. Gochujang, though spicy, typically contains a modest amount of sugar and is used in moderation. Compared to other richly flavored dishes, this one is surprisingly light and balanced nutritionally. Plus, the portion control is easy—simply serve one fillet per person with a side of vegetables or rice.
Understanding Gochujang: The Star Ingredient
Gochujang is a staple in Korean cuisine, made from chili powder, fermented soybeans, glutinous rice, and salt. It has a thick, sticky consistency and a deep red color. Its fermentation process adds complexity and depth, similar to the way miso or soy sauce develops umami over time. It’s spicy, but not overwhelmingly so, and its sweetness makes it extremely versatile.
In this recipe, gochujang is tempered by the honey and balanced with the salty soy sauce and tangy vinegar. This creates a glaze that is bold but not overpowering—suitable even for those who typically avoid spicy food.
Gochujang is widely available in Asian grocery stores and even many mainstream supermarkets. A small container goes a long way, and it keeps well in the refrigerator. Once you start cooking with it, you’ll likely find yourself reaching for it regularly.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
Korean Glazed Salmon in Foil pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides. The classic combination is steamed white rice or coconut jasmine rice, which absorbs the glaze and balances the spicy-sweet profile of the fish. For a healthier twist, serve it with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
On the vegetable side, sautéed spinach, steamed bok choy, or crispy roasted broccoli are excellent choices. The brightness of lightly pickled cucumbers or a crisp cabbage slaw can add a refreshing contrast. For a more complete Korean-inspired meal, you can also serve it with kimchi, kimbap, or seasoned bean sprouts.
This dish also works well in a more casual setting, flaked over a rice bowl or wrapped in lettuce leaves with a dab of extra sauce, sliced radishes, and shredded carrots for a healthy DIY wrap.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its versatility. It’s quick and easy enough to make on a busy weeknight, yet sophisticated and flavorful enough to serve to guests. The foil presentation makes it feel a bit like opening a gift—adding a fun and surprising element to the dining experience.
Because the glaze is so universally appealing, even those who don’t typically enjoy fish may find themselves converted. It’s also great for meal prep: you can cook several fillets at once, store them in the fridge, and reheat gently for lunch or dinner the next day.
It’s also worth noting that this dish scales well. Whether you’re cooking for two or a crowd, the foil method and glaze quantities can be easily adjusted without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Make It Your Own: Variations and Tips
While the original recipe is beautifully balanced, it also lends itself to customization:
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Extra Sauce: If you’re a sauce lover, you can easily increase the quantities of the glaze and reserve some for drizzling over rice or veggies.
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More Heat: Want it spicier? Add a dash of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes.
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Citrus Twist: A squeeze of lime or orange juice can add a zesty brightness.
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Ginger Add-In: Though the original recipe omits ginger, a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger can add another dimension to the glaze if desired.
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Grill Option: On warmer days, wrap the foil packets and cook them on the grill instead of in the oven for a slightly smoky finish.
Make sure not to skip the final broil step. This quick high-heat exposure caramelizes the sugars in the glaze and enhances the flavor profile, giving the salmon a sticky, restaurant-quality finish.
Storage and Leftovers
This dish holds up well for leftovers. If stored in an airtight container, the salmon will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. It can be gently reheated in the microwave or oven, though it’s best not to overheat, as that can dry out the fish.
Leftover Korean Glazed Salmon can also be repurposed into new meals:
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Flaked into a salad with greens, avocado, and sesame dressing.
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Mixed into a rice bowl with roasted vegetables and extra sauce.
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Stuffed into a wrap or pita with slaw and sriracha mayo.
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Turned into salmon cakes by mixing with breadcrumbs and egg, then pan-frying.
Conclusion
Korean Glazed Salmon in Foil is the perfect marriage of flavor, simplicity, and nutrition. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can deliver a stunning main course that’s bursting with bold Korean flavors. The sweet and spicy glaze is irresistible, and the foil packet method ensures a perfectly moist and tender salmon every time.
This dish is a great example of how international flavors can be easily incorporated into everyday cooking. Whether you’re introducing your family to Korean cuisine for the first time or adding to your weeknight recipe rotation, this is a meal that satisfies on every level.
From its vibrant color to its unforgettable taste, Korean Glazed Salmon in Foil is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of flavor, culture, and the joy of home-cooked meals. Once you try it, there’s a good chance it’ll earn a permanent spot in your regular meal lineup.